Most servers around the world run Linux. The same goes for almost all supercomputers. That’s astonishing in a capitalist world where absolutely everything is commodified. Why can’t these big tech companies manage to sell their own software to server operators or supercomputers? Why is an open, free project that is free for users so superior here?
You answered your own question:
If you bought windows for the hundred or so servers you manage how much is that going to cost you up front and then again every time Microsoft decides to just end support and roll out a new OS? How much work does it take to manage those licenses and make those updates? And what are you getting in return for that additional expense?