Tech Support and the Clueless Caller

"Operating Systems"
Computer Stupidities

"Most computer users understand that you need an operating system to use a computer practically, even if it is not clear why. But many users don't...."

I've done tech support: and these anecdotes could be real. A few examples:

"* Tech Support: 'May I ask what operating system you are running today?"
* Customer: 'A computer.'"

"* My Friend: 'What's your operating system?'
* Me: 'Linux.'
* My Friend: 'You better uninstall it!'
* Me: 'Why?'
* My Friend: 'The government uses Linux to look through your computer and see your every move. They use it as a security camera into your world.'
* Me: 'Sure....' "

"One time I had to walk a Windows 95 user through a particular procedure.
* Me: "First you need to open DOS-prompt. I'll guide you--"
* Customer: "MY COMPUTER DOES NOT HAVE DOS! YOU THINK I RUN THAT ANCIENT SOFTWARE?" (click)"

Yep: been there, done that.

Later - much later, sometimes - this sort of thing is funny. It's been long enough for me: maybe you'll like this collection of cognitive bloopers, too.

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A tip of the hat to timethief, on Twitter, for the heads-up on this page.