Linux FAQ
Q: Why bother?
A: The first time you have to reformat your entire hard drive because
it has become completely infested, you will be convinced. Or, maybe
you'll get an e-mail demanding a ranson for your data.
Q: How can you claim the Linux is safer to use while connected to the
internet?
A: This is very simple. All maleware is about money. Nobody is going to
bother to write code to attack Linux when there are so many more easy
targets running Windows.
Q: I have anti-virus scanners installed in my computer. Does that not make my computer safe?
A: This software/scanner looks for infestations that are on your hard drive. But, it does not protect
you from websites that may be compromised. Even Bank websites have been compromised and malware placed
into the contents. There may be rogue scripts specifically targeting IE. Linux boxes just have fewer
vulnerabilities.
Q: I have heard that it is not the operating system that is vulnerable,
but the applications.
A: True, but not the complete picture. Many of the PCs running Windows
are using an illegal copy, and the OS has not been patched and/or up-
dated. These are very vulnerable. IE and Outlook Express only run on
Windows boxes, and are very problematic. Acrobat has it's own problems,
and regardless of the OS, you should disable it's implimentation of Java.
Most browsers have some vulnerabilities at some time. You should be running
a script blocker and only allow those sites you know are safe.
Q: All our work is done using MS's Office. How am I going to be able to
continue to do business with the rest of the world?
A: Open Office - provides complete compatability.
Q: Most of our programs and applications are Windows based. What do we
do?
A: WINE (an emulator for Linux) has come a really long way. You can run
many Windows applications in WINE.
Q: I use my computer as an answer/fax machine. Can I do that in Linux?
A: I don't think so. I do know some people have set it up, but the install
compromises the machine. Keep your Win box connected to the phone
line, but nothing else.
Q: Cost?
A: About $200 for a single machine - laptop or desktop.
Q: I've heard Linux is free, why should we pay you?
A: Yes, everything we provide can be acquired for free, but not the experience.
We can save you a huge chunk of time.
Q: Can I install from a single DVD?
A: The short answer is "yes". However, a single DVD will not have all the software you
might need. After the initial install, you will need a high speed internet connection.
With a DSL connection, the required upgrade will take about one hour. You will be drawing
software from on-line repositories.
Q: I absolutely need Windows. Can I keep it?
A: Yes.We will set you up with a dual boot system which will allow you to either boot
to Linux or Windows.
Q: I'm afraid I'll break it later, and have to pay you again.
A: Nope. Linux is a true multiuser environment. You will not have the
permissions required to damage the underlying system. We will give you
root access only when you are comfortable with your new OS, and have a
need for it.
Q: I am computer phobic and have a hard enough time with windows.
A: The graphical desktop environment hase been years in development and
it and the applications, for the most part are very intuitive. It is a
very easy system to use.
Here are some screen shots of the Graphical Desktop Environment:
