Re: [tlug] Japan Times Article on Linux

[Charles Muller <acmuller@example.com>]

A. Sajjad Zaidi wrote:

> Not a bad article overall, but he says a lot of things that aren't
> entirely fair. He writes about how hard it is to install an alternative
> OS and setup things like email, even for advanced users.

This is true. There is a degree of exaggeration on some details, as you might see from a
newbie who has never used anything before except for Windows. For example
"ten hours to download on DSL." I don't know what kind of connection he has,
but on my DSL I got all five RH 8.0 images in three hours. Also in the
course of installation "something always goes wrong." But he does end on a
positive note, and I think that his advice for uninitiated users with
moderate computing abilities to have access to someone with experience is
appropriate. I'd rather see people who try to install Linux be prepared for
a few difficulties than to see them think they can fly through without
problems, and end up being disillusioned.

What I liked best about the piece was his inclusion of reasons for choosing
Linux of the "moral reason offered by a growing handful of Windows
dissenters, who have turned to another operating system in virtual protest
of Bill Gate's iron grip on today's PC."

I'm one of these.

Chuck
 
---------------------------
Charles Muller  <acmuller@example.com>
Faculty of Humanities,  Toyo Gakuen University
Digital Dictionary of Buddhism and CJKV-English Dictionary 
[http://www.acmuller.net]
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