Linux: Last but Not Least
Distributions like the increasingly popular Ubuntu are going a long way to change Linux's reputation for being difficult and complex to install and configure. Ubuntu's bootable DesktopCD lets you see how you'll like Linux (and a bit about how Linux will like your PC) without installing anything to the hard disk. A few more clicks will make room for Ubuntu and set it up on your hard drive, alongside Windows. (See "Windows and Ubuntu on One PC" for more.) Once the OS is in place, a couple of simple applications let you choose from and install hundreds of free programs, including productivity, multimedia, and development tools.
Another popular distribution, Novell's OpenSuSE, provides configuration utilities and libraries of applications that are nearly as easy to navigate as Ubuntu's. Both Linux distributions deliver frequent bug fixes and automatic updates.
And visually-minded Linux fans can choose from dozens of user interfaces, chief among them KDE and Gnome. Both interfaces are evolving steadily, borrowing good ideas from each other and from Apple and Microsoft as well.
With its minimal hardware requirements and solid security, Linux can serve as a bulletproof primary OS. And with painless dual-booting and virtualization options, including several free and open-source apps and the kernel-based Xen software, you can easily try out the latest in Linux without having to give up your current operating system.
Scott Spanbauer is a PC World contributing editor and writes the Internet Tips column.
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