A few reasons why Linux is better than Windows - Thursday, June 19, 2008 (Posted on Su_2008-10-05 as Archive-type post.)

Here are my main reasons why Linux is better than Windows (numbered for clarity, not order):


As-is, without needing any downloads/updates, features of the operating system (by default):

1. Free/Illegal to make "unfree"/ISO image available online (legal)/Encouraged to make copies and distribute/redistribute.

2. Drag-and-drop to reposition the placeholders for open windows on the taskbar.

3. Contains virtual desktops.

4. Get two CDs of the operating system shipped to you at absolutely no cost by providing a name and address.

5. Huge amount of dedicated (and "official") community forums/support.

6. Contains an office suite.

7. Multiple languages selectable at boot time.

8. Low minimum system requirements.

9. Contains package management software.

10. Single CD install

11. Can be tested (fully functional) without installing

12. Can hot-plug PS/2 keyboards and mice

13. Contains Perl (Practical Extraction and Report Language)


Note:

--Ubuntu (one of the latest-and-greatest of Linux) had all of these features by December 2007
--Windows Vista Ultimate (the latest-and-greatest of Windows) had none of these features by December 2007



Make your switch today!

Linux(es) on a flash drive - Tuesday, April 29, 2008 (Posted on Su_2008-10-05 as Archive-type post.)

I now have persistent KNOPPIX (bootable), Back Track 2 Live CD (bootable), and Damn Small Linux (QEMU in windows) installed on my 4GB USB flash drive. It took a while to get all of the settings right, but it was worth the time. I can't find any way to use an emulator to boot the drive (not a disk image) from within Windows. 

Yes, I like Linux better than Windows, but I am still much more familiar with Windows. I have only started with Linux less than a year and a half ago, whereas I have used Windows since January of 2000. 

The main reason I prefer Linux over Windows is what I have to pay for the latest and greatest of each - if I want Vista Ultimate, I would have to pay $300-$500 depending on where I shop. Ubuntu, Kubuntu, DSL, KNOPPIX, (which I use,) and most other versions of Linux are available for download for $0. That's how I decided, considering that support for Linux is excellent.