Linux Vs. Microsoft Windows on a Desktop or Laptop. What is better and why?
I know it is more common on Server platforms, but what about Desktops and Laptops? Also, would you buy a system with Linux if it did everything you needed to do such as Graphics, Spreadsheets, Word Processing, Internet Browsing, E-Mail at an extremely low cost with high value?
Tagged with: desktops • e mail • laptops • linux • server platforms • spreadsheets • word processing
Filed under: Laptop vs Desktop
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It depends.
Linux is good because it is cheap.
Linux is bad because it has no support and it requires expertise to use.
Windows is bad because it is proprietary and expensive.
Windows is good because it is supported & compatable.
I know one thing about Linux, and that is it is more secure than Windows. That’s all I know.
Security = Linux
Ease of use, greater variety of programs to choose from = Windows
Windows *can* be perfectly secure, it just takes a bit more work from the user. Keep current with your update, use a firewall and and an antivirus/spyware program and you’ll be fine. I haven’t had a virus or similar problem on my windows pc in over 5 years, and I only had them then because I underestimated the value of frequent updates and a firewall, heh.
Linux does all the things you listed. I know Windows inside and out, I can tell you how to edit the registry and system settings to get maximum performance and speed out of Windows without sacrificing any services. On Linux, let’s face it, I don’t want to use a command line to debug drivers, forget it! One reason I don’t like Linux is because the drivers are a pain to install and not all of my hardware is supported (but it is under Windows XP). Also, Linux is really bad for gamers (like me) as there aren’t games on Linux, at least none that I would play. Low Cost… hmmm, okay, I paid $15 for Windows XP Pro under the old student discount program at my college. I am also using free anti-virus and antispyware applications. I’m sticking with Windows, Linux is too much of a pain but great for most home users and for those who don’t want to worry about spyware and viruses. I am not a home user… I am a Windows XP power user. Windows XP is just as safe as Linux if Home users would take more responsibility for their own security and you’d make my job a lot easier. I don’t enjoy removing hundreds of spyware and viruses from PCs when common sense security practices could fix it. And unless you really need your data… I’m going to format the drive in those cases.
microsoft windows on a desktop because it is a lot better than everyone else
I have never heard of a Linux laptop, although there is Linux for Pocket PC.
Linux distros will come with all of the software to do the above mentioned things. The problem would be drivers for your hardware in most cases.
Windows are good because you know them!
If you have knowledge of linux/ time to google when theres some problem on your computer, then Linux is cool. Its faster than windows, as theres no antivirus, firewall etc running. Its especially good for the same reasons on Laptops. But then, if u know little about computers, one who just checks mail, does some general browsing and shuts down computer, then better use Windows. This way u wont endup in such problems as u dont know what to do. U could probably loose data, but then u know u need to reinstall windows ;).
As for security matters, Windows architecture is actually not designed for networking and multiple users, so it cannot be as secure as linux.
Long ago I would say Linux cuz its more freeform and u can do more things. But, now Windows Vista might make Linux a run for its money.