Microsoft is suggesting that they will pursue legal action against Linux users/distributors due to alleged patent infringement. The patent war between Microsoft and Linux users/publishers is just starting. Microsoft has never sud for infringement until now (offensive use of patents), but the present circumstances as well as the latest deal between Microsoft and Novell suggest that we will see an attack of Microsoft over Linux, in court.

Microsoft claims that free software like Linux, which runs a big chunk of corporate America, violates 235 of its patents. It wants royalties from distributors and users. Users like you, maybe.

Fortune Magazine has a strong documented article about this. I recommend you have a look.