Let’s start politically correct. Throughout this document I say “Linux”, but I mean “GNU/Linux”. Please go to http://www.gnu.org/gnu/linux?and?gnu.html to see why. You want to switch from the DOS/Windows world to Linux? Good idea: Linux is technically superior to DOS, Windows 9x and even Windows NT. But beware: it might not be useful for you. These are the main differences between DOS/Windows and Linux: • Windows runs Microsoft Office and lots of games; is perceived to be easy to install and configure; is notoriously unstable; performs poorly; crashes are frequent. • Linux runs StarOffice, scores of technical software and fewer games; can be tricky to install and configure; is rock solid; performs impeccably; crashes are extremely rare.

It’s up to you to decide what you need. Furthermore, Linux gives you power, but it takes some time to learn how to harness it. Thus, if mostly need commercial sw, or if you don’t feel like learning new commands and concepts, you had better look elsewhere. Be aware that many newcomers give up because of initial difficulties.

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