I completely realize I'm a geek. I've been using Linux far longer than it's been the "cool thing" to do. I've also been around the Windows world longer than Windows itself. And to nicely round off the playing field, for the better part of a decade, I've been supporting a network of Apple computers. All this experience means two things:

1. I sound much cooler than I really am
2. Everybody asks me for help when their computers break

The first is really only true in geek circles, but the second is true everywhere I go. I don't mind at all, and I love to help people. (I find most Open Source enthusiasts tend to have that mindset. It's quite refreshing) Hands down, the number one problem people come to me about is spyware. Most of the time, that's not the leading question, but it's almost always the root of a myriad of issues. Even if you're a pro, spyware is a pain in the butt to clean up.

One of the common suggestions my fellow geeks give people is to buy a Mac. The reason is that Macs generally "just work", and require very little maintenance (read: very few calls to friendly grandsons). I'm not personally anti-Mac, or even anti-Windows -- so the Apple suggestion is one that makes a lot of sense to me. They come pre-installed, have friendly phone support, and last a long, long time. But what if Granny already had a Dell that your dumb cousin Eddie convinced her to buy? Enter Linux.

Chances are, Granny's computer hardware is fine. Since Linux will run on anything from a toaster oven to a space station -- unless there's actual physical damage, the upgrade to Linux should cost nothing but some of your time. (And maybe some of Granny's cookies.) Here's a quick list of suggestions to make life easier on you both:

1. Set up automatic login. Logging in is often a tough concept, I don't know why.
2. Install things like Flash, Java, MP3 support, DVD support, video streaming plugins, and true type fonts.
3. Put bookmarks on the browser's toolbar. Label them so Granny will understand.
4. Make the taskbar/panel large
5. Install Skype and/or instant messaging software, and preconfigure them so Granny can chat with you. You'll both love it. Again, automatic login.
6. Configure system updates to run as automatically as possible.
7. Standardize Granny's passwords. I know this is insecure, but I think it's worth it.
8. Make sure Granny calls you with questions, not cousin Eddie.
9. Remind Granny not to try buying software from Walmart, or online. Have her ask you first.

And now it's up to you. Please drop your suggestions for how to set up Granny's computer in the comment section below. If we work together, we can dominate the elderly desktops of the world in no time. :)
__________________________
Shawn Powers is the Associate Editor for Linux Journal. You might find him chatting on the IRC channel.

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Just a little something to end your work week with:

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Yes yes, I realize it's no surprise we feel pretty attached to Linux here at Linux Journal, but that aside, what's not to love about Linux? Especially in the last few years, it's no longer a matter of whether Linux is ready for the desktop yet -- it's just a matter of when are people going to realize it? Thankfully, we're starting to see that. And here's why:

Linux is Sexy

Have you seen Compiz? Have you seen KDE4? Have you seen Enlightenment? The great thing about Linux is that you don't just have to claim one slick and sexy desktop, and become a fanboy. You can have several, and then apply updates to get more. Linux isn't tied to any one gorgeous interface, it's got many. What's better than one sexy, user friendly interface? Several!

Linux is Smart

Look, I've installed my fair share of operating systems. Linux used to be painful, but anymore, it's so simple. Add things like Wubi, and you don't even have to partition anymore. Updates for software are automatic (all software, not just OS specific), drivers are included for most hardware, and many distributions come on a single CD, packed with software.

Oh, and viruses? I won't say there's no concern, but I'll also say that I've never installed any anti-virus stuff. And I've never had a problem. Ever. Spyware? Same deal. Defragging? Never done it. Reinstalling? Well, yes, but because I like to, not because I've needed to. :)

Linux is Cheap

Free. As in Beer, as in speech, as in "found it on the side of the road" -- how ever it pleases you most, Linux is free. And it comes with so much 3rd party software (also free), that the most difficult part is deciding what to use. Oh, I know, "But what about the games!!!!" -- well, there are ways to play commercial games in Linux, but honestly, there are so many free, native games, that you could easily entertain yourself out of a job without ever spending a dime!

Flirting with Others is Encouraged

Guess what: With Linux, you don't have to tie yourself to a single distribution. You can try several. You can have them all on your computer at the same time. You can virtualize them. You can dual boot them. You can scatter them around your house, and remotely control them. I have a whole harem of Linux boxes in my house, and they are all quite happy. :)

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