Computer nerds all over the world have been praising the Linux operating system for years. You’ll never catch them relying on Windows. Before you make the switch to Linux, though, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide whether it will meet your needs.

Advantages of Linux

• Free software – Linux is an open source system that allows users to
  

  Image via Wikipedia

  access code and make adjustments. Much of the accompanying software works according to the same communal perspective. That means you can download software without spending any money or breaking the law.

• System stability – When you say “hello” to Linux, you can say “goodbye” to crashes. You won’t find an operating system with more stability than Linux. You can leave the OS running for hundreds of days without restarting it once.
• Security – Linux offers more security options than most operating systems. When you switch to Linux, you gain tools that will keep unwanted visitors out of your files.
• Multitask – Linux can handle several large jobs at the same time without slowing down. That means you can play an intense video game while waiting for a large document to finish printing.

Disadvantages of Linux

• Compatibility – The biggest problem with Linux is that you and your friends aren’t using it already. Hardware and software designers usually choose to make products that will make the most money. Since Linux only has a small audience of users, they often focus on products for more popular operating systems. That can make it hard for you to find compatible options for your computer.

Now that you know the biggest advantages and disadvantages, will you make the switch to Linux?