Quote Originally Posted by Nate View Post
Linux is free. And although I've never used it, I would choose it over Winders.

Since Linux is free - what I would do is buy your computer (or build it..whatever) and set up a Dual boot system. That gives you the option to boot into which ever system you're more comfortable in for a particular task.
Unfortunately, dual boot systems aren't as easy to setup on a windows machine as it is on a Mac. If you're looking for compatibility, I'd still say windows wins that area, but products that are being released now are becoming more compatable with hardware/software for Unix/Linux

When I started my job (IT Consultant), I was told to take this: http://www.ubuntu.com/getubuntu/download burn it to a cd and when you start up your computer, go into the boot screen and choose boot from cd. Don't install it on your computer because unless you have the xp cd, you won't be able to reinstall it. This saves from having to have a dual boot-up system. Having 2 os's installed on your computer as well takes up more space. I'd do that and get familiar, see if you like it or not.

Remember with Unix/Linux based OS systems, there aren't updates for these so you have to wait for a new release for the OS which means reinstalling the OS again after buying it. Mind you, a lot of the Unix/Linux stuff is beta tested WAY more than windows.

That being said, I have windows vista, and I've used it for over a year. I have not had any problems with it so far. There are a lot of updates for it. Currently you are also able to download the beta version for Windows 7 and can be installed on your computer. Someone at work did it and said even though it's beta, he still hasn't had any issues with it what so ever.

In the end, it all depends on what you want to do with your computer.

Man I feel like a geek!

Cheers,

Mike

Sorry for the novel.