As I was sitting here, upgrading to the latest version of MySQL server, it suddenly struck me how much of a good move it was for Apple to move to the UNIX based OS X. There is just so much flexibility in the OS. And so many free pieces of software.
Sure you can get MySQL, PHP, and Apache for Windows but what about stuff like mail servers?
Recently, I been looking into an alternative to the mail server that I have installed on my Xserve. Currently, I am running Communigate Pro(CGP). When I first licensed CGP I could get 50 mailboxes for $499.00. Late last year the license for CGP went up and now if I want another 50 mailboxes it will cost me $1,199.00. So, I have been looking into the opensource mail servers like Exim and Courier. I'm just amazed how much money I can save...
CGP 50 mailboxes = $1,199.00
Exim/Courier 50+ mailboxes = $0.00
MacAfee AV plug-in for CGP = $399.00 (per year minimum)
Clam AV for Exim/Courier = $0.00
SpamShell MailCatcher plug-in for CGP = $279.00 (per year minimum)
SpamAssassin for Exim/Courier = $0.00
Now, sure the opensource stuff isn't as easy to install and configure as CGP but to save myself $1,877.00 I am willing to learn. All of this wouldn't be possible if Apple didn't move to a UNIX based OS.
Most of this opensource stuff can't even be found on Windows either. Yeah, I could run a Linux server but then I miss out on some ease of use on other aspects of the server.
After considering the points above I can only give Apple a big
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