Earlier this week Intel made public its plans to improve support for the Linux platform, in a move that clearly shows the increased importance given to the Windows rival in the last few years. Intel has committed to release Linux versions of essential supporting software at about the same time it releases Windows versions.

The change was a response, in part, to criticism that Intel hasn't released software or specifications to let Linux use the wireless networking technology of Intel's Centrino mobile computer technology. Centrino has been on the market for nearly one year, but at present, Linux users can use the wireless technology only by wrapping a Linux interface around a Windows software module.