Linux: I've got to admit it's getting better

I recently installed Linux (Ubuntu 9.04 “Jaunty Jackalope” to be exact) on my not-so-old pentium 4 HT machine, the very same computer where different Linux distros have been installed over the course of two years. What struck me most after this very latest installation is how Linux has evolved and has become a more than capable desktop operating system.

When I first installed Linux (openSUSE 10) sometime in 2007 on this hardware, I have to say that it took me more than a week to have a fully working desktop. Why that long? Let me enumerate the reasons:

* Operating system installation failure
* GRUB issues
* Installing the correct proprietary graphics card driver is a pain
* Edited and reedited xorg.conf for several times to get my dual monitor setup working.
* Finding ways to get Compiz to work, which often lead to bigger problems
* Fixing broken packages after an installation and/or update
* Setting up file sharing was a pain
* Finding and installing codecs for my media files

This list can go on and on but those were the major issues. I even said a long time ago that Linux is not for the faint of heart.

Now, I've got to admit it's getting better: Installation is a breeze; GRUB is properly set by default; graphics card is well supported; GUI for dual-monitor setup; Compiz can be easily enabled; applications rarely break after an upgrade; file-sharing is just a few clicks away; no more trouble finding the right media codecs.

I realized that I got everything working (including operating system installation) in less than two hours. No more hassles, which means no more headaches, red gooey eyes, and back pains. Also, I can work and do the more important tasks in no time.

To non-believers like this one HERE, they should think first before they write articles that are inaccurate and rather outdated information about Linux. The things that I wrote above is my own honest testimony that Linux has improved a lot and will still get better as time goes by.

So for fun, let’s sing with The Beatles:

It’s getting better all the time

I used to get mad at my school

(No I can’t complain)

The teachers that taught me Windows weren't cool

(No I can’t complain)

You're holding me down

(Oww)

Turning me round

(Ohh)

Filling me up with the rules

(Ooo)

I've got to admit Linux is getting better

(Better)

A little better all the time

(It couldn’t get no worse)

I have to admit it's getting better

(Better)

It's getting better since it’s been mine