

In Windows there are tools or 3rd party softwares available to customize literally almost anything. There’s plenty on Linux that I couldn’t say the same for. Granted I may not know where to look in some cases and may have missed it, or it may simply be a result of my lack of experience with Linux in general. But the point is that a new user’s first impressions matter, and if someone who isn’t comfortable doing commands and using non-GUI tools is forced to use them all the time, their patience may run thin faster than others. I believe people should want to learn and they should do the research. But realistically, if the goal is to get as many users to adopt Linux as possible, this is a barrier to entry.

It’s not even about which OS is easier to troubleshoot. The case I’m making is that there is progress that is needed to be made on Linux’s part to help people understand it as easily as they do on Windows. Let’s not even pretend that it’s easier to troubleshoot Linux than it is to troubleshoot Windows (I know you’re not specifically saying this but comparing which is easier is something a new user absolutely takes into account). It definitely would be easier if you’ve used Linux for longer, obviously. But for those who haven’t ever tried it, but want to, then do so, have problems and begin troubleshooting, it can feel like a labyrinth and be extremely overwhelming. I’m only trying to convey that despite the progress Linux has made over the years, it is still out of the reach of many people. As I keep saying, people SHOULD take the time to learn. It would be great and beneficial, but a lot people just can’t invest the time.