Re:What the heck is a channel? (Score 1)

A channel is the path a product takes from its manufacturer to its final purchaser (like a car selling through a dealer). "The Channel" usually refers to the vast array of resellers, distributors, integrators and consultants who build technology solutions for customers. Good channel partners help a manufacturer handle over-demand in boom times and drum up business in lean times. The question was whether Linux (being 'free') could develop a channel of folks that would go to customers and say, "Hey, you should try Linux and I'll set it up for you!" The answer turned out to be yes.