There are three major operating systems for computers: Windows, Mac and Linux. Most people are versed with either of the first two, which are copyrighted, while a smaller number of people are knowledgeable about the Linux operating system, which is open source.
There are differences and similarities in each, and which one you prefer will largely depend on your personality, and you personal computing needs and preferences. Once a person is experienced with one OS, it will inevitably take some time to get used to another.
There is a very large community of people who swear by Linux, but there are some disadvantages to using it. Here are some of them:
No Standard Edition
While Windows and Mac have several definite versions, there is no one standard edition of Linux. In fact, there are hundreds of different user-developed editions. It can be challenging to figure out which one is best for you, and making that decision can be overwhelming for a new user. And it is here where blogs like this come to help: reading reviews can ease the task of choosing.
Learning Curve
The simplest way to put it: Linux is not as easy to use as Windows or Mac. It requires a broader base of knowledge about computing than other operating systems, and this can be very challenging for a beginning user. If you are used to using Windows or Mac, you will have to unlearn and relearn many different functions and processes. It can take some time, and the less technical understanding you have the more it will require of you to learn. While it is certainly possible to gain a functional understanding of Linux with practice and self-teaching, it will require more effort than with other operating systems.
Non-Compatible Software
A disadvantage to using a Linux OS is that the majority of your favorite programs will not run on it. If you are used to certain software, you will have to find a comparable Linux option. There are hundreds of choices of programs, and there are many that are similar to specific Windows or Mac software. However, a lot of times the user interface is very different and not every function you want is always available. You will have to do some searching and testing of different programs until you find ones that you like and meet your needs.
Unsupported Hardware
There is less computer hardware that is compatible with Linux, also. There is a much smaller selection of drivers that will work with Linux, although more are being added on a consistent basis. Oftentimes it takes a while for new hardware to be supported, and you may find that a lot of the hardware you already have will be tough to run on Linux. For some reason, many people encounter problems with running their printers on Linux. Blu-ray discs are also not able to be played using Linux.
Tech Support
While there is a large community of Linux users that are very helpful in answering your technical questions in forums and chat rooms, it can be more difficult to get assistance for your issues. You can ask questions of Linux users, but sometimes their answers will be difficult to understand if your technical knowledge is lacking. There is also no immediate help because you will be waiting for someone to write a response rather than calling a central tech support hotline where someone will answer right away. Also, it can be difficult to find a computer repair person who is versed in Linux.
Compiled and researched by Lisa Hann, edited and proofed using Grammarly grammar checker.
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