Analysis of 5 major problems with Linux

One of the biggest challenges for Linux users has always been poor documentation. While there are many other common issues, this one stands out as a major pain point. In my 2016 Open Source Yearbook article titled "Troubleshooting Tips," I mentioned that Linux can be installed and run smoothly under normal conditions, but not everyone is so lucky. What problems still exist with Linux as we approach the end of 2017?

1. Documentation

The lack of quality documentation remains one of the most frustrating issues this year. Although open source has produced a wealth of excellent code, it's often paired with inadequate or outdated documentation. This problem has become even more urgent as more non-professional users begin to adopt Linux and open source tools. The demand for stability and usability has never been higher. If you're looking to contribute to open source, improving documentation is just as valuable as writing code. Many projects store their documentation in the same repository as their code, so you can always access the latest version as the project evolves.

2. Software and Library Version Incompatibility

Another recurring issue is software and library version incompatibilities. This tends to be more severe on less mainstream distributions. Although I haven't encountered this too often myself, solutions like AppImage, Flatpak, and Snaps are becoming more common, and I expect them to play an even bigger role in the future.

3. UEFI and Secure Boot

Although support for UEFI and Secure Boot has improved with more hardware vendors offering better compatibility, many users still face issues. Using a distribution that fully supports these features right out of the box is the best way to avoid problems.

4. Abandonment of 32-bit Support

Many users are frustrated by the declining support for 32-bit systems in their favorite distributions and software. While 32-bit support is still required, the number of projects maintaining it is shrinking. However, since we're dealing with open source, if someone cares about the platform, there will likely still be options available.

5. X Forwarding and Testing Deterioration

Although long-time Linux users often rely on X forwarding as a key feature, it seems to be getting less attention as Linux becomes more mainstream. Newer applications are not being tested or supported as thoroughly. With the ongoing development of Wayland-based network transparency, the situation may get worse.

Comparison with Last Year’s Issues and Improvements

Problems related to video modules, graphics drivers, power management, Bluetooth support, and WiFi or printer tooling remain challenging, but they've improved significantly compared to last year. Still, there's room for further progress. Linux has made great strides this year, but it will take several more years before all these improvements become widely effective. We have to acknowledge these issues while continuing to push for better user experiences.