> Computers should come from the factory with system and data partitions. I should be able to point at a partition and install.
What you're asking for is essentially impossible. There are two partitioning schemes in common use and many more file systems to choose from. The factory can't know what you want to use.
> but I did check 'format' in the box, and still it required more. > Nonsense, unless I'm setting up a server or some corporate shit.
Windows used to be harder to setup, Microsoft made it easier because it cuts down on the number of support calls. The more options you give people, the more likely they are to get it wrong.
Linux developers don't care about support calls if you mess up the install and most people that use it can (or like to think they can) cope with the complexity of it.
I run Windows 8.1, but I'd drop to 7 before I put myself through the pain of switching to Linux or XP.
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