> Seeing that ease-of-use has not been a deterrent to the most hardened
> Linux users, one question that arises though is what is it about Linux
> keeps the non-converts away? But that is mostly a point to ponder about
> as
> we "peddle" Linux to prospective users.
Different folks, different strokes. I'm sure the others would have their
own answers, so I'll try to limit mine to a typical student's point of
view.
Truth of the matter is that, Windows is still a more easy to use
platform compared to Linux with X. A lot of people have had experience
in their schools with Windows and probably have their own computer at
home.
Granted, some users don't like to modify their computers as much. They
just want their computers to work. A lot, as well, don't want to know
what's going on behind the scenes. So long as it works, they're happy.
Also, a single-user OS is by far easier to maintain than a multi-user
OS. Most people don't want to know that they have to be some sort of
admin to change settings. They believe, since the computer is theirs,
they're free to do whatever they want.
That's one point which I think why Linux won't easily wind up in the
typical home.
> For what different functions have you deployed/used Linux?
Thanks to ACENT (William Yu, Jess Uy, others), I've had experience
playing around with PHP and PostgreSQL/mySQL. I was part of the team
that helped set up the residence hall's electronic registration system
(dubbed Project3D: Dorm Directory/Database) which we hope to use soon.
Also, under William, I learned networking, routing, ip masquerading, and
other interesting stuff. Right now, I'm practicing the basics of
systems/network administration -- basically maintaining the "mini-isp"
already set up.
We're (ACENT) also looking to use other technologies which we can
implement in the residence halls.
Outside this, I've helped setup a small Linux network for a company in
Zamboanga city that needed a small database with graphical front-end at
minimum expense. I don't know if there were people trained to maintain
it, but I think the network's still up.
> In other words, for what purposes are you using Linux now?
Nothing beats free. :)
Linux allows us to develop solutions that are cheap but reliable.
> Why do you think other people should be using Linux?
I wouldn't force people to use Linux. Besides, I still believe in the
adage "use the right tool for the right job." If some people think that
product X is still superior for the job, then so be it. However, Linux
is a good all-around solution that can adapt/be modified/configured for
most needs.
Should people want something affordable and reasonable for whatever
needs, Linux is a good candidate.
And maybe with Microsoft's decision to go software "licensing" -- their
products being licensed to you for only so long, I think the Open Source
initiative is a great alternative for consumers and businesses alike who
don't want to be pinned to such a restriction. :)
Just my P0.02. :)
--------------------------------------
Gino LV. Ledesma
Ateneo Cervini-Eliazo Networks (ACENT)
email : [EMAIL PROTECTED]
web : http://cersa.admu.edu.ph/
phone : (63)(2) 426-6001 ext. 5925/5904
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