linux vs. xp

[honsten]

which is the better OS? ive heard nice rumours about linux

[WoWo]

Depends on your requirements. Linux is basically an Open Source OS meaning that the code isn't owned by a company but developed by anyone interested in doing so. On a simple level this also means that it's free. There are also many different flavours which all do the basics the same but have added functionality depending on which you chose. There are some popular ones such as SUSE and RedHat which you can purchase, this gives you CD's, Manuals, support and the like over a free version.

Is it better than XP, thats a matter of opinion. If your a home user I'd suggest sticking to XP as Linux requires a fair amount of computer know how. I have worked in computers for 10 years and it was too much hassle for me. Also many peripherals (mice, modems, camera's etc) won't work with Linux. It's getting better but it's a pain. For me the bigest factor was that my cable modem didn't work.

One way to look at it is the difference between a kit car and an escort. Is a kit car better than an Escort, in terms of performance, style, handling and so on yes it's much better. But you have to build the thing in the first place.

I don't have a problem with Linux but it didn't offer me anything I couldn't do with XP and in most cases did a lot less out of the box. Sure I could have downloaded everything and installed it but all I want is the thing to work. I spend all day messing with computers at work, the last thing I want to do when I get home is to have to fiddle with settings to download my e-mail.

[Thunderchild]

u have quite a point there i would love to use linux but it is not that well supported by comercial manufactorers which is a pity cause one BIG advantage of linux is the one that makes the software does it cause he wants it just so and so and that makes a better program than any assembly of comercial trash just look at the size of MS office (500 MB like the same size as the OS) and a free office suite with the same capabilitys !

well unfortunately i have a cell phone as a modem and needs the specific driver that is only made for windows