Why use Linux for desktop use?

C

calvincoetzee

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Hi all Linux fans,

I was just wondering what the reason is for using Linux, I used to use it for about 4 months and many times before but I find Windows much more comfortable.

I'm a techie so Linux doesn't scare me away, but the fact that I can do so much more in Windows, with a lot less effort therefore I don't see the gain in using Linux.

A few things I like about it is that it's free, stable and fast.

What I don't like is struggling with everything (unless you know how) for example the first time you install graphics drivers and one doesn't have internet it's really confusing.
Also media playback is a big concern for me, I know it's possible, maybe it's easy but for me it's just caused major frustration.

Please give me your thoughts on why you choose to use Linux, the free argument can't be used since most PC's come with Windows OEM installed.
 
There are less virusses on Linux, and it is a challenge, that is why I am learning to use it.

I also like that Linux runs well on aging hardware. Got a 2.4 ghz pc and 2 ghz laptop that I don't want to get rid of.
 
If you have to ask "why linux?", then it's not for you. People who benefit most from linux are those who know nothing about computers (because then there's not such a steep learning curve to get used to the RIGHT way vs the Windows way) and those who know a LOT about computers (those who are willing to put in the effort to figure things out, just because).

You have to remember, that before you knew anything about Windows, you would have struggled to install graphics drivers too.

Open-source operating systems have the benefit of being reviewed by lots of people around the world for security issues, while proprietary-code operating systems don't have this luxury.

Linux makes use of your hardware better. It can be extremely efficient with resources, or it can be configured to give you amazing eye-candy. This customisability leads to the next benefit;

Linux can be customised to look and behave however you prefer.

Linux updates are released daily / weekly. Windows updates are released monthly (if you're lucky). Don't you think there should be more security fixes ?? :confused:

There are many more reasons to use Linux instead of Windows that cannot be summarised in a single post. In addition, reasons vary from person to person.

4 months is not long enough to get a GOOD grasp of what an operating system like Linux has to offer.

If a new Linux user takes the time to read up a LITTLE bit, all the common issues will not be issues for them.
 
Linux is by large still an enthusiast's OS which is just another way of saying you have 1000 ways to do things on it and that is why users find it hard at first.
I myself used Linux for three years but after my PC was stolen I just didn't have the patience to setup Linux like I want it, so I went back to windows. I was getting tired of the Dual Booting to play games anyway.
 
It can run for years on any HW without a reboot and without getting sluggish like windows.
And no need to force update for security reasons because a new worm is out that exploits a programmers fault.
 
Linux is just cool and fun. You can tweak it, break it and it will still be recoverable. I just find it more productive for development, but it is a personal choice and its just a tool in a big tool box.
 
I love it for hosting your own website because
- no risk of viruses
- low power usage
- fast
- easy
- reliable
- and lot open source available
 
okay thanks for all the answers, I know it is a very powerfull OS, but still not convincing enough for me to switch over.
I don't want to argue against the good points of Linux, I do believe you have to have a passion for Linux / have a grudge against Microsoft.

Feel free to post more ideas, I am interested in what people have done with their Linux systems to suit their specific needs.
It is a versitile OS so I'm awaiting creative ideas which people have come up with to hack their system to their liking :)
 
I still use windows......
COD4 is waiting ....
Cheers
Linux does not support Quickbooks 7
 
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