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One advantage that Linux has over Windows is use of paths rather that a registry. The Windows registry is difficult to use. There is not a great deal written about the registry, and once it's cooked, you had better have a backup. Also, the registry cannot be used over TCP/IP like a path can.
I would like to see windows drop the registry in favor of something that would hopefully play nice with everyone.
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M$ is moving to active directory. AD is much more involved than just paths - but includes UNC. Even AD uses a GUI to administrate. MMS console.

I like Apples new tool - R-something. It does not need manual tweaking etc. But it depends on hardware - something like plug and play.

John