Perhaps nothing symbolizes the Linux-Windows divide as much as the fact that the former recompile their kernel about as much as the latter recover from crashes. While I don't think this is the sort of thing we want most home users to be have to be doing, the fact remains that for any degree of competency in Linux, familiarity with kernel building issues is a must.
Of course, a hand-built kernel implemented by someone who is savvy about hardware and security will be both fast and resistant to disasters, which is another bonus, for sure.
But I still think most people are going to want to build their own kernels about as much as they will want to change the piston rings on their cars, and that too is a fact of life.
Posted by jho at January 6, 2004 09:21 PM