Beyond Linux: exploring the other kernels out there
A very strong article by Keyto at Polishlinux.org chronicles the author's experiences in installing operating systems that look like your average Linux distribution but are based on, among others, the GNU/Hurd, OpenSolaris, all running the GNOME desktop if possible.
It illustrates how many different ways there are to make a computer do the same thing. Very interesting. I've run the OpenSolaris-based Indiana live CD, and I hope that eventually a free, non-Linux desktop project -- or more than one, for that matter -- gives Linux-based systems the competition that will benefit all of those who work to bring such projects to the many users around the world who have moved beyond Windows.