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Putin Orders Russian Move to GNU/Linux

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Re: Putin Orders Russian Move to GNU/Linux

#21

There have been numerous attempts to move to open source in Russia. Most of them failed. Example: Linux in schools. 1. Teachers don't know much about linux 2. Computers aren't fast enough to work with GNOME (which is default in most packages they install) 3. Kids don't get it. Open office is the only familiar-looking application there. 4. They won't be able to apply their skills anywhere add: 5. Microsoft makes some…

>>Microsoft makes some generous discounts. Simply because something is worth more than nothing.

Don't forget: The important part is to not open a niche for the use of an open O/S, where it can grow from.

(A historically good way to get really good rebates from MS has been to start talking about Linux. That might be what is going on here.)

Re: Putin Orders Russian Move to GNU/Linux

#23
post #19

The world is moving to Linux. Slow but sure. Asia is moving to Linux.

Stats? Cite? The use of Linux may be increasing, but enough to qualify Asia as "moving to Linux?" Piracy of MS products is common throughout Asia, regardless of the occasional bootleg clampdown theater.

Re: Putin Orders Russian Move to GNU/Linux

#24
post #5

Bill Gates is probably getting onto a plane for Russia about now, to make Putin an "philanthropic" offer he can't refuse. That's usually how it goes.

The other side of the coin is not a squeaky clean one either. Expect various "system integrators" companies to have serendipitous family ties with those government officials who are responsible for writing checks.

Re: Putin Orders Russian Move to GNU/Linux

#25
post #8

Putin already has enough money from gas'n'oil, he doesn't give a shit. And it's not about money, it's about power. Talking bout piracy - there is majority of illegal software in business, universities and schools. Not to mention homes. I'm talking about Windows, Office, Photoshop, Games. Even the biggest Russian social network (vKontakte) is currently largest unlicensed mp3/video storage. I always wondered, what they…

What exactly do you bribe a guy estimated to have 40 billion in liquid assets with? It's funny because I am sure a corrupt Russian politician must have a strange existential crisis when they get that much money. It's like that guy who built the $300 million dollar custom yacht because you literally can't spend that much money on a house if you tried. There's this website EnglishRussia.com where they have regular feat…

> ...that guy who built the $300 million dollar custom yacht because...

Because it is one of very few ways of moving the money out of the country. Having 300M in Russia does not exactly compare to having 300M in a Swiss bank, and Russia has severe capital export restrictions. They were established by none other than Putin himself, so rest assured they are very well enforced. One can still hoard a huge pile of money, but it will stay in the country unless you manage to find a way to spend it abroad on yourself. Say, by building a yacht.

Re: Putin Orders Russian Move to GNU/Linux

#27
post #23
post #19

The world is moving to Linux. Slow but sure. Asia is moving to Linux.

Stats? Cite? The use of Linux may be increasing, but enough to qualify Asia as "moving to Linux?" Piracy of MS products is common throughout Asia, regardless of the occasional bootleg clampdown theater.

Because its free its difficult to track stats. Many are not connected to the Internet in Asia. China has mandated that all Internet cafe's use Red Linux. Schools are also changing to Linux. Type "linux India" into Google news and you will see evidence. Ms are common but that will change. Many were burned on vista, many will not upgrade to seven and when XP runs out, some more will go to Linux.

Re: Putin Orders Russian Move to GNU/Linux

#28

Earlier quoted context omitted.

What exactly do you bribe a guy estimated to have 40 billion in liquid assets with? It's funny because I am sure a corrupt Russian politician must have a strange existential crisis when they get that much money. It's like that guy who built the $300 million dollar custom yacht because you literally can't spend that much money on a house if you tried. There's this website EnglishRussia.com where they have regular feat…

> ...that guy who built the $300 million dollar custom yacht because... Because it is one of very few ways of moving the money out of the country. Having 300M in Russia does not exactly compare to having 300M in a Swiss bank, and Russia has severe capital export restrictions. They were established by none other than Putin himself, so rest assured they are very well enforced. One can still hoard a huge pile of money,…

Um, I'm pretty sure there are better ways to transfer 300M out of country without making everyone notice it.

Re: Putin Orders Russian Move to GNU/Linux

#30
post #5

Bill Gates is probably getting onto a plane for Russia about now, to make Putin an "philanthropic" offer he can't refuse. That's usually how it goes.

Not exactly. More like the IIPA filing more complaints against Russia and keeping them on the Special 301 list: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special_301_Report#Complaints_b... Bribing in Russia is a home game, so no go there. Putins plane might have a malfunction though.

Are you seriously suggesting that Microsoft will attempt an assassination of a country leader? Or did I misread your comment?
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