P3.4. Why Use Linux?
Before diving into the common architecture found on most Linux appliances, we should answer the question, "Why use Linux on an appliance?" While the specific arguments vary, we've found the following to be true for appliances that we've built.
P3.4.1. Availability of Source Code
The availability of source code makes it possible to customize the operating system for a particular appliance's needs. Such customization is not possible when using a proprietary, closed source operating system.
P3.4.2. Range of Hardware Supported
The Linux kernel supports a wide range of processors, from low-end embedded processors used in consumer electronics to high-end 64-bit processors used in super-computers. For example, Linux runs on Marvell's ...
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