“Linux is never a solution to any computing problem, unless you’re a techie who still loves to be hands on with the command line and feels comfortable with compiling and re-compiling and reconfiguring things.”
Maybe 10 or 20 years ago. Funny, I have used a variety of Linux distros over the past four years and have never had to compile anything; in fact, I wouldn’t know how. To use mainstream applications (e.g. web browsing, email, office programs, multimedia programs), compiling is not necessary. Linux will never replace Windows, we all know this, but it still fills a niche for people like me. For instance, Linux gives me the flexibility to choose the type of desktop interface that I want. I’m not stuck with Metro/Modern, or Unity, for that matter. I like the Windows XP look and feel that Linux can provide. Linux isn’t the virus/malware magnet that Windows is, even if Windows has improved. I don’t have to scan the hard drive with a battery of diagnostic programs such as Norton, McAfee, MalwareBytes, Ad-aware, ad nauseum. Security on Windows is a major preoccupation; on Linux, hardly a worry. Have you ever seen a Linux virus? I never have. Yes, Windows supports more hardware, peripherals and name-brand software than Linux, but that’s a trade-off that I can live with.
Linux virus?
Security for Linux comes by way of obscurity. However, yes, I’ve heard of plenty of viruses for the Linux. But, not something worth talking about, since, not too many people will have to worry about it. ;)
However, I’m happy for you. You found something that makes you happy, and I’m not about to take that away from you. I too discovered Linux a long time ago, but, I’ve never been excited about it, and I’m on the technical side of things, but, life moves on and, I’d rather have things done the easy way.
Regarding secuity, I think the Internet is like driving, and we must be careful where we go. Linux is less prone to viruses, but the restricted permissions for other drives, which most distros impose, was a problem for me. Vista had them also when i used it, but that could easily overridden it.
Having used Windows while on the web for about 10 hours a day for over 10 years and only experiencing two viruses, and being the only user (and with the http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm file and default firewall) i did not see the need for more security.
But Linux has its place and potential, and i hope it gets better.