Re:Microsoft aren't forcing Lenovo to block free operating s...
by tw04 on Wednesday September 21, 2016 @04:50PM
(#12552098)
If you're going so far as to install Linux on a laptop that shipped Windows, flashing the BIOS isn't a big deal at all. The real problem is that it took a third-party to fix the BIOS rather than Lenovo releasing a "BIOS for Linux" directly. I get not wanting to expose it from the factory to keep a user from screwing themselves, but there's no reason not to provide it to the power user.
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Re:Microsoft aren't forcing Lenovo to block free operating s...
by PieterH on Wednesday September 21, 2016 @04:58PM
(#12552173)
I disagree. I'm happy to install Linux from a USB stick. I'm not happy reflashing a BIOS. Have installed many, many laptops with Linux (ironically, my all time favorites are older Lenovos like the X220). I've not once flashed a BIOS.
Not being able to change the OS on a laptop severely reduces its aftermarket value too. My laptop originally ran Windows. I bought it second hand to run Linux on.
Re:Microsoft aren't forcing Lenovo to block free operating s...
by tw04 on Wednesday September 21, 2016 @08:57PM
(#12553526)
Flashing a BIOS takes about 1/10th the time and effort of installing Linux.
Unless you're under the age of about 25 I'm not sure how you've never once flashed a BIOS unless you aren't in tech. Pretty much every new server from Dell/HP/Cisco/IBM/name your vendor requires a BIOS flash at least once in it's lifetime. Usually at the time of acquisition for HBA compatibility.