this post was submitted on 24 Jun 2024
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  • Microsoft removes guide on converting Microsoft accounts to Local, pushing for Microsoft sign-ins.
  • Instructions once available, now missing - likely due to company's preference for Microsoft accounts.
  • People may resist switching to Microsoft accounts for privacy reasons, despite company's stance.
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[–] [email protected] 17 points 1 month ago (3 children)

Then you have to install other software I have no knowledge of to make a bootable drive

Eh, this is the same for windows as well, you always need some sort of installation medium to boot and install from regardless of OS.

[–] [email protected] 22 points 1 month ago (1 children)

The difference is OP probably got their device with Windows already installed and they only needed to go through the setup steps. Setting up the installation media really is the biggest barrier of entry to linux right now. A lot of distros are so easy to set up with a step-by-step gui installer, but a lot of non technical users don’t have the knowledge, skill, or motivation to download an iso and create a bootable drive.

[–] [email protected] -5 points 1 month ago (1 children)

I mean, obviously...but that's not really something that's going to change. And today it is a seriously low barrier to pass, I'm not sure how it could go any lower, aside from.maybe buying a pre-made USB stick for installation. It already requires literally no skill other than basic reading comprehension. There is a plethora of step-by-step guides online, the only thing really keeping people from switching is their own inertia.

[–] Reverendender 15 points 1 month ago (1 children)
[–] [email protected] 6 points 1 month ago

Batman: He must have friends.
"Have you met this guy?"

[–] ItsComplicated 5 points 1 month ago (1 children)

I suppose it is automatic on Windows so it has the illusion of being easy. I can honestly say, I have not had to install anything after I hit the update button. I am also old and don't use a computer every day.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago) (1 children)

I suppose it is automatic on Window

No it's not... When you have no OS on a computer you still have to create the bootable USB for windows in the exact same way as with Linux, you still need to boot with it the exact same way and follow the installation instructions. The process is identical with the same level of "complexity".

[–] ItsComplicated 6 points 1 month ago

My apologies. My laptop had Windows already installed therefore I haven't had to do anything other than turn it on and follow the onscreen instructions.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago)

It's similar, but not the same. Most Linux distros require you to download a third-party program that people've never heard of. Windows gives you an all-in-one program from their official website, thus it's easy to trust. Arguably Linux's solution is better because you can use that program for multiple purposes. That and I think the trust factor is overblown as the distro will recommend the software and it's not hard to find people vouching for it, so if you trust the distro you may as well trust the program.