Hard evidence that Linux is more stable than windows?

Question

I am trying to convince management to switch from SQL Server, to MySQL on Linux. This is very much a windows house, and management seems very wary of using Linux.

Can anyone provide hard facts showing Linux is more stable, higher performance than windows for running a DB server? And any other advantages?

Also, nobody here knows how to administer a Linux server, to the resistance is sociological as well as technical.

Thanks!

Answer 1

You first need to convince yourself :)

Have a read here http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-10878_11-1054385.html

Answer 2

Well, nowadays I don't think it's about stability anymore - that argument was a big marketing tactic for Linux. The biggest difference is the fact that Windows + SQL Server is not free, and actually quite expensive.

I think your best option would be to get Ubuntu installed on a machine and let them have a play with it and see how they like it.

But your biggest argument would be price...

And I do sympathise with you - I'm not a fan of Microsoft, and agree that going Linux + MySQL is better, but like others said, they are already used to what they have, so it'll be hard to convince them otherwise.

Also, not sure how big this company is, but if it's big, then they won't care about the money saved...

Answer 3

Facts

1. It is a 'windows' house
2. They have good experience with MS Windows and SQL Server
3. They have no experience in *nix administration

Conclusion

Forget it. Even if you found prove that Linux+MySQL is more stable or more performant, then there would still be enough good arguments to not change the environment.