Everyone, it seems, wants it both ways. Computer users who are sick of Microsoft's monopolistic and bullying actions are seeking a viable alternative to Windows, so they naturally turn their attention to Linux. But these same users are accustomed to the Windows graphical interface, the relative ease of Windows installation and the raft of applications available for Windows users. So when they come to Linux, they're expecting the best parts of other operating systems, without any of the drawbacks. They want it both ways.

As does Red Hat Software. On the one hand, Red Hat Software has proven adept at positioning Red Hat Linux as a superior server OS, exploiting the best features of Linux and convincing the corporate world that Red Hat Linux belongs at the center of corporate Internet planning. In addition, Red Hat Software has added a raft of tools that makes installing and configuring Red Hat Linux a much easier task. But Red Hat Software wants it both ways: Red Hat Linux is also positioned as a powerful desktop OS that's a worthy competitor to Windows.

That's why evaluating Red Hat Linux is such a challenge: only Corel and (to a lesser extent) Caldera position their Linux distributions as user-friendly and appropriate for almost any level of user. As a server-based operating system, Red Hat Linux excels on every level. As a desktop operating system, Red Hat Linux must be judged against other Linux distributions as well as Windows and the Macintosh. Is it up to the task? This review should provide you with the information you need to make your own conclusions; ours will be presented at the end.

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