[SOLVED] should i use it?

[avner]

hi,

i'm thinking about starting to use linux as my operating system but i'm not sure a few stuff.

which of the programs are recommended? i have no clue about computers basically, so i should consider that/

is it installed on top of any other operating system, i have, i.e windows? i couldn't understand from posts which i read about this.

do i need to reinstall the programs i have now on my computer? would i loose any information i have in already installed programs (meaning configurations i made in my browser for example)?

and finally, i'd appreciate if someone could tell also about the downsides of linux, in comparison to windows xp. i'm sure there are some...

thank you,

avner

[oz]

Hello and welcome to the forums!

Check the link in my signature for lots of good information on getting started with Linux. I think you'll find answers to most of your questions there.

Good luck with Linux should you decide to try it, and the same with your current OS if you decide to stick with it.

[yancek]

There is a lot of good information in the link in ozars' post.
Which programs would be recommended would depend upon you and what you want to use your computer to do. There are thousands of programs for Linux and hundreds of different distributions.

Generally, you would install your Linux distribution on a separate partition from whatever windows version you have. It is possible to install some distributions inside windows, Ubuntu and its derivatives with what is called a wubi install.

You should not need to reinstall programs as what you have now would be on a separate partition. You may be able to find programs made for Linux that are comparable to what you use on windows.

I would suggest reading as much as you can at the link above, particularly if you have never installed an operating system before as is the case with most windows users.

One downside to Linux is also a positive, its variety and the choices available. Drivers for some hardware components may not be available because the manufacturers don't provide information needed to write them. Gaming seems to be something people prefer to use windows for. A lot of the rest is just a matter of personal choice/opinion.

[avner]

Thanks!

the link was really informative and both replies as well.

[oz]

Thanks!

the link was really informative and both replies as well.

If you should decide to try Linux, don't hesitate to start new threads with the details relating to any issues that you encounter and we'll try our best to help you through it.

Good luck!