A profitable Linux Desktop distro? [LWN.net]

A profitable Linux Desktop distro?

Posted Nov 19, 2008 2:49 UTC (Wed) by Frej (subscriber, #4165)
In reply to: A profitable Linux Desktop distro? by dowdle
Parent article: Mandriva reports its 3rd Quarter results

I've been using Linux as my primary desktop OS since 1995 and I love it. I have converted a small handful of folks... but I'm not sure how long Linux on the desktop is going to take. I don't really care what its marketshare is as long as it continues to improve and it works for me. :)

I havent used linux on the desktop for that long (quite a long period of flux before ~2000). But really - i would never dream of persuading anyone to switch, I just don't believe that it's going to work somewhat effortless. I think windows is a better choice for real users. For those who won't scream when a pixel is changed (ie those who bother to changes habbits), I recommend os x.

(Log in to post comments)

A profitable Linux Desktop distro?

Posted Nov 19, 2008 15:49 UTC (Wed) by fb (subscriber, #53265) [Link]

I use Linux since 95 as the grand-parent poster.

FWIW, here is one anecdote for you: I bought a new computer for my
parents. They live at another hemisphere from the one I live.

They have been using Ubuntu for ? 1.5 year now, and have had no real
problems. Sometimes they do have questions ("how to burn a DVD with
photos", "how to make a copy of a DVD with family photos"), we share
desktops (VNC), and I show how to get it done.

There have been small issues (just like they had when running XP
previously). The difference is that instead of bringing the computer to a
local shop, and paying them some bucks; I help them through VNC. (I know
how to run/fix/admin a linux box, but not Windows).

My points are:
1. Linux is suitable for a desktop system. However most people will need
it to be installed for them (as even if they could, they actually won't
bother installing an OS).

2. Desktops present issues. With Linux or WinXP. In that case, folks like
my parents need support assistance. Be the local shop, or the technically
qualified son.

(BTW, the local shop where the computer was bought does provide linux
support, if there is ever need for it.)