Linux vs. Windows – What’s Holding You Back?

Posted on April 16, 2007 by Jim Walton

My last post, which highlighted Brian’s comment on TechSnob prompted Brian to write his own post. There are some great comments there so be sure to check them out.  (I also have more to share, based on the comments, but first this)

All of this has started me thinking about linux. I have always had a fascination for linux and secretly wanted to embrace it. So far, that hasn’t happened, mainly because it’s not convenient and it takes effort. I have an older PC, given to me by NBB (one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, right?) and I installed ubuntu linux on it and it runs great, plus it looks a lot like windows. It’s not on my network because it’s not wireless and I don’t have my home office hard wired yet but I think once I get it on the network, I can see giving it a fair shot.

My wife and I did each get a free full version of Vista Business, but have yet to fully commit to it. I installed it virtually on my laptop but initially, I’m missing many drivers and have not even attempted to correct it. From what I’ve seen online, I’m not alone. Someday, I might like to run Vista but it’s too early.

My point is this, all this talk of linux has motivated me to install ubuntu virtually on my laptop and attempt to give it a fair shake. Apparently, we are 4 days away from ubuntu 7.04:

Ubuntu 7.04 desktop edition includes a ground-breaking Windows migration assistant, excellent wireless networking support and improved multimedia support.

Also, from what I understand, this version will include a 3D desktop. Sometime soon, when I have some time, I’ll install Ubuntu 7.04 and give it a good run, virtually, of course.

Here’s an interesting article titled Linux Desktop – Is it an Option for Normal Users? and it’s a review of linux for windows users.  It concludes like this:

So, is Linux ready for the masses? The answer is that Linux isn’t but that some of the major distros are.

Check it out if you are curious about linux.  By the way, part 2 is here. The reality is XP isn’t perfect, Vista isn’t perfect and even linux isn’t perfect, but open source is appealing and maybe it’s time to get out of my (windows) comfort zone and take the time to learn linux and embrace it.

What’s holding you back?

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