Peter wrote:

> > Linux is complex enough to supply all the rope needed to do the 
> system in. On the other hand, if you follow the crowd (and do not do 
> things outside the box, like attempting to update the system in bulk 
> using packages from another system, based on the *wrong* assumption 
> that any rpm package is a rpm package), you will have a smooth ride.

Actually, I think that for a lot of people it is not an "either-or" 
situation.  Both Windows and Linux have their strong points and their 
weak points, and I suspect that a lot of people do the same as I do -- 
run a dual-boot system.  If I want to do non-pic software stuff, I'll 
use Linux, because it is easier (and I'd do pic stuff on Linux if I 
could).  But if I want to just get on the Internet and do stuff, I'll 
usually boot up XP.    Not always, on either point, but generally 
speaking that is the divide.  I also suspect (again, without having any 
data to back it up) that a lot of hard-core Linux people mostly use the 
terminal window (or multiple terminal windows), and it is easier on 
Linux than on Windows.   Then, of course, there are us addicts who from 
time to time just HAVE to get a fix, by doing something in Perl.  :-)

>
>
> The smoothest ride is currently given by the live boot type cds, like 
> Knoppix (which is Debian based). There is *nothing* to configure if 
> you have normal hardware (most any pc made between 1998 and say three 
> months ago). It does not even install on the hard disk. You put the cd 
> in, boot from it, and sip coffee for ca. 3 to 5 minutes until it boots 
> directly into gui (x11), with internet connection up (if you have a 
> router you are already connected by the time the system is up), Open 
> Office installed, access to your hard drive, sound, usb, cd (and dvd) 
> writer and about 2000 other applications (including wine, a windows 
> emulator that allows many windows-only programs to run under linux). 
> If you like it, you can even install it on a partition. It is hard to 
> resist the temptation. See http://www.knopper.net -> knoppix . New 
> versions are out all the time.
>
> Peter


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