Is Microsoft ready to pursue Linux in court?

Well, if what is being reported by Fortune Magazine is anything go by, Microsoft is probably giving a hint to the Linux world out there that the party will be over soon. While Microsoft had been saying all along that Linux infringes some of it patents, this is the first time it had come up with specific numbers of those infringements even though the Redmond company will not say which specific patents are violated, yet.

The business world should view this new development with caution. If Microsoft does go ahead and pursue the matter in court, Linux world will definitely suffer to a certain extent. For one, new clients may put a hold on any new Linux purchases until the issue is resolved. However, everyone knows what Microsoft wants. Royalty. But who is going to pay for that? The Linux operating system is not owned by any specific party and is available for free. The consultants who implement Linux do get paid but they don’t own Linux. They definitely will not pay any royalty. That leaves only one interested party… the customer. But will they pay any royalty for using the products that don’t have any owner? Unlikely… but in IT world, anything can happen. It is interesting to wait and see how Microsoft will play this game.

Stay tuned to Gadgetell as more develops.

Read [Information Week]