OSNews

Look, I can see that you're not frustrated and decriptor's reply to you was a bit short tempered, but I can't agree with what you're saying. Linux isn't ready for prime time because you can't configure your server on one particular distribution of Linux using a GUI? Come on.

As a home user trying to manage some digital photos or whatever I think it's fair to say that if they have to bust out the CLI then something has gone wrong, but from the sound of things you're trying to set up a Linux Samba server in a professional environment, which is altogether different. If you're going to embark upon a technical project like this, then you're just going to have to get to know your tools properly. In Linux, this means having a rudimentary knowledge of the CLI. In Windows I'd actually say the same thing, but even without that Windows has its own problems one has to come to terms with.

My point is basically this: if you're a techie (and why else would you be on these forums?) you should be willing to read a few HOWTOS and learn some basic CLI skills to make things work. There is a wealth of brilliant documentation online for SAMBA and BASH. If you're not up to the task of learning a new system, fork out for Windows instead.

Finally, I'm sorry to say that it seems you've been more a victim of bad luck than anything - it's been possible to configure Samba with a GUI for upwards of 5 years now. Have you considered filing a bug report?