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I like the idea of open-source software. I know that Linux makes a great deal of sense if you are running multiple servers and have a hard-core programmer type on hand to keep all your systems up, since there are no license fees. But my own experience with Ubuntu Linux was not encouraging.

I had a CD shipped from Ubuntu and it loaded easily enough. I planned to install it on an older computer and learn to use Linux. I have programming experience but don't usually do that day to day. I use my computer for writing, analysis of various sorts, and for listening to music.

Right now using Linux for home or small business computing is like buying a car - only you get a marginally funcational vehical that is missing most of the pieces you are used to in cars. The pieces are free, but you have to install them yourself, and the installation often requires considerable expertise. In contrast in Windows Vista (or XP) you get a fully-functioning, luxury vehical. True, with Windows you have to buy some expensive stuff to get up and working. For instance, I paid for Windows Office, Macromedia Studio (for web page design), and Visual Studio (for programming). Sure it cost money, but compared to how much effort it took to develop these applications, and the productivity that results from using them, their cost begins to seem trivial over time.

Ubuntu could not even run my favorite music service, Napster. It had limited ability to connect to devices - like printers. If you are the kind of person who feels you can create your own printer driver with a few days or weeks worth of programming, great. I don't like programming that much, I only do it when I have to.

Nevertheless, Ubuntu and other Linux OS's have promise. They keep Microsoft and Apple on their toes by providing a much cheaper alternative. Ubuntu is pretty amazing in its own way. On the whole it appears to be about where Windows 95 was in terms of usability.

I still intend to run Ubuntu on an old computer. When I find an open-source program that I can't live without, then I'll start using Linux on a regular basis. If I could get free programs that are as good as the ones I use, I'd switch. If I was in an work place with a Linux geek who could run everything so that I could concentrate on my creative work, then I'd let her choose the operating system.

But for now I am very pleased with Windows Vista, which I have found to be far more functional for me than any alternative, and a big productivity booster from XP.

Learn more about this author, William Meyers.
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