Merge Windows Apps Into Linux or Mac

[Donald Darden]

The OpenSource effort to create a Windows-like environment under Linux is called WINE, which presumably stands for Wine Is Not an Emulator.  Whatever it is, it is not a finished product, but there are more advance versions out there to consider as well.

One of these is called CrossOver, and is a product of an outfit that goes by the name of CodeWeaver.  It sells a Standard product for about $40, and a Pro verson for about $70, and what it does is allow you to install and run certain windows applications and plug-ins under Linux.  It does not require a Windows License, but at issue are some unresolved questions about how well it works with other windows software, and what of device drivers that are designed specifically to work under Windows?  I think the answer is obvious - you don't really know, until someone tries, and then you learn from their success or failure.  However, there is mention of a trial version, so perhaps you can make the attempt before you spend your money.  The link is http://www.codeweavers.com/products/.