First off, I am very happy with my Windows PC. Running XP Pro, I have very few problems with it. I know Windows takes a beating for the reboots, the security issues, the cost, etc. However, the bottom line for me is….can I get my work done easily and can I do the things I want to do without the computer getting into my way? The computer is supposed to be there to help….not to cause headaches. And I have been fine with my PC.
Now, for a contradiction….I love playing with new software. I love trying out stuff. As a result, I frequently load software onto my PC that is less than “production”. For someone who doesn’t like the computer to be unreliable or a headache, this would seem to be a goofy thing to do. Yes, it is.
My desire to try out new things has brought me to trying out Linux desktops. The idea of a free desktop operating system…one that can be readily downloaded, that has lots of cool software built into it…..one that “just works” when I install it is very interesting. I know of many situations where an OS like this is perfect.
With all this in mind, I begin a personal evaluation of the different Linux distros. A personal review of the operating systems from a user and slightly skilled user’s perspective. It is NOT a review of them with an agenda in my pocket…or a desire to dupe anyone. I don’t want to have to know shell commands, or special configuration files to make something work.
NOTES
- For now, I am not going down the Apple path. That look is definitely down the road….but for now, I will be looking at completely free options. Ones that can be easily executed on my equipment.
- I will be testing options in either a virtual machine or as Live CD’s (bootable CDs). Later on, if I find something I really like, I may set my machine up as a dual boot.
- I will be looking at the OS as well as software I consider critical (email, internet browser, spreadsheet, CD/DVD player, etc)
So far, I have the following OS’s on my list. If anyone who reads this has other suggestions, I am very interested in them. Please post your thoughts.
Linus OS’s I will be trying
- Freespire
- Ubuntu
- MEPIS
- Xandros
- Mandriva
- PCLinuxOS
- OpenSUSE
- Fedora
As I said, there is no hidden agenda to paint something as more than it is….or a desire to pan it because I have a Windows prejudice. Also, since I have no beef with Microsoft, this is not a desire to hammer at them. Finally, although I can usually feel pretty comfortable opening up command windows and firing off things, I do not want to do this. I want this review to be one that is from a true user’s perspective. I know what it takes to load XP on a standard machine and get going with it….I want to know the same for these.
So, if you are interested, feel free to stop by over the next few weeks and see how this goes. And feel free to post your thoughts and opinions.
