Linuxcare
Linuxcare was a company that provided support and services related to the Linux operating system. Founded in 1998, Linuxcare aimed to offer comprehensive assistance to businesses and individuals adopting Linux, a relatively new and unfamiliar technology at the time.
The company's services included technical support, consulting, training, and certification programs. Linuxcare positioned itself as a one-stop shop for Linux expertise, catering to a diverse clientele ranging from small businesses to large enterprises. They offered various support packages to suit different needs and budgets.
Linuxcare contributed to the growth and adoption of Linux by lowering the barrier to entry for organizations hesitant to embrace open-source software. They provided a crucial layer of support, easing concerns about compatibility, integration, and maintenance.
However, the dot-com bubble burst in the early 2000s significantly impacted Linuxcare's financial situation. The company faced difficulties in achieving profitability and eventually filed for bankruptcy in 2001. Despite its relatively short lifespan, Linuxcare played a significant role in the early commercialization and professionalization of Linux support. The company's efforts helped legitimize Linux as a viable alternative to proprietary operating systems and paved the way for the emergence of other Linux-focused service providers. Following its bankruptcy, elements of Linuxcare were acquired by other companies.