I currently have a computer with a celeron processor, 32MB RAM, and Win98. I am considering switching to Linux since I have heard so much about its performance as compared to the Win OS and many other OSs for that matter. I have also noticed that many serious computer gurus are running Linux. Now I have several question so that I can determine if this is a suitable option for me:
1. What are the advantages and disadvantages to switching from Win to Linux and vice versa? Why do most people switch in the first place?
2. What is the difference between Linux and Unix?
3. If I finally decide to switch, I am worried about the fact that I have many important files on my computer that are only compatible with MS Office. I am aware that there are free programs avaliable for Linux, that would allow me do word processing, etc., but is there anyway to convert my files? Also we have PCs and MACs at school, I can currently work on the same files at home and at school, would Linux allow me to do this?
4. If I decide to make the big switch where do I get the software, what version should I get? How do I install it, as I have never formatted my hard drive, etc? Where do I get other software that I might need? Do I need to worry about drivers, say for my printer?
5. I have a 56k (winmodem, I think?) and I am currently using a couple of free ISPs, what are my options under Linux?
6. Did I miss anything?
If anyone can help me answer these questions or point me in the right direction, I would really appreciate it. Thanks in advance for your time and consderation!
1. What are the advantages and disadvantages to switching from Win to Linux and vice versa? Why do most people switch in the first place?
2. What is the difference between Linux and Unix?
3. If I finally decide to switch, I am worried about the fact that I have many important files on my computer that are only compatible with MS Office. I am aware that there are free programs avaliable for Linux, that would allow me do word processing, etc., but is there anyway to convert my files? Also we have PCs and MACs at school, I can currently work on the same files at home and at school, would Linux allow me to do this?
4. If I decide to make the big switch where do I get the software, what version should I get? How do I install it, as I have never formatted my hard drive, etc? Where do I get other software that I might need? Do I need to worry about drivers, say for my printer?
5. I have a 56k (winmodem, I think?) and I am currently using a couple of free ISPs, what are my options under Linux?
6. Did I miss anything?
If anyone can help me answer these questions or point me in the right direction, I would really appreciate it. Thanks in advance for your time and consderation!