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A great read overall. But at the very end the author lapses into indulging some old Linux shibboleths. Specifically:

Unfortunately, the ties that bind all Linux distributions — primarily a lack of support for major Windows- and Mac-based business, design, and gaming applications — still hold Ubuntu back from mass popularity.

and

For users with such moderate computing needs as Web browsing, e-mail, and basic document creation, however, Hardy is a compelling option.

In the first case it is not true that it is any lack of "business" and "gaming" applications (or even support for their Windows and Mac varieties) that is holding Linux back from "mass popularity". Linux has long had excellent alternatives to all "mass" Windows and Mac business applications e.g OpenOffice.org, Evolution, Thunderbird, Firefox, GnuCash etc. Those business applications now missing from Linux can hardly be described as "mass" applications. Anything that the "masses" do on Microsoft Office for example, they can do on Linux.

In the second case, the false truism is that Linux is only suitable for "basic" computing needs. Linux is suitable for the computing needs of all but perhaps 1 or 2% of general computer users.

I have been using Linux now for years both at home and at the office (on my laptop) and I can attest to the fact that my Windows and Mac colleagues have nothing on me in the computing department.

For the typical Mac or Windows user Linux is more than sufficient for their computing needs. Most computer users are neither gamers, nor specialists. What holds Linux back from mass adoption is the same thing that holds the Mac back; Microsoft's fiercely defended desktop monopoly.

This was a good article and an enjoyable and informative one. But I fear that by reflexively repeating these old Linux shibboleths it will leave many readers with the impression that Linux is not ready for general use. Such an impression would be truly unfortunate because Linux may well be what the general computer user needs to get them off that expensive upgrade treadmill.

emk