Assuming We Want FreeBSD to Grow: Who Is It For?

[Johnson David]

From: Andrew L. Gould [mailto:algould at datawok.com]
>
> For those who use FreeBSD as a server, FreeBSD the desktop is most 
> definitely an option.  The issue here is the audience.  When you say 
> FreeBSD can be a desktop, to whom are you talking?  If you're saying it 
> on this list, I think it's a truthful statement.  However, I think it 
> would be irresponsible to say it to the general public.

I dont' think anyone here has advocated FreeBSD as a desktop for the general
public. If this perception is what's causing all the angst, then please rest
easy. The Linux motto is "world domination", and that's why it tend to
emphasis Linux on every grandmother's desktop. But FreeBSD is not Linux. I
don't need FreeBSD running on my grandma's Dell to justify my own choice of
it.

The desktop "market" for FreeBSD is certainly much much smaller than general
public. But that doesn't mean that's its unsuitable for those willing to get
their hands dirty and read the FM. My original assertion that started all
this hand wringing was that I was willing to extend this group to include
those that happened to have a knowledgable and trained administrator as
well. I still hold by that assertion.

David