Kubuntu’s biggest problem: Network Management

k cards are One of the first things someone notices when working with Kubuntu or introducing Kubuntu to someone is networking and how wireless works.  Or based on what I’ve been working with, the lack of working.  I now that everyone who reads this post is going to comment its the drivers stupid, network drivers are mostly closed source, if there were better drivers then the problems wouldn’t occur.

I disagree, once I get the drivers installed, whether they are restricted or free, the problems are just beginning.  I’ve had the same frustrations running Kubuntu 9.04, Kubuntu 9.10, or Kubuntu 10.04 beta 2.  For some reason the network mismanagement program always has problems.  These problems range from not saving settings of hidden networks, to not accepting the password I’m typing in, to not working when I’m trying to setup a VPN for work, etc.  All in all a large failure.

While networking isn’t sexy and doesn’t get the press that windows button movement does, it absolutely  has to work out of the box.  If there are free drivers available, they should be enabled, then the management tool has to work.

Think through the following  scenario:

I’m introducing some friends to Kubuntu, however they are unable to connect to their networks, will they switch?  How about if I tell them, the problem is solved, but first we need to reference a wiki page to figure out how to correct this for the specific drivers they are using.  Will they switch?

There needs to be some focus in Maverick on improving the network experience the end use has