Test-Drive a Linux Desktop From Windows

debiansid writes "The Open Soucre Region Stuttgart is now offering a free demo of the Linux Desktop to users through their web browsers. They had earlier launched a German version before which received more than 100,000 responses, after which they decided to launch an English version. The website requires you to download and run an exe - it does not install anything on to the hard drive. The demo system is Debian based with a v2.4 kernel and KDE."

Comments

Test drives don't translate to reality

[suitepotato]

Boot a Knoppix CD. Now install it to the HD. Without prior techie experience, with nothing more than the directions in Knoppix Hacks. Go on.

As great as the book is, as helpful as it is, most non-tech people aren't going to be able to make the leap from playing around in a live CD to installing, configuring, and using Linux.

Now if the desktops are on a massive multi-user server remote from them, with paid techie admins, and they simply log in remotely and use it that way, well a lot of these people do that at their corporate jobs every day with Citrix and MSTermServ.

It's like testing a fully functional SUV versus buying it, and having to put part of the engine together and reinstall the sound system and rotate all the tires yourself before you can make any use of it. Why do that when you can get an econobox ready to roll?

Linux-based MSPs might be a good way to get Linux desktops in front of users, but other than that...