Re: [Fsfe-uk] Advantages of Linux over Windows for the home user?

[Richard Smedley]

Tristan Roddis wrote:

> Can anyone think of other things I should mention (specific features for
> the home user, rather than just generalities such as stability,
> flexibility, etc.)

GNU/Linux is Free Software - under the GNU GPL.
It provides and protects the four freedoms.

This means (for home users) such things as
- not being locked into one vendor and their whims
- having your data in open formats
      - not losing ability to read files after upgrades
- not being prey to secret back doors in programs
- security holes rapidly discovered and fixed

Other GNU/Linux advantages to add to your list include
- joining community of worldwide Free Software users
- rejuvenating old hardware and
- chance to try out software not available to
  home user on other platforms

Of course all these advantages also apply to the
BSDs, atheos, GNU/Hurd (it's almost there) and
others...

- Richard

-- 

Richard Smedley
Production Editor, Linux Format

Telephone +44 (0) 1225 442244 ext 5038