Linux is becoming more and more popular by the minute, and I think everyone is going to start switching. With the threat of Microsoft letting the RIAA/MPAA scan your computer on its next version of Windows (Longhorn), everyone is on the urge to switch. I am even trying to convince my girlfriend to switch to Linux. Better yet, it even runs like clappers on old pieces of hardware.

1. Bye-bye Viruses/Spyware: When I was on Windows regularly, not a day would pass when I would be spyware-free. I would have to force myself to do virus scans. But now with Linux, you no longer need to worry about that. It makes it safe.

2. Cost Savings: Most Linux distros are completely free and Open Source. Meaning you can download them from an FTP or Mirror location. And some of the Open Source software available for Linux: Open Office (A conversion of MS Office), or GIMP (Like Photoshop).
3. Complete Privacy: Your Linux machine will be completely private. The only way it will be leaked to the Web is if you are logged in as the root user, of course, but it is always suggested to never connect to a network with the root user. So you will have privacy over your files.
4. No Blue Screen of Death: Yes! That’s it! Your troubles are gone. That annoying BSOD (Blue Screen Of Death) will NEVER appear on your screen again. No worries.
5. No need to reboot for months: If you are a big server admin, and enjoy keeping your computer on 24/7, Linux is the perfect OS! You can keep it on for days, weeks, and even months without needing to reboot.

   The great thing about Linux is that the people who make it care about the quality of the OS, not about getting so many dollars whenever someone downloads a piece of their software. If you are switching to Linux, there are only a few words of advice: Learn to love the Terminal, and the Tux.