Which Platform is Right for You, Linux or Mac?

Each computer user has a different platform they prefer to use. Many users prefer
to use either Linux or Mac, while others would prefer to stick with Windows since
they know how to use this operating system. So what is the difference between
Linux and Mac and which is better?

Here we will compare the two operating systems to find the differences and then
the choice is yours as to which one you would like to use.

Let's start with Linux.

Linux has been around since the first 1.0 version was completed in 1994.
This operating system was developed and distributed by Linus Torvalds, after
whom the operating system is named.

Although Linux is not for everyone, many who have made the switch to Linux have
decided to stick with it. Linux is such a good operating system that it is drawing
more people to use it than it did when it was first put on the market and has
even drawn in more people in the last five years.

This should come as no surprise since Linux has such an easy installation process,
configuration, and support community. With the help of the support community, if
you run into a problem, chances are someone else has already encountered this same
problem and found a solution.

The one complaint I have read about was that the installation process has been complicated
but this is not a problem any longer. Installation CDs and DVDs are readily available
and you can even run the operating system directly from the installation media without
having to install anything. This will help you learn how to use the product and know
if it is compatible with your hardware. You may purchase the software or download it
from the internet at little to no cost to you.

If you happen to be in the market for a new computer and would like to have Linux as
your operating system, you can purchase a computer with Linux pre-installed. Many
vendors, including Dell, have begun using Linux instead of Windows for the main
operating system.

When you install Linux on a Windows box you are given an option of migrating your
documents and other program settings from your Windows account to an Ubuntu Linux
account. These include Internet Explorer, Firefox, wallpaper, and even your login
avatar. There are other applications that will need to be reinstalled and you will
have to migrate the settings manually.

When it comes to surfing the web, Linux comes with Firefox pre-loaded so all you
need is an internet connection, either wired or wireless will work depending on
the computer you are using. Some desktops even have wireless capabilities so you
will not have wires running every which direction through your home or office.

Although there are a few things that are missing on Linux that you could
find on Windows. These are the automatic wireless network profile, this is available
with Windows Vista. Another thing that is missing is the firewall. Linux has
a full firewall, but this firewall is not available on most desktop releases.
Also, the absence of this firewall is not a problem since most of the viruses and
network attacks are not aimed at Linux.

Linux is not meant to be used as a gaming platform although you can still use games
with Linux if they are not as complex or they are Windows games that are in Linux
with the Wine compatibility layer. Videos and music can still be played with Linux.

Now that you know what you know about Linux, lets change pace and talk about Mac.

When you purchase an Apple computer you are given everything you will need to get
started including the hardware, the operating system, calendar, e-mail, and the
address book. The Mac is available at many locations but may Mac users prefer to
buy from Apple. Mac is one of the fastest growing companies when it comes to sales.
In fact, Mac has more sales than any other operating system vendor thus far.

Mac installation is easy, for those who install it before the computer hits the
shelf. Otherwise, to get Mac you must purchase a Mac computer. This is
because Apple does not support running their operating system on "off the shelf"
hardware. Also, Apple takes the headache out of setting up your new operating
system. When you purchase the new computer it comes with everything including
the documentation you will need when setting up your computer. Simply empty the
box, plug your CPU into the wall, plug in the keyboard and mouse, plug in the
monitor, and hit the power switch. The Mac then detects the internet connection,
if there is one available, and will walk you through the configuration and setup.

Nearly all formats are compatible between Windows and Mac, making it easier for
those of us who are making the transition from Windows to Mac. All you need to
do is connect your Mac and PC and simply drag any needed folders from your PC
to their new found home on your Mac. For further assistance Apple offers an online
guide for the importing of files. When you decide to connect to the internet it is
as simple as connecting your cables or activating your wireless connection.

When it comes to entertainment on your new Mac, gaming is not the thing to do.
The Mac is not set up for gaming, yet it is set up to do video and music editing.
Mac users even suggest sticking to Windows if you plan on using your computer for
gaming.

Knowing the differences of each operating system, the question you now have to
answer is; Which do you prefer?

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