Linux users look to attack the desktop

Microsoft is under attack in an area that it has previously called its own – the desktop. Admittedly, the threat is a tiny one now, but a group of Linux enthusiasts is set to change all that. The Desktop Linux Consortium is now ready to go public. The organisation is conducting a review, set to end on 11 August, which will establish how the new body is to be organised. The consortium, which was announced in February, looks to offer support for desktop users who want to adopt Linux. It aims to introduce a range of educational and advocacy initiatives that will enable more people to use Linux on their desktops. "The use of Linux on the Desktop is picking up steam and we are excited to launch the Desktop Linux Consortium this summer to further fuel its growth." said Bruce Perens, executive director of the Desktop Linux Consortium. "I am convinced that Linux is ready for the desktop - now it's time to let the rest of the world know." Linux users who might be interested in joining will be alarmed to discover that the cost of joining is $100 a year and it’s not that members get a lot for the money – the right to elect a couple of members to spend that money and the opportunity to invite open source spokespeople to meetings might seem a poor return for their subscription.