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The case discusses the open source movement and the evolution of Linux in the early 1990s, which changed the computing world. The case focuses on the open source movement and the reasons why big companies like IBM, Hewlett-Packard (HP) and Sun extended hardware support to Linux. The case also discusses the initial response of Microsoft towards Linux and the gradual change in response. The case ends with the prospects of Linux and problems that might crop up for Linux in the future. The case is developed to enable students to: (1) examine the background that led to the emergence of the open source movement and its accelerating growth and acceptance by the industry; (2) identify the reasons for the success of Linux, its suitability and application space, and its impact on the computing world; (3) explore the participation of companies like IBM, HP and Sun in extending their support to Linux; (4) understand and examine the reasons for the shift in Microsoft''s strategy towards Linux; and (5) understand the future prospects of the open source movement, and the nature of problems Linux might face in the future. The case is aimed at MBA/PGDBA students and is intended to be part of the strategy and general management curriculum. The teaching note does not contain an analysis of the case.