An absolutely amazing program that I found on linux is working on a version for Mac. The program is called Wine. If you haven’t heard of it or used it, you should. Unlike typical ways of running Windows apps, Wine doesn’t run a full version of Windows. Wine uses a Windows API that is completely non-Microsoft code, to allow implementation of Windows programs.
And Wine’s website illustrates why Wine is so important – and I agree with them. The first issue is one of dependence. When 95% of the world’s computers run on Windows, then you have security and continuance problems. It has been shown repeatedly that our non-diversification of operating systems leads to mass exploitation of security flaws. Also, supply non-diversification is an issue. What if Microsoft decides to go down a technology business model that doesn’t fit with yours. You’re kind of stuck. At least, until something like Wine comes along.
