Switching over to Linux from Windoze?

Question

One reason I am reluctant to simply switch over to Linux is a simple matter of compatability.

As a part-time web developer/ "old geek", I have accumulated quite a few applications that run under the XP operating system. If these same applications will also run under the Linux OS then perhaps there is no reason for my paranoia and I should just take the plunge.

If anyone here has some experience with this issue, I would love to hear your advice!

Answer 1

I admit the switch is not easy if you have been on Windows for a long time. Switching for my neighbors was easy when there first very own PC was installed with Ubuntu. It took me two years to switch, because I used Windows for 10 years. For me I love that I have so many powerful programs on the Linux platform, and most of them are free too. Finding alternative for your programs can take some time. Wine or Crossover will run many of your Windows apps, but likely not all of them, or the newest version. Switching may not be for everyone, but I think the benefits are definitely worth the effort.

Answer 2

a short answer, NO. Windows software and does not natively run on Linux because linux like Mac OS is completely different than Windows.

It is possible to run most Windows software on linux using wine, however this is not always possible and often takes considerable time and effort to get things running.

what I would recommend first is all cases set up your system as dual-boot so you have access to it when the Windows system whenever needed. Second make a list of the programs you use all the time in Windows, most of the general programs related to documents, spreadsheets, image manipulation, and most everything else are available with the change being painless. However some highly specialized programs may not have an equivalent. The best thing to do with them is search the net to find if other people have already posted instructions how to run them under wine, and if not simply run these programs under Windows.

Funny thing is that many people are attached to programs they have been using for years in Windows and because of limited alternatives think this is the only way, if you start using linux with an open mind you may find many options are better approaches to a problem. My favorite example is Gaim Instant Messenger, it works with all the major messaging systems all from one easy-to-use interface. On the other side Skype does not work from Linux and I personally run it from Windows even has a Linux die hard.

Answer 3

As an interim step do a dual boot with your current operating system. This is what I did when I first started to use Linux. In my case I eventually found all the equivalent software in Linux that I used in Windows.

I now only run a dual boot on one machine as my wife has a lot of Windows based games.

Also, you could try running your Widows software in Linux with the WINE windows emulator.

I use UBUNTU on all of my computers (5)

If you require further information, post your questions at the last three listed sites.

Feel free to contact me also.

Answer 4

You are wise to think this over. Switching over completely to Linux can be problematic - especially in the area of finding drivers.

You could do with many have done - when you format - partition your hard drive and run Linux on one partition and Windows on the other.This way if you have trouble finding compatible drivers - you still have something to fall back on. There is definitely a learning curve here as well.

Good luck!

Answer 5

Linux hands down......but.......windows os (operating system) is made for the average "Joe", its sort of touch and go. Linux is alot more secure and stable.. but if u r the average "Joe" i would stick w/ windows. Everything in linux is more complicated, even things as easy as proxy settings can get frustrating. Theres programs that can make windows more stable and secure and u wont have the headaches of trying to configure everything that u get into. So unless ur pretty educated and familiar w/ the linux os ur best bet is to stick w/ windows or u will be asking alot more questions in this forum........

Answer 6

difficult situation. try searching on to google. this will help!