On Monday 28 February 2005 14:02, AndyYankovich wrote:
Andre Truter wrote: (like at work) to teach the little things of how to do anything, I feel Linux won't get to be mainstream until Linux becomes standardized and much more user friendly with live tech support.
I found the tech support terrible when I was using a windows box, Dell would say it was MS's fault and MS would say it's an OEM so call Dell. SuSE 7.2 didn't have any trouble with my hardware so I switched and haven't looked back. Because linux offers more choices is it much harder to have a 'standard desktop'.
I used Mandrake 10.1 first, gave up on that, then bought and installed SuSE 9.2. I had no trouble installing it and in understanding how to use the basic functions. But other *little* things have me stumped - like how to install a software (firefox) upgrade when it isn't in RPM format. And a lot of functions in the same "class" of differentness (a word?) where I have trouble finding documentation explaining how to do it.
I am fairly intelligent, can read, and understand things. I was able to go from Win 95 to Win XP Pro by myself and get to a point where I could help others with their Windows problems. BUT, after a few months in SuSE 9.2, I don't think I will ever get to that point in Linux.
I used to feel that way, but after reading enough and trying different things I now answer questions, and the questions I ask take longer to get answers (ie why do I get 10.64.64.64 when I run /etc/rc.d/network restart).
I know I used to spend hours on the phone waiting to talk to a Microsoft tech support *live* human being. But it was worth it because I got specific answers to my specific question. I was willing to spend money to get the answers because I wanted to "use a computer". Simple reason, but one that was totally achievable with Windows and *live* tech support. IMHO only, THIS is where Linux needs to change.
How on earth can a person like me begin to truly "understand" how Linux works if I cannot *talk* to someone who will lead me to even *ask* the *right* questions? I will pay for the help. But where do I get the help?
This is where the local linux users groups fit in. My local LUG has monthly meetings, several mailing lists, and an an irc channel to provide support. Commercial help is available, but is seems reserved for commercial users who will pay the big bucks for it.
Thanks for listening. Andy
PS: Another thing. I just tried to print out this email before I sent it to be sure it said what I wanted to say. Can't figure out how to print it before I send it. I saved it as a draft but still can't print it out. I am using Evolution in SuSE Pro 9.2. Andy
Ctrl-P prints in kmail -- Collector of vintage computers http://www.ncf.ca/~ba600 Machines to trade http://www.ncf.ca/~ba600/trade.html Open Source Weekend http://www.osw.ca