Windows' opposition is principally Apple Mac and the various flavours of Linux. Apple have taken a rather unique approach and control both the hardware and the operating system that it lives on, and are famouse for their amazing design innovations (think the iPod, the iMac, the older Cube computer). With the latest release of their computer designs, the most important technical difference is that Apple now uses the Intel processor that those in the Windows world have long been familiar with. Still a customised version, but now it is possible to directly compare performance.

Linux continues its own development in leaps and bounds. Linux is available in “distributions”, really just packages of hundreds of standardised components that together provide all the functions that the Oses above do. Which distribution you might opt for is likely to be determined by your Level of Geekness (eg. Ubuntu is aimed at the non-technical masses) but fundamentally there is not much difference between distributions other than how the package is presented and managed.

Both Apple and Linux have been nipping at Microsoft's heels. Microsoft itself has just released its updated version of Windows, called Vista, now officially available to the general public (ie. legally). Upgrading to Vista is not straightforward – you need to determine if your computer can handle the extra workload to run it (unlikely unless you've only just bought it), and then you need to determine which licence type of Vista is best for you (Home, Business, Ultimate, etc.). And it is expensive.

Apple is making somewhat of a resurgence in popularity, thanks to its great looks, stunning performance, and the fact that you take it out of the box, switch it on, and everything just works. Apple's promotional slogan is exactly that - “It just works”.  Their advertising campaign underscores the ability to do everything Windows can (including running Windows itself!) only more reliably, more quickly, more easily. Some 40% of purchasers of Apple Macs are said to be Windows converts.

Time for Microsoft to worry, particularly given Linux advocates also chiming in with the call for people to evaluate Linux instead of going through all the hassle and expense of upgrading to Vista. Although big businesses are not likely to be swayed from Windows, smaller players and home users are much more likely now to check out the alternatives rather than simply follow the Microsoft behemoth as usual.

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