First, let me admit that I’ve been spoiled by the linux way, I’m incredibly lazy now because of it.
However, this can only be a rule of thumb. The linux way isn’t as completely unified as the author would have you believe. But it is immensely more unified than the windows way is.
Example of the disunification: Yum, Apt, Yast, Redcarpet, up2date, synaptic......... Now granted, some of these are front ends, some are back ends. Which complicates things even more.......... somewhat.
Now, an example of the unification:
I go to yum and type update, I get my update for firefox(Browser) gimp(graphics) openoffice, kaffeine(media player) bzflag(game) freeciv(another game) plus my security updates plus my new feature updates plus updates for everything else.
All with one single action.
It would take me 10-30 minutes to round up all of that stuff from various websites and initiate the downloads. It’s not incredibly hard mind you, but as I said I’m spoiled. :-)
Those interested in trying Linux have choices. Ubuntu can be installed within Windows without risk and booted (Search Wubi). You can download an Ubuntu ISO file and burn it to a CD and use the CD to live boot Ubuntu from the CD/DVD drive. Live boot does not install, you can sample what Linux is like first and see if your hardware and wireless card works. Install on your hard drive is also an option with the same CD.
For a complete start to finish preparation, intall, usage for a beginner I used this book. It covers just about everything you need. I recommend a complete install to enjoy Linux the most.
***First, let me admit that I’ve been spoiled by the linux way, I’m incredibly lazy now because of it.***