Dell, HP won't use Windows 8 secure boot to ban Linux
updated 04:40 pm EDT, Wed November 2, 2011
Some perceive anti-Linux plot
Dell and HP will reportedly allow users to choose wether or not to use the secure boot option that will be available in Windows 8. Although Secure Boot is marketed as a way to help improve device security, the feature is viewed by some Linux advocates as a conspiracy to block alternative operating systems from being installed on computers designed for Windows 8.
“Dell has plans to make SecureBoot an enable/disable option in BIOS setup,” a Dell spokesperson told ZDNet.
HP representatives voiced a similar take on the matter, claiming the company "will continue to offer its customers a choice of operating systems."
Despite the cries of foul play, Microsoft executive Steven Sinofsky recently pointed out that Secure Boot would not be something the company requires to be utilized by computer manufacturers. In a blog post, the Windows division president also claimed the company's philosophy involves allowing customers to "make decisions themselves."
