In my (limited) experience, the biggest problem Linux has to overcome is the ease with which new software can be added. I’ve been very pleased with how well plug-and-play works even on older hardware running the CD-ROM based trial distributions, but feel like I’m wandering around blind through obscure directories trying to figure out how to unzip and install something I’ve downloaded. I have found some to be better than others in this regard. Also have run into the lack of drivers, as noted. The other big reason I stay with Windows is the ability to find virtually any kind of utility as freeware, easily installed when needed.
But I really do like Linux!
Sorry, brother bigbob, but I just can't let this pass. These days every modern distribution uses repositories of some kind that contain just about any software you might care to use. For those who can't handle typing 'sudo yum install foo' on a command line can use one of several gui package managers that let you point and click at software you want to install. You don't have to go searching around websites, looking for download links. You don't have to worry about making sure you have the most up-to-date version. You don't have to worry about keeping up with patches or bug fixes, because all of that will then be handled for you automatically.
I don't see how anyone could expect software to be easier to install.
Now, if you have some esoteric package for which there is no pre-packaged file available in the repository, you might have issues, but by and large, most things people want or need are in the repositories.