This should give a rough idea about switching from Windows — Mac — Linux…

pcmaclinux

This is a guide for switching from Windows to Linux or any other Operating System.

There are a few things you need to plan before switching from Windows to Linux. Before you switch, you need to make sure you have the following points covered.

  • Why do you want to switch?
  • What benefits do you think you will get from switching?
  • List all the software you use on Windows and find alternatives to use it on Linux.

Most people switch from Widows to Linux for the fun of it. Mainly to get familiar with the UNIX side of things. That is the reason I switched from Windows to FreeBSD a while back. There may be other reasons; maybe you are sick and tired of Windows…

The first and utmost benefit you will get from switching from Windows to Linux / any UNIX flavoured Operating System is, knowledge. You will be amazed how the other side of the world work. In my opinion, Windows operating systems is pretty much like spoon feeding. The operating system will tell end user, what to do and how to do it. Rather than make you think about the solution. So, when you use Linux, you will have more than one solution to a problem. However, some people prefer this method of spoon feeding, but some don’t. But, if they prefer windows method, they probably won’t be switching…

Some people do switch because they claim Linux is more stable than Windows. Of course UNIX flavoured Operating System is much stable than Windows and you can run the machine for months, even years when it comes to FreeBSD without a single reboot. If you are one of those people who want to leave your machine for months without a reboot, you are better off switching to FreeBSD.

It all depends on how you use your Windows OS. Quite frankly, you are going to be limited in some cases. Some people won’t agree with this fact, but when you switch your primary Operating System, you will be limited in some aspects. You have to find alternative software for the ones you use on Windows; but when it comes to most of the software, there is always a UNIX alternative. Nevertheless, I have yet to find an alternative for Adobe Photoshop / Dreamweaver. So if you use that software or any special software, then you might need to think twice before switching.

On the other hand, it is still possible to run Windows Software on Linux by using an emulator like WINE or Crossover Office. But it has to be your last resort, and I would like to point out, there will be stability issues when running emulators. I.e. Lags, freeze, etc is common)

This is a good site to find alternative software: http://www.linux.ie/newusers/alternatives.php

Conclusion:

If you are new to Linux or any other Linux / UNIX flavoured Operating Systems, I would suggest you install it on a spare box (computer) and familiar yourself with it. It all depends on how well you know the operating system.

You now have an option to run Linux (Slax, knoppix) Live via a CD rom. This means, you don’t really have to install it into your hard disk. This is what I would recommend someone who wants to use learn or want to familiar themselves with Linux and still keep the Windows OS install onto the hard disk. This way, you will still have a choice on doing work on Windows when you have to; and this is what I would recommend to someone who is switching the first time.

Good Luck.

Popularity: 2% [?]

You Should Also Check Out This Post:

More Active Posts: