I think a BSD based alternative is definitely a possibility. The problem that I see is that Red Hat is pretty close to the industry standard in Linux, with partners like Oracle, Dell, and Veritas. Red Hat, in my experience, is a little easier to work with and find answers for problems than other distros. Also, FreeBSD lacks a journaled file systems which Linux does have. I really like Debian and use it on one of my home machines, but ever since their servers were compromised a few weeks ago I've had nothing but problems updating my system via apt-get (I haven't had time to adjust my deb repositories). Just my two cents. Rob Humphrey Systems Administrator MSU Health Information Technology A118 Clinical Center (517) 355-6531 -----Original Message----- From: Koos, Missy [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Sent: Wednesday, December 03, 2003 4:22 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Loss of Red Hat as a free OS Is anyone considering going with a BSD based system? FreeBSD isn't based on any specific company so it would be immune from something like RedHat is pulling. Its also secure, stable, fast and has a Linux compatibility library. OpenBSD is another great OS and is (In many people's opinion) the most secure in existence. For those who aren't willing to go to a non-Linux system, what about Debian? I just cant see paying for something that has always been, and should always be, free. Just wondering. :) Missy Koos Webmistress & Database Developer Student Affairs & Services 517.355.9510