5 years ago... Linus says Microsoft-Linux battle is slow work

11.08.99: Speaking at the LinuxWorld conference, Linus Torvalds comments that the ongoing battle with Microsoft is slow work.

He also says the Linux operating system, which he invented, is best suited for medium to large businesses.

In addition, Torvalds confirms that the open-source OS will run on Sony's PlayStation 2 video game consoles and says he's working on a wireless Linux application.

11.08.04: Microsoft and Linux are still engaged in battle, with Microsoft's latest tactic being to fight open-source software on legal issues such as patent infringement.

According to a recently leaked memo, HP said that "basically Microsoft is going to use the legal system to shut down open-source software".

Microsoft's not the only one pointing a finger at Linux's potential intellectual property difficulties. Munich's alderman Jens Muehlhaus, who is overseeing the city's switch to the open-source OS, has spotted 50 potential patent problems because of incoming EU legislation. And the Open Source Risk Management Association says Linux may infringe 283 patents.