Linked by Adam S on Tue 6th Aug 2002 03:52 UTC
Just a few weeks after the beta release of the next version of their Linux based OS, Red Hat has released 7.3.93 of their software, once again, code-named Limbo. Those of you who read my first Limbo review know that I gave it a favorable review. After downloading and installing the second beta, I had to take a few days before writing this article.
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"Linux as a desktop"
Simple to address: Linux is whatever you and other programmers want it to be: a desktop, a server, a graphics workstation, an audio platform... Those not used to seeing Linux on the desktop need to be prepared: the demand is there, the tools and apps are there, the companies recognize that.
"A Windows Killer"
I knew using the term "Windows Killer" would upset a great many people, and it appears it did. But my opinion on this issue is solid - if you want to move Windows out, at this point, that option is viable. There are substitutions for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. There are development programs, graphics programs, and internet utilities. There are audio programs: rippers, encoders, and editors. Linux is a full enough system that it can replace Windows.
"the Install Process"
Yeah, I hate that first screen on the install too, but the overall process is still, I believe, overall easier than Windows. Two chief complaints: the very first screen of the install where you can pass instructions to the kernel and the gray and white X server startup. The second part is not a big deal. The first part has got to go unless you invoke it with an F8 or something.
"an integrated IDE"
I've resigned to this idea: developers will never agree on what's best. More options = better.
"RPM and package management"
Red Hat should not push RPM to further promote the Red Hat network. This will get expensive, and it only takes about 3 instances of trying to use up2date and getting the error "too busy right now, upgrade to premium if you want to continue...blah blah blah" before you get really pissed. Believe me.
Compatibility
Hate me for saying this, but you don't need compatibility in 99% of cases. Almost everything I write is now stored in .abw files. If I NEED to have compatibility, I save in .doc format. Close enough in most cases. The few rare times I need some MS specific feature, I use Windows at work.
SuSE 8
I've been asked many times about SuSE 8, and I have not tried it yet. I need to get my hands on a copy. Maybe that will be my next piece: Limbo vs. SuSE 8.