| With so many Microsoft Windows related viruses, | | | | to work with a few, or just one. Also, the |
| errors, and other software problems, many average | | | | open-source operating system demands that the |
| computer users are looking at alternative operating | | | | user know how to work with and modify the |
| system platforms, such as Linux. It is important that | | | | program - a task that is usually very difficult for the |
| users, frustrated with Windows, don't simply install a | | | | average computer user familiar with Windows. Even |
| version of Llinux without knowing what they are in | | | | the installation of Linux can be a chore if you are not |
| for. There are many important differences between | | | | familiar with Linux terminology.What I am getting at |
| Windows and Linux that anyone considering a change | | | | here is that Linux is great for those who are willing to |
| should be fully aware of. Herein we discuss some of | | | | take the time to learn the program, pick out and |
| the similarities and differences between Windows and | | | | install a GUI they like (this may take a while!), and |
| Linux so you can get a better idea as to which | | | | prefer choice over simple usability. Windows is easy |
| operating system is really best for you.The major | | | | to learn, easy to run, and does not demand a lot |
| difference between Linux and Windows is the | | | | from its users. This OS is appropriate for a majority |
| open-source nature of Linux and closed-source nature | | | | of the general public who simply want something that |
| of Windows. Linux, as an open-source OS, can be | | | | runs right out of the box with little configuration. |
| modified by the user as he/ she sees fit. Open | | | | People also want universal compatibility, and don't |
| source really means that anyone can modify the | | | | want to have to deal with constantly modifying their |
| underlying code, and that no one completely owns it. | | | | OS. Price wise, Linux is super cheap compared with |
| Microsoft Windows, on the other hand, is not an | | | | Windows. For advanced users who have the desire |
| operating system you can modify easily - it was | | | | to modify their OS, Linux is the by far the best |
| designed to work a particular way with a certain user | | | | choice. If you don't have the time or knowledge, |
| interface as designated by Microsoft software | | | | however, stay with Microsoft Windows for the time |
| engineers.The consequences of Linux being an | | | | being, and be sure to download all updates and |
| open-source OS are many. Because you can modify | | | | security patches as often as possible!Bradley James is |
| the code, and because there are many user | | | | a senior editor at SciNet.cc, a website containing |
| interfaces out there (GUIs), there are usually | | | | many helpful consumer electronics review articles. For |
| compatibility issues with various software applications. | | | | more information on Windows and Linux OS, please |
| Some software may be designed to work with | | | | visit our Linux vs Windows webpage. |
| multiple Linux GUIs, while others many only be able | | | | |