Redhat does a simlillar thing, they dont allow you to download system updates automaticly unless your a redhat member ($39 dollars yearly if you FTP-ed an ISO)or if you bought the package at the store ($79 @ CompUsa) its free. You can still download and install the updates manually but its a pain.
I guess they need to pay for the overhead or somthing, I personally really like RedHat so I didnt have a problem with becoming a member .. but I guess I can see how it would piss some people off. Linux will always be free but if you want it given to you in a nice little bow I think we're gonna start seeing the major distributers going to somthing like this. I dont know if its good or not ... I dont want to see RedHat go the way of Correll(sp?) or T.L. or anything so if it keeps them afloat I dont have a problem with member dues.
I guess they need to pay for the overhead or somthing, I personally really like RedHat so I didnt have a problem with becoming a member .. but I guess I can see how it would piss some people off. Linux will always be free but if you want it given to you in a nice little bow I think we're gonna start seeing the major distributers going to somthing like this. I dont know if its good or not ... I dont want to see RedHat go the way of Correll(sp?) or T.L. or anything so if it keeps them afloat I dont have a problem with member dues.