Novell's GNU/Linux distribution on H-P laptops falls short (compared to other GNU/Linux laptops)

Dell presents a dual-O/S solution, but it uses Novell's SLED, which is not free

As the release of low-cost laptops based on Intel's upcoming Atom processor draws near, Microsoft is getting boxed into a corner. The software company plans to stop selling most Windows XP licenses after June 30, yet most of these low-cost laptops won't be powerful enough to run Vista when they arrive later this year.

Hewlett-Packard today announced its new ProBook series of 14-, 15.6- and 17.3-in. laptops intended to merge business functionality, stylish design cues and a (hopefully) low price tag.

Two companies that pay Microsoft for Linux remain close to Microsoft and fail to attract positive attention

HERE is another reason to avoid Novell's SLED and instead choose an unencumbered GNU/Linux distribution which does not pay for mythical Microsoft patents.

Hewlett-Packard supports and offers only the Microsoft-taxed version of GNU/Linux to prospective users

As Ubuntu popularity grows, more and more students are recognizing the added features and potential savings offered by an Ubuntu laptop. Netbooks and laptops are the students solution to computing because of obvious portability reasons.

There is some encouraging news for GNU/Linux. Dell has expressed satisfaction with its Linux sales and decided to expand its Linux intitiative to new models. Meanwhile, Hewlett-Packard says that it hopes to offer preinstalled Linux on personal computers within a few weeks or months. The distribution of choice is unaffected by Microsoft deals (or ‘tax’)