On: Foreign Linux: Run Linux binaries on Windows without drivers or modification

[kikki]

So it's cool, and a lot of people might see it as a bad thing that if this took off could potentially bring Linux users back to Windows. I personally think it could do the reverse though and encourage people to try Linux. If they enjoy using some small selection of tools that work on Windows (presumably all CLI tools) then they might be convinced to give a full distro a go. Interesting concept though and I really hope it works out.

[spurgu → kikki]

I think it would mainly be used by Linux users forced to use Windows for some reason (at work, for example).

[sunilkumarc → spurgu]

I totally agree with you. Some of us who really like Linux are forced to use Windows at work. This project is really going to help a lot of people :)

[wampus → sunilkumarc]

But if you can run this, you can run VirtualBox, which is a much safer alternative (and simpler, if a live ISO meets your needs).

[usefulcat → wampus]

But not equivalent for some use cases. Like, say I want to use 'find' (not windows find.exe) to find files on a Windows filesystem.

[leni536 → usefulcat]

What I typically miss on Windows is "rsync".

[cgh → wampus]

Unfortunately, a vm solution won't work with certain vpns, such as Cisco's. I know firsthand as I've tried it.

[copperx → cgh]

Forcing me into a non-admin Windows account at work is bad enough. If I had a to tolerate a VM on top of that I would start bringing my laptop.

[aaronem → kikki]

Linux already does plenty to bring Linux users back to Windows. What’s this going to hurt?