Did Microsoft Pressure Dell to Change Ubuntu Linux Statement?

The VAR Guy saw this coming. On June 10, The VAR Guy was first to report Dell considered Ubuntu Linux safer than Windows. But now, Dell has apparently updated its web site to remove/alter that statement. Linux conspiracy theorists think Microsoft pressured Dell to make the change.

The VAR Guy

June 17, 2010

2 Min Read
Did Microsoft Pressure Dell to Change Ubuntu Linux Statement?

Dell Ubuntu Safer Than Windows

The VAR Guy saw this coming. On June 10, The VAR Guy was first to report Dell considered Ubuntu Linux safer than Windows. But now, Dell has apparently updated its web site to remove/alter that statement. Linux conspiracy theorists think Microsoft pressured Dell to make the change. Is that really the case?

Frankly, The VAR Guy doesn’t know for sure. Our resident blogger has requests for comment out to Dell, Microsoft and Canonical — promoter of Ubuntu Linux.

Revisionist History?

As you may recall, Dell ships Ubuntu on selected U.S. systems. And about a week ago, Dell’s web site (http://www.dell.com/ubuntu) included a top 10 list educating readers about Ubuntu’s strengths. At the time, #6 on the list read:

“6) Ubuntu is safer than Microsoft® Windows® The vast majority of viruses and spyware written by hackers are not designed to target and attack Linux.”

But now, Dell’s Web site has updated that item to read:

“6) Ubuntu is secure According to industry reports, Ubuntu is unaffected by the vast majority of viruses and spyware.”

No need to panic, folks. The VAR Guy purposely took a screen shot (PDF) of the original Dell Web page for safe keeping — just in case Dell somehow felt inspired to remove the Ubuntu vs. Windows safety reference.

If our resident gets a comment from Dell, Microsoft or Canonical, The VAR Guy will be sure to share it in the comments area.

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