Covering Hollyhood Microsoft Google Apple

By CiscoPixie

Every computer user on the planet is different. We have different tastes and want different things for our computers. When it comes to choosing an operating system, there are many rivals. By far, majority choose Microsoft Windows. Another handful will pick Linux and some may choose Mac OS. If you are a Windows user and would like to use Linux instead, read further.

First of all, ask yourself why would you like to move to Linux? Is it because you feel Linux is better than Windows or are you simply being anti-Windows? Many people do not consider this question as something serious. "Oh an operating system is an operating system." Wrong. Windows suits most users needs. Those who either like to be different or just get sick of security patches move to other operating systems. Once you have assessed why you'd like to change, the next step in migrating is deciding which Linux distribution you'd like to use.

There is are many (over 40) different distributions of Linux. Not sure which one to choose? Many users use Ubuntu which, like all other Linux distro's, is free. I do suggest you do some research into the different Linux's available and make an informed decision.

Cost also plays a huge part. While Linux can be installed on many computers with no restrictions and for free, Windows must be purchased for each individual computer and licensed. Hence, the more computers you have, the higher the cost. Linux = free.

Next on the list is support. For both Windows and Linux, there is professional support available but for a fee. But if you have an internet connection, most problems are easily solved on a forum or someone's blog. Linux is community based and everyone can lend a helping hand.

Another point for those wanting to move to Linux is that while Linux users can use a program called WINE to run Windows programs on Linux, this is not guaranteed and the program may not work. A useful suggestion is to look up the company that created WINE-HQ and search the site for whichever program it is you'd like to use. This way one can be sure that the program will work. It may not be perfect, but remember it was designed for Windows.

The above mentioned items are merely things to think about before migrating to Linux. Once you have decided on a Linux distro, first try to browse the operating system before you install it to be sure this is what you want.

Windows and Linux can run side by side as long as the system requirements are met. The installation can be done by a professional or by yourself as long as you know what you are doing.

I use Windows for gaming purposes but Ubuntu for everything else. As an Ubuntu user for almost a year, I would recommend it to anyone looking at a Linux distro. The last comment I have to make must be expressed in capital letters: