First, "Linux" is only the kernel. Each distribution is a separate OS based on the same commodity parts wrapped around that commodity kernel called Linux. Each different distribution has it's own goals and design traits.
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Unbuntu is crap, it is too easy, therefore, it isn't Linux. Linux is meant to be hard to use.
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No, Linux is meant to *be*; end of statement. That's the end of it, it's not meant to be hard or easy. Some distributions make a point of being hard to use while other's like Ubuntu make it very easy too use. What makes Linux based distributions worth looking at is the better system design, modular customization, transparency of source code, freedom to use and redistribute and better computing for everyone. Don?t hate Linux because a distribution made it usable for average people. This status symbol ?I run Linux so I?m better than you? crap doesn?t help anyone.
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Dell has made it too widespread to the point where the true reason why Linux is secure (because so few people use it), more people will have a reason to hack it.
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This is based on a complete myth. Linux is not more secure because less people use it. Linux is not more secure because fewer Crackers target it. Linux is more secure because it?s based on the Unix security model and because critical bugs can be discovered or fixed by any of the thousands of people in the FOSS developer community. The source is transparent so anyone can audit the actual code they are running and be sure no backdoors are written in.
If Linux is more secure because it?s targeted less then please consider the server market where Linux and other Unix servers are the majority yet they still manage to stand up to cracking attempts far better than other OS.
Say it with me; Obscurity is not Security, Obscurity is not Security, Obscurity is not Security.
As for my own opinions:
Ubuntu is a very nice distribution meant to be easy to use for people who have only ever known the Windows way of using a machine. I think it?s great that Dell is offering it and can?t wait to start seeing real world sales figures now that a large company is selling. I?d like to see ubuntu offer that same ease of use without reducing the overall security level of *nix though.
Ubuntu is not my distribution of choice but I do recommend it to friends. My various needs are filled by a selection of other general and specialized distributions.
I also understand that Linux has the security advantage of Unix design so is a great deal less vulnerable than what?s in 90% of homes today. When Linux gains more market share on the desktop; it will continue to respond quickly to bug reports. Popularity isn?t an issue in regards to security.
(I could write more or proofread this but it?s home-time)
