An experienced Linux user explains why Linux is not ready for prime time:
I'm with the webmasters on this 1000%. It's not that I'm against Linux, its
that I can't be for it.
The OS is just impossible because you have to know about a gazillion
commands to make it do what you want, and who has time for that?
The apps software that comes with it as open source is distinctly second
rate, which explains why it is free, and there is a dearth of specialized
software for particular uses. Cross-platform emulators are lame.
The supposed benefits of customizing seem to be non-existent for home users,
especially since customizing does not seem to be to the effect of making the
apps any better.
The desktops are poor clones of Windows, and are counterintuitive to
actually use.
The fact that downtime is reduced because of fewer viruses, worms or
stability issues is offset when you add back the extra learning time,
research time, and other chores necessitated by Linux, not the least of them
being frequent need to repartition and/or format hard disks if you are going
to play around with it. It is also not so clear that Linux users are immune
from such hazards, or if they just have a reprieve for as long as they fly
under the radar.
Linux websites and helpsites are filled with arrogant Linux users who will
actually be angry if you question the usefulness of vitality of their
system, and there is no real professional help available.
Ultimately, the problem with Linux is that free is not the same as cheap.
Someday that may change, but today there is lots of expense attached to a
Linux install, and not a lot of upside, especially since I found myself
surprised by its difficulty and/or its impossibility even when reading
instructions from a $30 book. The world ought to know that there are
opinions on both sides, not just the hype of Linux lovers. The Internet is
filled with lovers of things -- their soccer heros, their bands, and on an
on. There needs to be balance from people not so smitten with something.
In fact, the words "whylinuxsucks" won't google to well, so I'm suggesting
lots of use of this phrase so people can find you more easily: "Should I
choose Linux?"