Linux vs. Linux: Which Distro Should You Dump Windows For?
Date: Sep 16, 2005
I'll be honest with you; I'm not a full-fledged Linux Geek. I'm one of those poor suckers who cut his teeth on the Windows OS, learning bad habits and working within the limitations of the sandbox set up for me by Microsoft. This is a good thing for you, since I'm better-equipped to tell you how the different Linux distributions compare to Windows, in addition to how they compare to each other. Now granted, most people using Linux today probably started out with Windows or even DOS; however, I still work with Windows in addition to Linux, so I'm specially equipped to help you choose a distribution that's right for you.
I've been working with Linux for a little over a year now, and I haven't switched over entirely as yet (because I still need to use proprietary software like 3ds max and many Adobe and Macromedia products), but if and when I do, I want to be able to choose a distribution that's familiar to me, and that won't leave me longing for Windows or a certain application. I'm going to narrow things down a bit for myself and choose a Linux flavor that offers the best balance of tools, performance, and price. Now you may say, "But I thought Linux was free?" And you'd be right. Linux itself is free, but the manuals, support, boxes, CDs, and extra software aren't necessarily. I'll take these all into consideration as I make my choice of the best Linux desktop replacement for Windows.
Terms and Criteria
First I need to cover a few of the terms people use when referring to certain aspects of Linux, as well as the criteria that each distribution should meet. So what's a distribution anyway? The term distribution, or "distro," refers to the Linux operating system packaged with a selection of free and open source software applications (and ideally an installer). The software is packaged by groups, organizations, and even individuals located all over the world. Technically, the Linux operating system consists of the Linux kernel (or core) and the GNU system. GNU is a recursive acronym, meaning "GNU's not Unix" and is pronounced "Guh-noo." We'll be looking at some of the more popular distributions, some of which are free and others that will cost you money. Most of the pay distributions offer a free version, although they're usually less full-featured and often stripped down. Root, for those of you who aren't familiar with the term, is similar to the administrator in Windows. On many Windows systems users are logged in as the system administrator by default, which can cause security issues since an administrator can do anything he wants on the system, including executing malicious software.
The criteria each distro must meet includes features, affordability, ease-of-use, and support. For example, do you want to be able to do your day-to-day work without opening a terminal? Would you pay for certain features like software that more closely resembles Microsoft Office or even allows you to run Office right within Linux? Which distro has the best paid and community support? And which offers the most choices of optional software to install?
I won't dig too deeply into the intricacies of creating partitions and dual booting between Linux and Windows, except for a couple of things. One is that Ubuntu and Debian don't have graphical installers; they're a little more daunting and tougher to set up as dual boot configurations. The other is the fact that I've found it easier and less scary to create a Linux partition from within Windows using a commercial application such as Partition Magic. Several Linux distributions include partitioning software and can handle the task of partitioning a Windows drive to make room for Linux, but if you choose to go this route (and even if you use Partition Magic), always be sure to back up your data. Speaking of Debian and Ubuntu, I'll be covering those two, along with SuSE, Fedora Core, Mandriva, Linspire, and Xandros as I strive to find the heir-apparent to Windows. Unfortunately I can't cover everyone's favorite distro as there are literally hundreds to choose from.
The Distros
So why switch to Linux in the first place? First there are the security benefits, including built-in firewalls, root privileges, and the fact that Linux isn't susceptible to malicious Windows executables, including spyware and viruses. Being required to enter a root password ensures that you won't accidentally install or uninstall software or otherwise foul up your operating system. Another benefit is cost. While you might end up paying as much as $129 for a Linux business distribution, it includes everything you need to begin working productively, from office software to e-mail, web browsing, and even specialized applications that run Windows programs on the Linux desktop. Of course, many distributions are free, and that's a hard price to beat. Finally, many people are looking for a change and want to escape the constant dangers of viruses and spyware, expensive software and upgrades and sometimes even the dreaded "Blue Screen of Death," the all-out system crashes that can occur when running Windows.
Different distros have different uses, including Internet servers, workstations, and even powering portable devices. What we're after is a Linux distribution that can replace Windows and not leave you wanting to go back. Some distributions are better than others when it comes to gaming, multimedia, and general entertainment. The distributions included here can all hold their own when it comes to leisurely pursuits, but we want to get some work done, so keep that in mind as we examine each one. If you want to play Windows-native games under Linux, consider subscribing to Cedega for $5 per month (for more details, see http://www.transgaming.com/).
Debian and Ubuntu
I've grouped these two together since Ubuntu is based on Debian and both are popular choices with Linux administrators and experienced users. As you might expect, Debian isn't built with novices in mind, although it's not so advanced as to make it impossible for new Linux users to work with. Debian, as with most Linux flavors, includes a default desktop, which Windows users might know as its graphical user interface (GUI). With Debian, the default desktop environment is GNOME. Another popular desktop is KDE. The difference between GNOME and KDE and the Windows GUI is that GNOME and KDE are suites of software that not only provide a look and feel for your operating system, but also give you applications such as e-mail, file management and Web browsing software, to name just a few. Debian is developed with stability in mind; therefore it doesn't include the latest versions of the Linux kernel, GNOME, and other software. If you want a stable platform that you could potentially use for a server in addition to a desktop OS, and you're experienced enough with computers and operating systems, Debian could be a good choice for you. With over 15,000 packages available and a broad-installed user base, plus great community support, Debian has a lot to offer.
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Figure 1 Debian Linux with the default GNOME desktop
Another strong advantage of Debian is its APT package manager. With Linux, software is usually provided as "packages" (called DEBs in this case), with some packages depending on other packages for proper functionality. The beauty of the APT system is that your operating system knows what's available, what's installed, and what it needs to install so that everything works properly. With APT, all of the dependencies are taken care of for you, and you don't have to worry about installing extra software just to get the software you wanted to install in the first place to work. Debian installs with an application called Synaptic that provides a graphical version of the APT installer. The system has proven so popular that it's been made available for other distributions besides Debian, and it certainly makes using Linux easier for new users.
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Figure 2 Updating packages with Synaptic
Ubuntu is slightly easier to install and use than Debian, and is updated every six months, so if you want the latest and greatest software, Ubuntu is probably a better choice. Like Debian, Ubuntu uses Synaptic and APT for installing software and package updates. It also installs GNOME as the default desktop environment and offers KDE as an alternative. Both use the Evolution e-mail client, which should be very familiar to Microsoft Outlook users. But Linux is all about choice, so you can just as easily choose another mail client from Synaptic to better suit your needs. Most distros ship with the Mozilla or Mozilla Firefox browser. For Debian it's Mozilla while Ubuntu installs Firefox by default. KDE and GNOME also have their own browsers; Konqueror for KDE and Epiphany (also based on Mozilla) for GNOME. All distributions discussed here come standard with the OpenOffice suite, which includes open source versions of a word processor, spreadsheet application, presentation software and other tools similar to what ships with Microsoft Office. These factors can make it difficult to choose a clear cut winner for ultimate desktop champion, but read on to see what else is available and what I chose and why. For example, both Debian and Ubuntu are free of charge, with Ubuntu even being offered as a free CD, shipping included. Ubuntu boasts over 16,000 pieces of software available and support options include both free community support and paid commercial support.
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Figure 3 Ubuntu Linux
SuSE Professional 9.3
SuSE is made with ease-of-use in mind. As a Windows user, I had little trouble working within SuSE's familiar interface. SuSE uses KDE by default, which to me, is more like Windows than GNOME, although some people feel the opposite is true. SuSE's wizards go a long way to attempt to recognize scanners and other peripherals attached to your computer, so things "just work." Little things, like providing links to software on the desktop and task bar, also go a long way in making SuSE more user-friendly. When you're able to click a link to open your e-mail application, word processor or web browser, it just makes things that much simpler and gets you productive more quickly.
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Figure 4 SuSE Professional 9.3 with KDE desktop
SuSE uses YaST, or "Yet another Setup Tool" to manage software installation and updates, device configuration, and even setup of server applications. Instead of DEBs, SuSE uses RPMs, which were originally used with Red Hat's package manager. SuSE installs with KDE desktop by default, and also uses Evolution for e-mail and Firefox for web browsing. It installs a lot of software by default, including multimedia applications, OpenOffice, and games. SuSE Professional 9.3 retails for $99.95, with a trimmed down, fully-functional evaluation version available for free. Support for SuSE includes 60 days of installation support, an online knowledgebase, extended commercial support and free user forums, plus e-mail lists and other community support. The boxed software also includes two printed manual, as well as installation CDs and DVDs for both 32 and 64-bit versions of the software with over 3,300 packages on disc. Recently, OpenSuSE was also announced, a free version with community support and version 10 as its first release goal.
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Figure 5 Software management with YaST
http://www.novell.com/products/linuxprofessional/
Fedora Core 4
If you've heard of Linux, chances are you've also heard of Red Hat. Fedora is Red Hat's open source project. Like Ubuntu, Fedora has a frequent release cycle and includes the most bleeding-edge software releases like Linux kernel 2.6.11 and GNOME 2.10.0. Fedora only includes free, open source software in its distribution; there's no Real Player or other proprietary products included. If you're a purist, Fedora Core is a good choice.
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Figure 6 Fedora Core 4
Not surprisingly, Fedora Core uses RPMs to package software. Software updates are taken care of by Up2date and YUM. Up2date is Red Hat's own product, while YUM stands for "Yellow dog Updater, Modified," an RPM manager with functionality similar to Debian's APT. Yellow Dog is yet another Linux distribution, but specializes in PowerPC (Mac) support. Fedora includes over 1,800 RPMs on the DVD with more available online. The OS isn't supported by Red Hat, but there's plenty of community support and a large user base so finding answers to your questions should be simple.
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Figure 7 Updating Fedora)
Mandriva
Mandriva—formerly Mandrake—is a popular Linux distribution with a wide installation base. Software is offered as a free download in addition to a membership model, where users join the Mandriva Club for $66 per year and are entitled to discounts, advance access to new products and product support. The boxed version is also available to non-members for $65. Retail packaged products include commercial software not available with the free downloaded versions of Mandriva.
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Figure 8 Mandriva with its default KDE desktop
Mandriva uses its own Mandrake Control Center software to update software, install and uninstall packages, and perform other administrative tasks. More than 1,800 packages are included on the DVD and Mandriva offers over 50,000 packages to club members. As mentioned earlier, support is available through the Mandriva club, but also through user forums and e-mail lists.
An interesting thing occurred when I launched OpenOffice Writer under Mandriva. I was asked whether I wanted to save my documents in MS .doc format or OpenOffice's native format. I was also surprised to discover that Mandriva's firewall hadn't been activated upon installation. So, one thing that Mandriva seems to have going for it is the fact that it's full of surprises. In the past I've had problems updating software but that seems to have been remedied with version 10.2. Mandriva has been touted as a beginner-friendly Linux distribution, but because of the issues I've experienced with it, I can't recommend it for beginners. Firewall software activation needs to be transparent from the onset.
http://www.mandrivalinux.com/en-us/
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Figure 9 Mandrake Control Center 10.2
Linspire
Linspire is arguably the most Windows-like of the Linux distributions I've looked at. In fact, Microsoft made sure they changed the original name from Lindows to the current Linspire. Linspire is available as a download for $49.95 and in boxed form for $59.95. It's loaded on low-cost desktop and laptop PCs sold in Wal-Mart stores and big box retailers like Best Buy and CompUSA. Unlike many other distros, Linspire uses the Mozilla software suite for e-mail and web browsing. Linspire also supports many open source projects including the Nvu HTML editor, and has founded the music and photo management software projects Lsongs and Lphoto. The operating system is based on Debian Linux and is very easy to use. Unlike most other distros, Linspire offers only KDE desktop instead of providing an option to use GNOME.
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Figure 10 Linspire Five-0
Linspire uses a subscription-based model for software installation and updates via their Click 'N' Run Warehouse (CNR). They've attempted to make it easy on users by providing one-click access to their more than 2,200 software packages. However, this ease-of-use comes at a price of $29.95 per year for a Basic subscription or $49.95 per year for a Gold subscription. On top of this, many products come at an additional cost, like their VirusSafe and SurfSafe software, both $29.95 (although if you purchase a Gold subscription you're entitled to additional discounts). One benefit of this pricing structure is the fact that Linspire offers some of the only commercial and therefore "legal" DVD player software under Linux. The cost for CNR members is a mere $9.95. Perhaps best of all—or in the opinions of "serious" Linux users, worst of all—is the fact that Linspire users don't need to work in a terminal at the command-line level. The command line is where many Linux users are most at home, typing in commands and bits of code to achieve things not always possible or easy to do from within the GUI. Command line operations are often daunting to new Linux users, and if you feel uneasy about it, Linspire or the next distribution, Xandros, may be for you. Support is available through Linspire, user support forums, and Linspire Knowledgebase.
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Figure 11 Click'N'Run Warehouse
Xandros
Xandros is another Linux distribution based on Debian Linux, and like Linspire, doesn't require users to work with the command line as much. It also only offers a KDE front end. Xandros Business Edition also offers a Windows-like user experience but takes things a step further than Linspire by including CodeWeavers's CrossOver Office Standard, allowing you to run Windows software like Microsoft Office, Photoshop, and iTunes right on the Linux desktop. It also allows users to join Windows domains transparently; in other words you can use your current Windows login to connect your Xandros workstation to a Windows network, effortlessly. And as an act of consideration to your Windows-bound co-workers, Xandros has included anti-virus software so that you don't accidentally forward any virus-ridden files their way.
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Figure 12 Xandros Business Edition
For software updates, installations and removal, Xandros uses its proprietary Xandros Networks software. Through Xandros Networks you can also download trial software, purchase software and software upgrades, and buy a Xandros Networks Premium Membership for discounts on Xandros Networks Shop purchases. Unlike Linspire, there is no monthly fee for using Xandros Networks and many of the items in the Shop are free of charge.
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Figure 13 Using Xandros Networks
Xandros Business Edition is the only distro we've looked at that includes StarOffice. You may be wondering why that's a big deal. StarOffice is Sun Microsystems's commercial office productivity suite, and it includes extra features not found in OpenOffice. Although both products share a lot of the same code, Sun has added nearly 2000 pieces of clipart, 300 templates, extra fonts, a spell checker and thesaurus and software support to their product, making it a more attractive option to Microsoft Office.
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Figure 14 StarOffice 7
Support-wise, Xandros Business includes 90 days installation support, a knowledgebase, user forums, and a printed manual. Xandros Business Edition is the most expensive of the distributions I've covered here, weighing in at $129, but when you consider the fact that it includes StarOffice, CrossOver Office Standard, and Xandros Anti-virus, which sell on their own for $79.95, $39.95, and $24.95 respectively, the price is quite reasonable. Combined with its Windows networking compatibility, Xandros is hard to beat.
So Which One Should You Pick?
After all that, I hate to say, "It all depends," but in many ways it's true. Your needs and budget will always play primary roles in choosing a distribution. However, if you take into consideration the criteria set up at the beginning of this article, it's easier to make a choice. If you want a user-friendly Linux distro but don't want to pay for it, consider SuSE's Evaluation Edition — or better yet, OpenSuSE. You can download them from http://www.novell.com/products/linuxprofessional/downloads/suse_linux/index.html and http://www.opensuse.org/Download, respectively. There's plenty of support via email lists and user forums. If you're more computer-savvy, want access to thousands of software packages, and plan on running a web or FTP server, consider Debian or Ubuntu. And if you'd like a Linux desktop replacement for Windows that won't have you dual-booting or keeping two computers for different tasks, Xandros Desktop OS Version 3 Business Edition is the option you should seriously consider. At $129, it barely compares to the $399.99 you'll pay for Microsoft Office Standard Edition 2003 and $299.99 for Microsoft Windows XP Professional. Any way you look at it, Linux offers many viable Windows replacement options; so make your choice and take the leap.