if this really about flash compatibility, I have a 64bit desktop running kubuntu gutsy 64 and firefox has no probs with flash sites.

support is a joke on proprietary systems! I can still remember being on the phone for hrs with some techidiot trying to get my comp working. since I switched, no more phone calls for help. no more system crashes. the linux community for the most part (90%) is so helpful.

It bugs me when I hear/read a post like this. If flash isn't working it's because someone hasn't taken the steps to get it to work. Not a hard thing to do.

Too much variation!? Thats is the best part about linux! Variation fuels innovation! just remember not to use repos that don't support your distro. This is another great point for linux, you can't install some stupid piece of software that could possibly slow down or damage your sys.

one more thing. the rest of the world is switching to linux. 53 million desktops in Brazil educational system. After deploying linux in government they decided to do it for the schools. Several german cities have done the same. The french parliament has made the to linux. The EU has made software patents illegal. Last I heard, China has throwm MS out of the country and is working on Asianux linux.

Java is opening it's code and Adobe is taking similar steps (not open but accessible)

There is an idea that everything works otb with windows. Try installing windows with one disk and try to print a document or rip/burn a cd or watch a dvd or even connect to the web. Good luck.

Put a kubuntu live cd in and you can browse the web or use the word processor while installing. when installation is complete you boot into a fully functional desktop (except wireless in some cases).

when was the last time anyone had to recompile a kernel (yes, thats with two e's). I haven't done that in 3 yrs! Even then it was more for the experience. The linux kernel is well over 6 million lines of code. darn near every driver written is in there. So much harware is supported these days that , with a little research, you can get everything you need and not have to alter a system file or RECOMPILE a kernel!

BTW, how long did it take ms to make windows 64 bit compatible or multi core compatible?

Here is a little tidbit for ya, windows 7 will not be compatible with any previous windows software.