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Besides all of the people who prefer Macintosh, the majority of people who use computers think that Windows is the only operating system. There are a bunch of people who like using Linux, an operating system that anyone can download for free. We will see how Linux compares with Windows by taking a closer look.

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. This is not to say that Windows users do not like technology. It is just that they can use the technology in a far different and much more simpler way. Different editions of Linux exist on the web, and new versions come out quite regularly. Unlike Windows, Linux cannot be installed by hitting a few keys on the keyboard. If Linux is the operating system that you need, you will not know about until you read up on it a little more. It might take a while, but if you do your research and practice, Linux might be the OS for you. Linux’s primary benefit is that it is open source software which means you can get it for free. Windows, however, costs quite a lot. Buying the newest version of Windows 7, to use one example, could run you 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. If something is open source, it also gives you the ability to copy it and distribute it without having to worry about running awry of copyright issues. That truth, though, might not be so obvious to the people who are buying a new computer that comes with it’s operating system already installed. Yet if you want to use Linux, you could purchase a lower cost computer without Windows and then download Linux for free and save money.

When comparing Linux to Windows, you will find that security issues is where Linux has a big advantage. If you want a secure operating system on your computer, then you would choose either Macintosh or Linux over Windows. The main reasons for this come from being so popular and the design that is used. If you have windows, then you already know that you are dealing with viruses, spyware, malware, and even other programs that cause problems. 100% security on a computer doesn’t exist, but malware and viruses are almost never experienced by Linux users. You don’t have to constantly worry about your privacy being invaded or always updating your anti-virus software. When you are sharing information that is personal, you need to be careful on any computer, even on Linux and their better security.

No system by itself, works the best for all computer users. There are good and bad points that come with both Linux and Windows. The computer that does what you want, might not do what another person wants. If you’re someone who likes to learn the inner workings of things, you may prefer Linux. Windows is the best option for all of those people who like things when they are user friendly.

For more information consult Mark Glatman