Summary

The actual number of Linux servers is increasing. What is decreasing is the rate of increase.  The survey done is measuring new hardware sales, thus this measurement might be misguided.

Analysis

Metrics or key indicators sometimes can mislead us into thinking that something is not.  Take for example the IDG Server Report.  Based on the information, Linux is losing market share however what is really happening is that the rate of increase is decreasing on new hardware.

Ok, I understand the need to measure however do we really need this measurement ?

Linux is an operating system that fills a need and keep in mind that there is little left of the Unix market.  Thus, the this metric is reporting this observation. 

At the end of the day, Windows servers will continue and so will Linux.



Ralph Behar consults with leading institutions through GLG

What is a GLG Leader?|GLG Leaders are a separate tier of Council Members with a Council Rank in the top 5%. These GLG Member Program participants are eligible for ongoing, in-depth consultative relationships with GLG clients.

Senior Director IT, OSI SYSTEMS, INC.

 
Analyses are solely the work of the authors and have not been edited or endorsed by GLG.