Linux: Still Not Ready for Prime Time on the Desktop (Yes on the Network)

It seems like its been forever since I've seen news about Linux. Unfortunately, although its had several years to mature, it's still not ready for prime time use by consumers or businesses reports WSJ's Walt Mossberg.

My verdict: Even in the relatively slick Ubuntu variation, Linux is still too rough around the edges for the vast majority of computer users. While Ubuntu looks a lot like Windows or Mac OS X, it is full of little complications and hassles that will quickly frustrate most people who just want to use their computers, not maintain or tweak them.

But you know what is ready for prime time? Apple's computer systems.

Windows users are often a frustrated bunch, especially new users. I've seen a number of them struggle with networking, printing, finding files and worrying about viruses.

Apple's latest operating system, Mac OS X looks slick and cool and from what I can tell is pretty easy to use. Quite intuitive! On the other hand, when there's serious computer problems someone who is technologically challenged will still have a tough time with their computer - be it an Apple or a PC.

I've never used an Apple before, but I'm getting close to using one as my second computer.

Back to Linux though.

Some technologists say that Linux is great as it's "free" and you are not forced to buy from Microsoft. This sounds well and good. But everything that is "free" is not best for you. Although the software is free most Linux distributions charge a fee for support in any case.

Take a careful look through Mossberg's article and really consider if Linux is for you and your business. I think it's best you stick with Microsoft Windows - or maybe Apple for now.

Linux as your server, is a great choice and to be consider. Servers from Nitix and File Engine are Linux based and work quite well.

While Linux on the computer of your end users is not advisable, Linux on a server is fine. It sits quietly in the background, never need a reboot and doing managing your network (file sharing, printing sharing, user account management, and more).

One point I do want to address. Some people think that Apple computers have no viruses. This is NOT true. You should have an anti-virus program with your computer and other security measures in place (spyware, phishing, etc). The reason why Windows has the predominate amount of attacks at this time is because it has a much larger market share than Windows.

If you were a digital thief, where would you spend your energies. Robbing computers that had a 4% market share (or less) or a 90%+ market share? Didn't a famous Wester robber say, "follow the money".

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