Ok. One week with Linux. I like it ok. I wish I could get it just the way I want it.
GAIM. It’s sorta the Trillian in the Linux world. Logon to MSN, Yahoo, AIM, and ICQ in one program. The only things I’d want from it is that I wish I could dock it. And Metacontacts would be nice.
The frustrating thing with Linux is that programs are very difficult to install. Instead of clicking on an executable file with Windows, you have to run some long string of a command from the terminal prompt. Usually you can find a RPM program which will do most of the installing for you. I got an RPM to work with a Linux version of Yahoo Messenger. But that’s been it. Haven’t been able to install Mozilla Firebird.
Everytime I try to install one program, I get a message saying that another program is needed for it. So I try to install that program. Yet a 3rd program is needed for the 2nd program to install. And so on… You get the picture. This is definitely holding Linux back. Installing programs shouldn’t be like pulling teeth. It should be easy and simple.
So that’s the problem. Linux Gurus and fans want this OS to catch on with Windows users. But for it to catch on, it has to be easy to operate. And at this point…at least with my limited knowledge….it is difficult.
And I’m somewhat familiar with it…or at least I’m getting familiar each and every day I use it. I’d like to use it more often, but I’m afraid if I can’t install some good programs on it, it will be nothing more than an expensive toy.