[CLUE-Tech] linux & broadband

[Kevin Cullis]

I agree with David's assessment of Linux evangelism: give them the
answer they want at first, but prompt them for what direction they are
heading to hopefully give them a better answer.  In computer sales, I
always had a number of people who do not have a clue about where they
are going or what they are doing (especially about Linux) or how to
approach what they were doing.  In these cases, I always approached them
from a perspective of give them some information so they can make a
somewhat informed decision, however poor it may be (sort of a good,
better, best scenario for them).  To thrust the best answer without
framing the comment in a different way could spell trouble for both of
you.  Give them their answer they were looking for, but say "I'd
recommend this way as a better approch" and if they so choose to come
back to talk with you if they want some more advice. Solve their problem
first, then lead them to a better place.

Just a thought.

Kevin

David Willson wrote:
> 
> No sir, I am into answering the friggin' question;  it is a more effective
> method of promoting Linux, and if by some chance an opportunity arises
> within the context of the question to bash a company I hate, I might do
> that, but ...
> 
> Your answer seemed, and still does seem, to be pure propaganda.  I read it
> three times before making my very light criticism.
> 
> My unasked-for-advice to anyone attempting to promote Linux is to get
> comfortable with the knowledge that most people start out wanting to "add
> Linux" to their computing lives, not "break the Windows habit".  Approach
> them in a manner consistent with their goals, and you will be very
> successful in promoting Linux in their lives.
> 
> This fellow is a perfect example.  You may feel that in offering him your
> valuable opinion, you are saving him configuration time or wasted effort
> with the Windows box and encouraging a more appropriate, to your mind,
> configuration; however, he claims to be "new to Linux" and clearly stated
> his initial goal.  My impression of the situation is that if he were to
> attempt, right now, to set up Linux as a gateway for his Windows box, he
> will not only fail, but he will also send up frustrated and Linux will have
> become "frustrating" by association.
> 
> His self-set goal is reasonable, so rather than pushing him toward a goal
> six times as difficult to reach, an effective Linux-promoter, and a helpful
> person, will just help him reach it.
> 
> Oh, and I'm sorry for sending HTML from Outlook Express last time, and for
> enclosing more opinion than information this time.  That last makes me
> something of a hypocrite, but I did want to answer the question fully.
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Cyberclops
> To: clue-tech at clue.denver.co.us
> Sent: Friday, August 10, 2001 7:40 AM
> Subject: Re: [CLUE-Tech] linux & broadband
> 
> Are you into thought control?
> David Willson wrote:
>  Cyberclops, that answer was less than useful.  Try the exploratory
> approach, instead:Himanshu, what version of Windows do you have there?  Are
> you planning to add to your network, or stick with two machines for now?
> How many Network Interface Cards (NICs) do you have available?You will need
> three to do what you are attempting:Two for your "gateway" box: One for the
> 'Net, one for your LAN.One for your client box.  Your LAN can be a hub, if
> you're planning to add machines to it, or a crossover cable.You probably
> should consider using the Linux box as the firewall/gateway, but your
> configuration is possible, and relatively simple.  Configure your Linux box
> as dynamically as possible.  This should be the default condition, when you
> have installed the NIC.  Next, set up "Internet Connection Sharing" or
> "Routing and Remote Access" on the Windows box.  Which one you use will be
> determined by which version of Windows you have.
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Cyberclops
> To: clue-tech at clue.denver.co.us
> Sent: Friday, August 10, 2001 6:21 AM
> Subject: Re: [CLUE-Tech] linux & broadband
>  I'm of the opinion that most people do it the other way around.  They use
> Linux as the master connection and Windows as the slave.  As I understand
> it, they make this decision based on Linux's superior firewall capabilities,
> and more overall versatility in connecting to different operating systems.
> In short, Windows as a multifaceted operating system is less than optimal.
> Himanshu Sharma wrote:
> Hi,I am new to Linux. I am trying to configure it so I can connect to the
> internet. I have another machine running windows and connected to the net
> via a cable modem. I want to use the windows machine as a gateway and
> network the linux box to this machine. I am completely clueless on how to go
> about doing it. Any help would be appreciated. thanks,himanshu
> 
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