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Linux vs. Windows: The Rematch

Can a frustrated Windows user dump Microsoft? Even with lots of improvements, Linux is still no cakewalk.

Scott Spanbauer

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Global Marketing Partners Suse Linux 8.0 Professional Edition (Full Product) (Global Marketing Partners-201424INT)

Who Needs Linux, Anyway?

Linux publishers today add many of the user-friendly features that longtime Windows users expect, such as automated installers, printed manuals, tidy graphical interfaces, and (paid) phone support.

Linux is arguably far more secure than Windows--something of concern to PC users everywhere. The Linux community regularly releases patches for security issues almost the same day that bugs are reported. Linux users also proudly claim that, to date, not a single virus outbreak has ever targeted this operating system.

Customization options in Linux can be too much of a good thing, and even experienced computer users can find them daunting. Some users may decide that the time spent installing and configuring Linux--and riding its learning curve--isn't worth its free installation.

In the end, the type of Windows user who will want to take Linux for a test drive will probably be moderately experienced, curious, and frustrated with some inflexible part of Windows. But if you're reasonably happy with Windows, and can manage to work with the applications and hardware you already own and use, it probably isn't worth the trouble to switch gears and learn a new OS from scratch.

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