Microsoft Windows. A name known to everyone that owns a computer or laptop. It is considered to be the world's leading operating system, but that does not make it the best. Linux is a strong competitor to WIndows and keeps it on its toes.

What is Microsoft Windows again?

According to Wikipedia: "Microsoft Windows is a series of software operating systems and graphical user interfaces produced by Microsoft. Microsoft came to dominate the world's personal computer market.."

Now wait just a minute. Dominate the world's personal computer? DOMINATE? It makes the truth seem harsher. In actual fact, Windows is practically forced down the throat of every computer user on the planet, and they say it dominates? It's not as if we have a choice which operating system we want on our technology of choice.

Ubuntu? What is that?

Simply put, Ubuntu is Microsoft's rival. Ubuntu is an operating system which falls into the Linux catagory. Unlike Windows, Ubuntu does not come prepackaged but can be downloaded.. absolutely free with no strings attached.

Windows XP is a fantastic operating system and I would never slander it. But the reason i switched to Ubuntu was because I was sick and tired of constant updates that i saw no point in installing. I tried changing the Windows theme but there was nothing that looked appealing enough to stay. For many years I was a proud owner.. or should I say user of WIndows XP. I heard about Ubuntu a few years ago but I thought I'll never change.

A couple of months ago, I took the plunge and downloaded a copy of the Jaunty Jackalope version. What a smooth installation! Instead of overwriting my WIndows XP, it allowed me to create a new partition for Ubuntu. Within an hour, Ubuntu was set up and ready for use.  The welcome screen was different in both appearance and content. It asked for my username first, so i typed it in and then the appearance changed to ask for a password. Once i put that in, i was greeted by a unique welcome tune of drums. The desktop was spotless. No recycle in sight. After a few minutes of self exploration, I found my way around Ubuntu. It is easy to use and user friendly.

But a word of warning: do not expect WIndows. Do not expect Windows programs to work on Ubuntu either. Now i bet you're sighing and thinking ah why would I want to change now? While it may not support the programs for Windows, WINE does support them and can be installed on Ubuntu. I have no need for WINE as I can just switch back to Windows. There are many free and wonderful applications to use on Ubuntu too. The best of both worlds!

Another good thing about Ubuntu is that the operating system is updated every six months. I am currently using Jaunty Jackalope but from tomorrow forth, I can use the latest update codenamed Karmic Koala. Odd names but a good product.

Overall, i would never use Windows XP home due to a lack of security. I use XP Professional which is the best ever. With Ubuntu combined, i not only have the best operatings systems ever, but truly the best of both worlds.