[hamandcheese]

I think perhaps you are conflating user-friendly and user-focused.

Linux, and open source in general, is infinitely more user-focused than anything from Microsoft, since open source is often built for users and by users.

But if you don't have great computer skills already, Linux can be extremely un-friendly the moment you step off the beaten path.

[mnw21cam]

Linux is user-friendly. It is just very particular about who its friends are.

[secstate]

I mean, unless you know the various arcane aspects of Windows, it's pretty hilariously un-friendly when you step off the path, too. After a decade of using Gnome exclusively, whenever a friend asks for help with Windows, all I can do is shrug and suggest reinstalling and/or living with the pain.