Every computer user has an opinion about operating systems like Windows and Linux. While the average consumer of PCs may only be familiar with Windows based systems, the more technically minded will have at least some familiarity with Linux. Keep reading to learn a little bit more about both of these operating systems.
For the most part, technically minded people think Linux is easy – this is not true for most of the rest of us. It is not as simple as Windows in regard to the learning curve, mostly because it was made by programmers for programmers. Windows, on the other hand, is made for people who are mainly interested in using the technology for specific purposes without necessarily understanding it. The Linux OS is actually updated on a regular basis. Of course, the same is true for Windows, but in this case you simply install it by hitting a few keys. We also recommend doing some research on Linux yourself to make sure this is what you want. Anyone that is willing to spend some time learning the Linux system will definitely be a candidate for this OS. Linux’s primary benefit is that it is open source software which means you can get it for free. Windows, though, is very expensive. The latest version of Windows 7, for example, will cost almost a hundred dollars. While most modern PCs come with a recent version of Windows installed, you can be sure you’re paying for it. With Linux, you can simply download it and start using it. When something is open source you can also copy and distribute it without worrying about copyright issues. Obviously, though, this is not an advantage that is obvious to those who are buying new computers that come with their operating systems already installed. Yet, if you would like to use Linux, you can always purchase a lower cost computer that does not come with Windows and then download Linux cost free and save yourself some money.
If you want a more secure experience with your computer, Windows falls far short of Linux. Of the three, Linux, Windows or Macintosh, Windows is easily the least secure operating system. Because of its massive popularity and the way it is designed are mainly the reasons for this. If you have windows, then you already know that you are dealing with viruses, spyware, malware, and even other programs that cause problems. Viruses and malware are almost never an issue with Linux users, but there is no computer that is 100% secure. This saves you from having to constantly update your anti-virus software or worry about your privacy being invaded. Linux is definitely safer than Windows, but you still need to share personal information while using common sense. If you want to choose an operating system there are a lot of factors that you need to keep in mind. Deciding between Linux and Windows depends on whether you want the flexibility that Linux can offer you or the extended compatibility that is offered through Windows for the different software programs. This is just the tip of the
iceberg in terms of why you should select either Windows or Linux for your computer.
For more information consult Mark Glatman