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If you are reading this article, then most likely you have been researching Linux for a while, but you are unsure whether or not to take the plunge. After all, you shelled out a lot of money for the family computer. Installing Linux will drastically change what you can and cannot do with your computer.
While doing your research you will likely see many words used to describe the Linux operating system. You will see words like powerful, secure, efficient, fast, user-friendly, and free. These are all very important aspects of any operating system, but, at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is whether or not Linux can do what you need it to do.

This is a simple guide to help you decide. By learning what Linux is, and what it can and cannot do, you will be armed with the knowledge it takes to make an informed decision.

What is Linux?

Linux is an operating system that was originally designed by Linus Torvalds in 1991. He put it on the Internet and made its inner working available to everyone. This attracted a large community of people who wanted to use and develop the operating system on a completely volunteer basis. Over the course of the last seventeen years this community has grown beyond anyone's expectations and is now a powerful alternative to other commercial offerings.

Do I need to be a computer expert to use Linux?

Absolutely Not! While it is true that years ago Linux was very complicated and required a lot of time to master, these days all of the common tasks are point-and-click and require little to no time to understand and use. If you consider yourself to be a competent user, and can do more than the basics in Windows, then understanding Linux likely will come easily.

How difficult is it to install Linux?

That depends. When you get Linux, you are actually getting a distribution of Linux. A distribution contains a wide selection of software, as well as an installation program. How easy it is to install depends on how good the installation program of the distribution is. Ubuntu, and its derivatives, are known for being among the easiest to install.
It is important to keep in mind, however, that if you have not or would not feel comfortable installing Windows, then the installation process of any operation system might be tricky for you.

Can I use both Linux and Windows on the same computer?

Yes, you can, although it does take a little more knowledge to accomplish. Using both operating systems is called dual-booting. When you do this you

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