Despite all the positive aspects Debian offers, there are, as with any system software, certain points of criticism. It’s important to note that, despite its rapid installation, the subsequent configuration of the distribution is very difficult and can only be mastered with the appropriate know-how and experience. Implementing special hardware components such as a printer, for example, and the installation of software packages without script, can be particularly challenging for beginners.
In addition, the lack of support for some of the widely used commercial applications is often criticized. Even though Debian does deliver a huge number of software packages, many of the proprietary programs like the Microsoft Office applications Word, Outlook, and Sharepoint are not available for GNU/Linux distributions. This means that users are limited to alternative applications like LibreOffice or Alfresco. Since it’s only the programs running in their stable version that receive security updates, it could also be the case that these are no longer up to date, either.
The Debian project faces similar problems when it comes to hardware: very current architectures and devices, as well as those that are dependent on complex drivers, are often only supported in later versions. Lastly, the Debian developers unfortunately have their hands tied when a manufacturer puts its foot down, meaning that some hardware components – just like with ports for programs and tools – simply can’t be used.