Seems like that ever since the 2.6 version of the Linux kernel has been out, Linux has really started to feel its way into all new markets. Thanks in large part to new options that Dell and others have tried, Linux is going to continue showing amazing growth.

What was the biggest theme to emerge during the 2004 “Year in Linux”? In large measure, it all had to do with the expanded movement of Linux into new environments, ranging from the data center to embedded spaces.

With the Linux kernel 2.6 finally a reality, as of the end of 2003, major hardware makers such as Dell, Unisys, HP, SGI and NEC came out with a slew of announcements in 2004 about high-end server support for Linux.

On the embedded side, Linux started showing up on smaller devices ranging from cellular phones to retail POS systems.

Microsoft took Linux seriously enough to launch an internal tech support initiative, codenamed Mission Critical Microsoft, to help fight the spectre of Linux running on mainframes.