In this discussion you will be debating the ways to handle installing software in Linux, comparing it to other OS methods such as application stores and standalone install files. Make sure the following are answered (using at least 200 words):
- What advantages and disadvantages do you feel a repository offers compared to other installation methods?
- Why do you think other OSes do not use this?
- How do you feel Linux handles non-repository installs compared to other operating systems?
---------------------------- My Answer: ⊇ ----------------------------
Concerning repositories while
installing software my logic of thought brings me to two separate analytical
opinions. As you know a repository is used to download software for an operating
system, Linux specifically uses repositories for updating software included
with each distribution. For this the software is located and downloaded if the
version is new. The process for the *yum command is manual, but can be
scheduled into an automation process. I am hesitant to say repositories are
good or bad, in Linux applications are downloaded or updated, but the proposed
question, “Why do you think other OSes don’t use this?” seems to overlook that
Windows does use an update service. Whereas Linux offers files from repository
their continual presence in the repository rests with demand, verbose or by notable
download amounts, notoriety becomes a defining factor instead of demand. The
development of coded applications eventually becomes required learning, which
Linux rightfully provides the opportunity as expectant users of competing
operating systems might feel an entitlement. Many programs, herein Linux and
Windows, have scheduled update discovery events to look for new software or
exploit consumerists with an update only designed to advertise a new service.
Linux proprietary software develops in a natural state, existence by necessity,
the ‘no need to reinvent the wheel’ idiom, as a flood of useless software
bombards consumers who merely need one that works. Therein I believe is the
sole flaw of open-source, the developers are open agents who may take exodus
from one project to another, to which the idiot-proof Windows Update
repositories offer the “bigger is better” solution that commercial interests
require and are given despite which developer is the acting functionary.
Examples: Red Hat, Apple, Oracle, Cisco, all are proprietary systems, among
others, that have software repositories.
The choice is by consumer on a case
by case basis, learning Linux allows you to support Linux and at the same time
know more about it to not have to wait for tech support to help. Then you can
teach others the sustainability.