Unix vs. Windows: A Competitive History and Future

Microsoft Windows and Unix are two major classes of operating systems. The Unix computer operating system has been in use for more than three decades. Originally it rose from the ashes of a failed attempt in the early 1960s to develop a reliable timesharing operating system. A few survivors from Bell Labs did not give up and developed a system that provided a work environment described as "of unusual simplicity, power, and elegance".

Since the 1980's Unix's main competitor, Windows has gained popularity due the steadily increasing power of micro-computers with Intel-compatible processors (CPUs), which is the platform that Windows was designed for. In recent years, however, a new version of Unix called Linux, also specifically developed for micro-computers, has emerged. It can be obtained for free and is therefore a lucrative choice for individuals and businesses on a budget.

On the server front, Unix has been closing in on Microsoft’s market share. In 1999, Linux scooted past Novell's Netware to become the No. 2 server operating system behind Windows NT. In 2001 the market share for the Linux operating system was 25 percent; other Unix flavors 12 percent. On the client front, Microsoft is currently dominating the operating system market with over 90% market share.

Because of Microsoft’s aggressive marketing practices, millions of users who have no idea what an operating system is have been using Windows operating systems given to them when they purchased their PCs. Many others simply are not aware that there are operating systems other than Windows. You, on the other hand, are here reading this article, and probably trying to make conscious OS decisions for home use or for your organizations. In that case, you should at least give Unix your consideration, especially if the following is relevant in your environment.