Issue date: 10/7/08 Section: Opinion

The common criticisms of Linux usability, sometimes overshadowing the wealth of positives, were understandable if a little pessimistic. However, with the combination of an increasingly tech-knowledgeable populace and a bit of innovation by Linux distribution creators, the difficulty factor is all but gone. The last hurdle to what can be described as a "duh" choice is gone. But, few know of it.

What better way to let students know of a cheaper, and often better, alternative than to embrace Linux beyond Blocker Building math classes? A switch would allow students to experience firsthand the versatility of the platform and gain a wallet-easing appreciation for open-source software. It's about time that the University acknowledge the strides made by various Linux flavors, like "Ubuntu" or "Arch Linux," and offer an alternative to those who want to get away from the exorbitant payments and licensing now ubiquitous in the computer world.

It's an absurd thought to spend so much money on something as intangible, but necessary as software, especially when it is vital for your computer to work. It's extortion. When a free alternative, with a large library of software, exists with usability rivaling anything Microsoft offers, why not learn a bit more about it and give it a spin?

< prev Page 2 of 2

Article Tools