Linux: by geeks, for geeks.
It’s improving, but still has a core requirement that the user be able to deal with “oops, oh, just type this obscure incantation...”
I keep trying to like it, and keep giving up. As a programmer for 35 years, this does not bode well for the average user. I can make it work, but the unrelenting brokenness and tinkering just means its not ready for the general public.
Here is an example from what the Linux community thinks is normal on the "Ubuntu Absolute Beginners Forum"
Now, I can do this sort of thing for my own computer as I've been running the DOS command line and compiling programs since the '80s.
But am I going to recommend Linux to my dozens of non-techie friends who are therefore going to call me to recompile their systems every time they plug in a new piece of unrecognized hardware? Not enough days in the year to mess with that......
This statement indicates that you pretty much do not know what you are talking about.
My then-9-year-son installed Ubuntu on his computer while I was out of town. He's 18 now and still using the same installation, over the course of several upgrades.
He's a music major. I have *never* provided him any support.
I agree. I used Linux years ago, but finally switched back to XP. I'd like to use Linux again and give it a try every year, but end up disappointed for the reasons you mention (plus one of the Redhat "spins" tried to steal my email password last year). Usability and compatibility are still terrible in the Linux world, and the Linux fanbois are hostile to anyone who points that out. I'm jumping straight to Win 8 this year. For $40 it can't be beat and it's easy enough to make the interface behave like Win 7 or XP.
A Linux live cd still makes a great rescue disk, though.
You’re right, they’re wrong. IT professionals who actually have to deal with Support and with clients would never recommend Linux to people who can barely master a consumer OS.
That's me.
I use my personal computer for Word, Excel, e-mail, Facebook, and my university applications - nothing too esoteric.
How long can I hold on to Windows 7 if Windows 8 is that bad? Usually a lousy release is followed later by a good release that fixes all the screw-ups of the earlier release.
***AND/OR***
Can I just keep Windows 7 until Linux becomes easier to transition over to?
Having tried every major (about 10) Linux distros, and trying to get the same functionality as i get in Windows as a power user, that is much my opinion, though i am sympathetic to those who like it, and think it has potential.
But as you can buy a W/8 upgrade now (till Jan. 31) for about 43.00 (w/ taxes) and just install the Classic Shell freeware if you do not want metro, then maybe less will switch right now.