Should I buy Linux computer

[Qing Hwar]

Just wondering whether the ultra-cheap Linux-based computers from Walmart
and a few other places are suitable for a former Windows user. Is Linux as
easy to use as Windows? Will I be able to run my old software.

Thanks.

[John A. Weeks III]

In article

Post by Qing Hwar
Just wondering whether the ultra-cheap Linux-based computers from Walmart
and a few other places are suitable for a former Windows user. Is Linux as
easy to use as Windows? Will I be able to run my old software.

Apple just announced a new $500 Macintosh G4. It runs UNIX
as the base operating system, with the Mac interface layered
on top of it. All the popular software is available on the
Mac, plus you can run all the UNIX, Linux, and Open Source
software. Finally, Microsoft has a program in Office Pro
that allows you to run XP and XP programs, though not at
the same speed as on a native Pentium chip.

I also saw some non-Microsoft machines advertised at Micro
Center the other day. These basic PC's are really cheap when
you don't have to pay for any software licenses.

-john-

[Shawn Hearn]

In article

Post by Qing Hwar
Just wondering whether the ultra-cheap Linux-based computers from Walmart
and a few other places are suitable for a former Windows user. Is Linux as
easy to use as Windows? Will I be able to run my old software.

If your old software is designed to run under Windows, the answer's no.

[John Weiss]

Post by Qing Hwar
Is Linux as
easy to use as Windows? Will I be able to run my old software.

No and no.

Some/most Linux distributions now come with graphical interfaces ("desktops"),
but configuration will be at least different, if not harder than with Windoze.
However, if you're computer literate and willing to learn, it's a good way to
get your feet wet.

Most of your programs will work on Windoze only. Some may have Linux-based
equivalents, but you'll have to get and install them. OTOH, there is a wealth
of free, open source software available for Linux -- another aspect you can
learn and grow with.