Linked by Charles Williams on Mon 7th Apr 2003 03:17 UTC
We have all heard the horror stories of how GNU/Linux is difficult, if not almost impossible, as far as general desktop usability is concerned. In particular, there seems to be a continuous stream of gripes printed across the Internet, from Microsoft Windows users who wish, or have tried, to migrate to GNU/Linux, yet gave up in frustration. But what happens when complete computer newbies are introduced to GNU/Linux? By computer newbies, I am referring to those who have no computer experience whatsoever, in either a Windows, Mac, Linux, Unix or other environment.
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I think debian is definately the way to go for someone without any prior knowledge. First, the upgrades _ARE_ easier under Debian GNU/Linux then under MS Windows. Second, they get a secure system from the start where each user can have its own personal files (Windows XP did a long way to improve in this regard over previous versions).
On the other hand, if that family later decides to buy a fancy printer or scanner, they might be out of luck, I have yet to see hardware vendors put little "Linux Ready" stickers on their boxes. So they might just be buying something that isn't supported under Linux.
Of course when you take the price into consideration, any Linux distro will win easily.