I have become very pragmatic when it comes to new users that want to use GNU/Linux and have issues with installing it. Most of the time I have to think in terms of technology rather than idealism. And users become more consumers than developers. There is this notion and pride that GNU/Linux should run anywhere, but like the rest of technology and things, it really doesn't and is best to buy whatever hardware you need.

For people that wants to try a Mac they have to buy a whole system, but the GNU/Linux people sometimes they have it better. Sometimes is a network dongle, some other times is a soundboard, but in the end the goal is to understand that like any other technology people should try to make an effort to make it easy for technology to run. So my advice always is, have you thought on getting new hardware.

Some people don't agree with this method for some weird reason, because for other things, they see no problem into trying the same solution. I.E. if you want to try a new game or technology, get a better system.