[Quinn]

Obviously various releases of Linux have been geared toward home users ever since Linux was the "next big thing" a few years ago. There is even Knoppix which you can run off a CD, how much easier can it get? However, my opinion based on what I know is that except in a few specific cases, it is not a viable choice for a home user who is not technically inclined, mostly still due to installation complexity, the number of versions out there, the lack of available commercial software releases (although obviously that number is climbing), the unavailability of support, and lastly, the amount of time I feel one would have to devote to keeping up with developments. I would also suggest that computer games, and the fact that the vast majority are only ever available for Windows, affects the purchasing decision of many home users, although multiple systems for each family member is becoming more common now. Most of the heavy Linux users I know of are techies. Scientists also seem to like it.

I think the only way we're going to see Linux begin to make a dent in Windows' huge market share is when storefront retailers (Staples, Future Shop, etc.) begin to push Linux systems. Dell sells Linux systems but seems to be targetting business users who need stability and who only run a small number of applications, versus the myriad of programs that many home users have (how big is your Start Menu?). Officially, "Dell recommends Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional", and last time I checked, you couldn't buy a Dell without an OS pre-installed (generally Windows), which makes me wonder if Microsoft has a deal with them to provide incentive for Dell to push Windows. Currently the W3C reports over 90% of web users are running some form of Windows, mostly XP of course.