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Bala
01-29-2006, 12:59 AM
Does anyone have any experience with 2005-2006 linux systems? Linux has
made some nice improvements over the last couple of years to match windows in
desktop usability. My main machine is WinXP pro. I am thinking
of moving to Linux on all my other machines.

There are at least a dozen Linux distributors - mostly their claim to fame has
been on the server end. Linspire Linux specializes for the desktop. Now there are
a plethora of apps, including office alternative for almost free!

The only problem I anticipate {potentially serious problem} is finding drivers for older hardware.

__________________________________________________ __________
To the potential wise guys out there - no I am not going to a Mac.
I don't care for Steve Jobs any more than I care for Gates.
JustRalph
01-29-2006, 01:52 AM
The only problem I anticipate {potentially serious problem} is finding drivers for older hardware.

not just older hardware. sometimes it takes a long time to get a driver for the newer stuff. That is why I no longer run (haven't for a few years) any version of Linux. I got tired of chasing down drivers and then waiting for a "better one" Otherwise .........I would run it on everything if i could.
michiken
01-29-2006, 09:09 AM
Here is a link to a website that ranks Linux Distributions (http://distrowatch.com/)

I am running Fedora Core 4 (http://fedora.redhat.com/)and have found it to be extremely stable. I run a dual boot configuration with 'Winblows' for those times I need proprietary applications. For tech and driver support, I read the Fedora Forums (http://forums.fedoraforum.org)

If you have broadband, I suggest that you download a Linux Live CD (You can burn the OS to a CD and run it without having to commit to a hard drive installation). This way you can test out the drivers to see if they are compatible with your old hardware. Try out Live CD's from Ubuntu, Slax, Mepis or Knoppix distros.

I have not tried Linspire but you should not have to pay for open source software. I have tried Mandriva and found it too juvenile looking for my tastes.