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Businesses around the world may not realize this, but they absolutely depend on Linux and open-source. Without those two pieces of technology, we wouldn't have nearly the services and sites we now enjoy.
But Linux isn't just a good option for servers and technology stacks. Linux is also viable as a desktop operating system. Why? It's not only one of the most reliable platforms available, it's also very secure… and cost-effective.
Also: 5 command line backup tools every Linux user should use for desktops and servers
Yeah, that ol' bottom line will grab your attention every time.
But which distributions should you consider? The choice can be a bit daunting, especially when you consider most Linux distributions will save you money and help protect your assets (think "data"). Let's take a look at the list I've put together.
1. Ubuntu
If there's one Linux distribution I would recommend to small businesses over any other, it's Ubuntu. Why this distribution? It's simple: not only is Ubuntu free and secure, but it also offers some of the best hardware recognition of any operating system available.
That might sound like a bag of magic beans, but it's true. I've plugged all types of peripherals into a Ubuntu system, only to find it automatically detects them and works with them (no drivers needed). Sure, there are occasions when I have to search out a driver for a particular piece of technology, but I rarely have problems with this.
Even better, I can use the Hardware Enablement (HWE) kernel and get even more hardware support.
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