I've already had many problems with Windows' authentication system. The first problem was when I naively thought that when buying a Windows 95 I could have a free upgrade to Windows 98. After all, I bought the program and updates should've been free (at least that was what I thought). Afterwards came another problem when I bought a computer with Windows XP (Home Edition) and after doing a hardware upgrade, Windows didn't recognize it was the same computer and asked me for the authentication number. I didn't even know I had to keep such number.

I've grown tired of Windows, the operating system is expensive and although the company is extremely lucrative, they keep releasing new releases full of bugs and security risks. I decided then to go with opensource and try to transition into a dual boot Windows and Ubuntu 7.10.

I studied a lot about the most recent Ubuntu release, did several tests with the Live CD and then decided that I would do a more extensive test with the operating system installed on my computer. Before going with a dual boot computer, I got used to several opensource programs that would be available in both platforms such as OpenOffice, GIMP, Thunderbird and others. Since Windows is very complicated to accept another operating system install, I called in an expert to help me through the process.

Everything went pretty smooth. I set aside 17GB, created a SWAP partition, another one for Ubuntu and the rest pretty much ran by itself. After everything was ready I openned Synaptic and I felt like a kid at the petting zoo. Everything was available, ready for me and pretty friendly. Between a selection of hundreds of programs I installed Pidgin, Amarok, K3B, KeepassX, VLC, and others. I also added Skype with video but this was through their own website. Why hasn't Windows created their own Synaptic? Bill Gates isn't well known for being original so he might as well copy the idea.

 

 

 

 

Or showing everything as a wall:

 

I can also switch to different programs much better since I get a preview window (not an icon).

I really liked the change. Currently I work exclusively with the computer, using an enormous variety of programs. I can do the vast majority of my tasks on Ubuntu, which means a that I reduce costs greatly while keeping the same level of output. Another great benefit of this switch is that I can now really feel like I own the computer, I can upgrade it or purchase another one without the operating system complaining about it.

Ubuntu has finally matured to compete well with Windows and with the help of the opensource and free software community, convert users to a cheaper and more productive system.

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