eVantage Solution

Saturday, August 8, 2009

What to do with your old PC

If you have recently upgraded your PC or have an old PC collecting dust. I have a great idea for your old PC, make it a Linux computer. There are many good reasons to have a "spare" computer around. If you have ever had anyone over that wanted to check their email, Myspace or cruise the internet, you know how that can turn out. After they leave you end up with all sorts of things that your would rather not have on you machine.

A spare Linux computer is not just another computer, it's pretty much bullet proof backup machine. No matter what they did, you would not have to worry about getting the latest and greatest Windows virus, worm, trojan, spyware or any type of malware. These types of bad things are created for Windows and are rendered useless on a Linux computer. And if you just ended up with a few extra files laying around on the desktop, they can be easily removed and you will not have to worry about breaking the computer.

Most people have never heard of Linux and those who have tend to shy away if they have only used a Windows computer. Originally Linux was made by geeks for geeks. The learning curve was very steep, but Linux is a very powerful operating system and worth the efforts. Over the years geeks around the world (known as the open source community) wanted to make Linux easier to use. Today, Linux has hit the mainstream and many of my guest do not even know they are using Linux while visiting me. With the introduction of Lindows a few years ago, the other distributions of Linux (there are lots of them) started to integrate more and more user friendly components for the average Joe.

Here is a list of the Linux that I current use, that are considered mainstream.
  • Ubuntu : Very easy to use and maintain.
  • Xubuntu: A trimmed down version of Ubuntu for older PCs.
  • Ubuntu Server: Gaining traction in the server market.
  • Fedora : This is the cutting edge and testing grounds for Red Hat Enterprise.
  • Red Hat Enterprise: The leading Linux server with outstanding support.
  • CentOs: A direct copy of Red Hat Enterprise.
  • WattOS: very small and light made for older computer (really old).
Linux has just about everything that Windows has to offer.
  • Web Browsing with Firefox.
  • Email using Thunderbird.
  • Open Microsoft office documents with Open Office
  • Music and video player
  • Photo Manager (compatible with most cameras)
  • Calendar and Contact Manager
  • Wide range of printers are supported.
  • Plus thousands of software titles and most are free and easy to install.

While Linux sounds great, there are a few quirks. But overall Linux makes a great web surfing and email machine. And for those willing to go beyond the basics Linux can do just about anything, except wash your dishes and clean your house... One day I hope that will be available.

For more information about converting your old PC in to a Linux PC, please let us know.

eVantage Solution
Serving the west Hernando County area.

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