Ok, I think I get it....
For FREE, I can get an operating system that is going to give me a headache setting it up and at the very least require a major investment of time to learn a load of new codes. It might or might not configure all of my hardware... well, most of it. It definitely won't run my printer and will probably have me pulling out the little hair I've got trying to set up a dual monitor system.
After all that pleasure it will allow me the joy of more frustration trying to run programs I rely on. I can use Photoshop.... if I ignore the great advances of the CS system and go back to the tools of PS7. I can then forego the pleasure of using Word because there is a freebie that can make .doc files, ignoring the fact I have spent hundreds of pounds on Microsoft Office. It hasn't been mentioned but my guess is I'll have the same problems with Dreamweaver and a few other programs I use.... not to mention the AOL internet software that has served me perfectly well (not everyone's favourite but for me it works) for over 11 years will not allow me to connect to the internet.
No web-creating, no photograph processing, no video editing, no internet....
Hey, where do I sign?
Sorry Silky, only being facetious matey, just not been oversold so far. I don't like the billions Bill gates has earnt from a crummy invention of his any more than anyone else but hey, I've got it now and it's working. Linux is now, has been for ages and as far as I can see will be for some time a computer enthusiasts plaything: very enjoyable, eye-opening and educational but not practical until it can convince the major players that it is worth selling their software in Linux format.
Putting all that aside, I can understand totally why people with an unused computer doing little in the corner might enjoy installing it and exercising their little grey cells in getting it working with Linux. It sounds fun though I must say I have enough trouble finding time for everything now so my missus will probably thow her hands up in despair if I dare suggest yet another hobby <g>
Cheers,
Rob