Comparing Operating Systems – Windows Vs Linux
Just because you and everyone you know has a Windows-based computer, except for a few Macintosh friends, doesn’t mean that other operating systems aren’t also used. Linux is an open source operating system, which can be downloaded free by anyone, and it has a whole community of people who wouldn’t trade. Let’s take a closer look at Linux and how it compares to Windows in various ways.
Although people who are technically minded may tell you that Linux is simple to use, this may not prove true for everybody. Linux takes more attention and study than Windows, as it’s made more for programmers and people who are used to playing with technology. Although both operating systems are very highly technologically advanced, Windows has the user in mind and Linux designed for the programmer. The Linux OS is actually updated on a regular basis. Windows is very easy to install, especially in comparison to Linux which takes a little know-how. The best way to determine if Linux is the OS for you is to do research on the topic. Learning how to use Linux is definitely possible for anyone but it will take some time to get used to it. Perhaps the main benefit of Linux is that it is open-source which means that it is free to download and use. Windows, on the other hand, is quite expensive. Buying the latest version of Windows 7, for example, can cost close to $100. Sure most of the new PCs come with Windows pre-installed but you can still be sure that you are honestly paying for it. With Linux, all that you must do is download it and you can start using it. Open source also means that you can copy and give out the software without having to worry about any copyright infringement. Of course, this advantage might not be so apparent to those who have chosen to buy a computer that comes with an operating system already installed. If you want to save money, you can always buy a computer that doesn’t cost as much that doesn’t come with Windows and then download Linux cost free.
The area of security, is where most of the advantages are with Linux compared to Windows. When compared to either Linux or Macintosh, the operating system of Windows is the least secure. This is because of its huge popularity and also in the way it is designed. Most of the troublesome programs are aimed right at Windows, and some of these are viruses, spyware and malware. While no computer is 100% secure, Linux users almost never have to worry about issues such as viruses or malware. This saves you from having to constantly update your anti-virus software or worry about your privacy being invaded. While you still have to use common sense about sharing personal information on any computer, Linux is definitely safer than Windows.
No system by itself, works the best for all computer users. Both Linux and Windows have their good and bad points. The computer that does what you want, might not do what another person wants. If you’re someone who likes to learn the inner workings of things, you may prefer Linux. You will want to stick with Windows, if you want things user-friendly as well as simple.
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