How to Compare Windows and Linux
January 2nd, 2012
If you look at popular models of computers, you might think that Windows is the only operating system people use, with the exception of those who prefer Macintosh. 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. Windows, on the other hand, is made for people who are mainly interested in using the technology for specific purposes without necessarily understanding it. 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. Anyone that is willing to spend some time learning the Linux system will definitely be a candidate for this OS. Linux’s primary benefit is that it is open source software which means you can get it for free. Windows, though, is very expensive. The latest version of Windows 7, for example, will cost 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. Because of its massive popularity and the way it is designed are mainly the reasons for this. If you have windows, then you already know that you are dealing with viruses, spyware, malware, and even other programs that cause problems. Viruses and malware are almost never an issue with Linux users, but there is no computer that is 100% secure. 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. There are many factors to consider when choosing an operating system. Deciding between Linux and Windows depends on whether you want the flexibility that Linux can offer you or the extended compatibility that is offered through Windows for the different software programs. This is just the tip of the
iceberg in terms of why you should select either Windows or Linux for your computer.
For more information consult Mark Glatman