Why is Linux a winner when it comes to utility computing?

Nevatia: Utility computing makes hardware less relevant. It doesn't matter if it's proprietary, a mainframe or a commodity Intel box. The operating system doesn't matter either, and that makes Linux a winner. You don't care what you're running as long as you reach your service levels. Utility computing levels the playing field for Linux. Linux promotes commoditization, and it comes out a winner.

I think that Linux makes sense primarily from the licensing cost standpoint. Service levels seem to be very similar. Support issues still weigh in M$ favor. So the big difference is whether M$ will adjust their licensing to compete with Linux in utility computing. As Linux makes inroads and Linux support issues drop, M$ loses its monoply pricing and the easy money. Small businesses is M$ saving grace.