So you're a Windows user that uses the computer for the following tasks:
a) Browsing the internet daily
b) Checking your email
c) Chatting with friends online
d) Working with documents , spreadsheets and presentations
e) Watching videos and playing music
f) Working on your digital photo album
g) Updating your personal blog / business website
f) Doing schoolwork / research
You are interested in other software programs but the costs are just too high. The new Microsoft Vista windows version is going to be released soon, but you're just not looking to spend 200+ dollars for a new version with a few more bells and whistles.
What are your other options if you are looking for a change in your home computer experience. Well you have two very good options:
a) Novel Linux Suse 10
b) Ubuntu Linux 6.06
Both are complete Linux-based operating systems (your Windows programs will not run on these), freely available with both community and professional support. With each of these operating systems you receive all the software required to do the tasks described above and more. On top of that you'll have access to all software updates for free.
Before making the switch I would suggest that you go to the above websites and read about Linux and the world wide community behind it. Also both of these Linux environments have "Live CD" versions. This means that you can download a full version of the software put in on DVD and run it without removing Windows. This is a great way to try out all the software before deciding on switching.
If you have any questions, let me know and I'll try to answer them.
