Saturday, September 02 2006 @ 06:21 AM EDT Contributed by: sde
NetBSD runs on more hardware platforms than any other UNIX® derivative due to smart design decisions and a commitment to portable code. Whether you're porting an operating system to a proprietary embedded system or looking for stability and compatibility across hardware platforms in the lab, NetBSD and its open license is a compelling alternative to Linux® and the GNU Public License (GPL).
One feature listed on the NetBSD Web site is that the operating system is hype free. I can do without hype, but generating some buzz for this operating system that is often overlooked certainly wouldn't hurt.
NetBSD has an interesting architecture, which is often taken for granted and rarely commented on outside Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD) circles. The system's well thought-out design allows for wide hardware support, a small footprint, stability, and security. NetBSD's unique features include a new paradigm for handling device drivers and other interesting innovations.
These design decisions and commitment to source code, which not only works but works right, have helped NetBSD lay claim to being the most portable UNIX® derivative in existence. It particularly excels in embedded systems, but you should also consider it as a compelling alternative to more mainstream servers, desktops, and laptop operating systems.
