Running essential Windows apps on SUSE Linux
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Q:
We are planning to migrate from a Windows desktop to SUSE Linux. We have a group of people working on various projects which involve applications like Visual Basic, Coral Draw, Page Maker etc. Databases include Microsoft Access, Oracle etc.
Please let me know if these applications and databases will work on SUSE Linux.
A:
You will have to run the MS applications on top of either WINE or in a Virtual Machine like VMware. The preferred solution for WINE is Crossover Office from CodeWeavers -- take a look at the application compatibility at http://www.codeweavers.com/site/compatibility/
VMware is a different solution - it runs Windows under a Virtual Machine; all Windows applications will function. There is obviously the issue of cost (VMware + Windows + app licenses) and support within the VM.
Adobe is currently working to support a lot of their apps on top of WINE - Xandros actually supports PhotoShop on Wine on Xandros Desktop.
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