I was wondering if anyone has a link to some statistics stating how many people when asked knew what a Linux OS was or even if Linux existed?

UK results would be great but anywhere helps.

Many thanks,
James.

Someday, Jay Leno will do one of his "man in the street" bits on this.

Here are some more questions:
How many know what an operating system is?
How many know that you are not required to use MS products?
How many have the vaguest clue how to correctly use a computer?

Here is my pontification on this topic:
http://pixellany.com/compissues.html

Linux, uuhh?? Is it a detergent? Washes whiter?

Theres a linux now, wow, I'm behind

What is the "correct" use for a computer?

Computers are designed to be used for a broad range of purposes, and none of those purposes are any more "correct" than any other!

Not beat your neighbour with it, nor throw it out the window just because you're a rockstar. Rather watch videos, listen to music, browse the web or build a site like LQ. Or play with Emacs Therapist

I don't think it's sensible to ask just how many people "know that Linux exists". Come on, a lot of people may know there's something called Linux, but think it's difficult, something regular people aren't supposed to use, or non-geeks at least. They might even think Linux is the penguin they see somewhere, along with the text "Linux" and the other odd word that says "Tux". Why is that penguin named Linux? Wouldn't Tux be a better name? What's this Tux anyway, is it an aeroplane or a UFO that has taken this "Linux" as it's mascot? (I can easily imagine a situation like this happen, can you?)

That is a very good point. But I read the question as more of a "Do you know how to make your computer do what you want it to?" question.

Exactly!!

I, for instance, use my cray solely for heating,
the dual-opteron is a paper-weight, and twink
on the screens is perfectly normal ...



Cheers,
Tink