Working with all three platforms ... 3419
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Hi Josh, I do setup computers for some folks and they run quite well -- but...
I can't speak to Linux, because i only dabble around a bit with Ubuntu for PPC, but I support Macs and PCs here at work.
I don't think Windows is bad at all, as long as you don't let it near the internet. We use the three PCs here (all are brand new Gateways) for standalone chores and they are fine. The interface isn't as easy as Mac (more mouse clicks to do the same thing), but they are OK. There sure are a lot more apps for Windows (although many of them really, really suck.)
The Macs are much safer for network duty, IMO. I have Panther Server running as a *software* router-firewall, serving Macs and PCs (the PCs are locked out of the internet, they only can see the server and the printers.) No pop-ups, no adware, no virus problems, the Macs just go out there and do the job.
Alex I was going to go the Mac rout when I last bought a client for home, the main reason for Mac rather than another Linux was that I was looking...
OS stability. The Windows machines require a few more reboots (I think), but I really haven't logged them. They are pretty close with XP second edition.
To defend Leythos, his experience is the same as mine with all the computer users I support. I'm that 'friend of a friend who works with computers', so I get calls at least 2-3 times...
Cost. I like to put more memory in PC than a comparable Mac, because (IMO) Mac memory Debt Management beats Windows in the 512 meg-1 gig RAM area. I have to buy more utility software for Windows for Mac, too. That brings the cost of our PCs almost up the costs of the Mac. The Macs last longer here (4-5 years per machine). We like to change the PCs at the 2-3 year interval, because Windows responds so much better to a hardware upgrade. Interesting note: I have 450 mhz Blue and White G3 tower here. It is now running Tiger. With each release of the OS, thing actually runs FASTER than before. -- Arf!
Old CSMAer