14 DAY TRIAL // Like everybody else, I've started my computer experience with Windows, and from the beginning, I was also attracted to Linux, only that 7 years ago, Linux was not so friendly at all, as it is today. Back then, I did not even have broadband Internet to download distributions, the only sources were some magazines with Linux OS inside, like Mandrake 9.0 or Red Hat 6.2. Well, after about 5 years of using Windows and Linux in parallel (I tried about every distribution I could put my hands on), I've finally made the big step and dumped Windows over Linux. Ever since, I am trying to convince as many computer users as possible that Linux is a very good choice for a Home/Office Workstation. Let's have a look at the best 5 reasons why you should choose Linux over Windows:
1. Stability
Well, I can assure you that Linux is a very stable operating system. I know that Windows can also be kept alive for days, but in time, it will not be so fast as it needs a defragmentation of the hard drive. Linux doesn't need any defragmentation due to the advanced filesystems it uses, so after months or years of usage, it is still as sharp and fast like it was when you first installed it.
2. Security
Imagine that you will ride the Internet without any fear of spyware, viruses and other things that may ruin your online experience. You don't have to check your computer everyday for viruses, you don't need to install an anti-virus solution that eats over 40% of your computer memory and you don't need any anti-malware software at all. In conclusion, just imagine yourself fearlessly "driving" your PC!
3. Freedom
Imagine you are FREE! Well, you are, but imagine you can do anything you want with an operating system, imagine that you have the freedom to change it in any possible way so it can suit your needs.
4. Cost
99% of the Linux distributions around the world are FREE and all the software you will use is also FREE. Need I say more? I am pretty sure that you don't want to stay with pirated software and search for cracks and all that nasty stuff everyday, neither to pay a lot of money for every piece of software you need. Also, Linux systems can be installed on any number of computers in an Office environment.
5. Hardware
There are Linux systems made especially for old computers, like a Pentium 1 that runs at 200 Mhz. So, if you are wondering whether your computer is supported or not, I will tell you right now that it is and you'll definitely find a Linux system for you!
I must warn you though that getting to learn Linux requires patience and you must have a strong learning curve, to figure things out on your own, rather than having everything done for you. But this is the only "price" you will have to pay for using a Linux operating system. With this in mind, I want to wish everybody out there a Merry Christmas and may the New Year bring you closer to Linux.