The Microsoft/Hotmail Debacle (2003)
4 days ago
- #FreeBSD
- #Microsoft
- #Hotmail
- Microsoft allegedly failed to convert Hotmail servers to Windows NT/IIS/Exchange in 1998 after acquiring Hotmail.
- Despite claims, Hotmail continued running on Solaris and FreeBSD for three years before Microsoft published whitepapers advocating migration to Windows 2000.
- The whitepaper contained FUD tactics, including dubious claims like language portability issues as a reason to switch from FreeBSD.
- Observers noted FreeBSD still ran most servers, casting doubt on Microsoft's migration claims and Windows' capability.
- In 2001, Microsoft falsely claimed no FreeBSD servers remained at Hotmail, but a developer proved otherwise.
- A 2002 security breach revealed an internal Microsoft document praising Unix over Windows for Hotmail's needs.
- By 2003, Hotmail's front end ran on Windows 2000, but backend database servers' OS remained undisclosed.