Five crucial things the Linux community doesn’t understand about the average computer user by ZDNet's Adrian Kingsley-Hughes -- Question: Why is it that the average computer user still chooses to spend hundreds of dollars on Windows or Mac when there are countless Linux alternatives that they could download, install and make use of completely free of charge?
In response to that article.
“Despite what you read on websites and blogs, newspapers and magazines, people on the whole aren’t all that dissatisfied with Windows”
So when a user complains about their games or family tree program not working in vista it means nothing? This is a major problem for many people. Software is a major choice when purchasing a platform and being happy. Maybe I am dissatisfied with Windows Vista for now but since I am a contractor reliability has become a major consern for my core business. I had Linux running at one point but abandoned it for Solaris 10 and its file system ZFS.
“In fact, add Mac gains into the equation and the argument that people want open source seems to fall down.”
So what major retail outlet sells Linux? Supports Linux? You should know by now your average user goes to their local computer outlet to buy a system. Many computer stores I know do not have the resources to support Linux.
“Too Many Distro's”
Well I actually agree with that statement. If all those back yard distro makers pooled into the other developments Linux would be better off. Why reinvent the wheel?
“Windows users are having a hard enough time now figuring out whether they should go for Vista Home Basic or Home Premium”
Pfft no they don't most windows users buy OEM and don't care apart from price. Note this is where sales men come in and take your money which they are really good at doing.
“Name me five bits of hardware that lists Linux as a supported system on the box. I’ve just had a look around the office and I can’t find a single thing that lists Linux explicitly”
This is true but any network gear usually now has it. Also what operating system supports the most new hardware out of the box? Linux.
“And how many will eventually give up and install Windows onto them?”
Quite a few. How many will complain at dell why cant they install windows software on it... 90% of them.
“In an age where people find it hard to keep a few control key keyboard commands in their head for any length of time, the idea of switching to a command line system just doesn’t appeal to many people.”
Maybe Linux should stay different and stop having a influx of people that can't be bothered learning their PC.
