Windows is a sinking ship compared to the other options. if you dont know imagine surfing and DLing with out running scans evrey couple hours so your computer does not crash. I estimate i spend \n25% of my time dealing with security to keep my xp box afloat...
123427
I have never bothered much about security. Get hold of a good firewall and an antivirus, as well as a spyware scanner and you don't need to bother much.\n\nI have rarely been affected by virii, spyware or the likes. It is all about knowing what to do and what not to.\n\nRegarding in comparison to Linux, Windows definitely is more user friendly. Linux is more a geek system. Unless it has already been fully setup a n00b won't be able to work on it.\n\nSo regarding the question, I don't think Windows is a sinking ship. It is going to hold this market for a long long time I am sure.
35510
My home is not typical by any means.  We have no less than five computers for the three of us.  Two of these are running Windows 98 SE.  In fact the one I am using now is linked to some peripheral devices which do not have drivers written for anything except Windows 98.  I have another machine that I use with my business and it also uses Win98SE.  That one has several software packages that will not run under any other OP.  These are not old machines, but you must realize that XP pro is also a resource hog in comparison and the performance using Win98 is amazing, especially for simple tasks like word processing or Internet connection and browsing.\nSure, I also have XP, Linux, and other systems running for gaming and other tasks.  Occasionally, I still load MS-DOS to do virus and Trojan horse work or Novell Netware for tough database conversions.  If I looked carefully, I could probably find a CP/M disk.
344408
Go with the HP NX6325 at www.stupidcheapcomputers.net.  I buy all of my stuff from them, and everything is Vista ready.\n\nMicrosoft is about to release its latest operating system, Vista, in January.  It’s going to make all of these “bargain” computers nothing but JUNK as soon as it’s released.  The reason that you are seeing so many cheap systems on the market right now is because a lot of them CAN’T RUN Vista and the merchants are trying to dump them as hard and fast as they can before Vista shows up and everyone learns what a piece of crap they were sold for $500 (or whatever).\n\nAnyway, I bought a complete, new system from stupidcheapcomputers.net with a warranty for LESS than it would cost me to build it myself or order a custom one from the manufacturer.  You can use my frequent buyer code: ATX926.  That will get an additional 10% discount at checkout.\n\nI have NEVER had any problems with anything that they have sold me and their customer service is outstanding.  Those guys blow my mind.\n\nGood luck!
439590
Just get Windows XP, it is sooo much better
251420
AVG This is free to home users, needs a licence if used commercially.\n\nreally good backup \nbrilliant anti-virus.\nNorton slows up most comps because it is too efficient and stops good scripts which stops the installation of some legitimate programs
71234
Great information but I think that should only be for people what have an idea what to look for and know what to do about it.\n\nWhile we are on the subjet, let's remember that a good virus scanner is important.  You don't need to spend alot of money or run a pirated copy.  Go to the first link below for a very effective and free copy.\n\nNeed to remove spyware?  Another great FREE tool is Ad-aware.  The second link below.\n\nLook around www.download.com for many other great products.  Before you ask, NO I do not work for them, I just love free products that work well.
494395
Why would you want to go back to Windows 98???\nIt is junk compare to XP.
271272
Well I think that ok, they are coming out with a new windows, but the minimum req. are a bit much. Some people have to go out and buy a whole new pc for it. I am safe because my new pc is Vista capable. But I do not know if just because it meets the minimum req for it, that it will run slow. So i have to buy a whole new one with better features so it can have better speed or something.
655394
Get the best Mac you can for your budget.  The MacBook should be sufficient for what you need.\n\nBut if you think the Mac is less vulnerable to spyware or viruses its just a matter of time.  If you carelessly surf and don't protect your machine, then the same thing will happen.  Windows is more vulnerable because it has such a larger audience for users and potential damage than Mac.  But there were major virus outbreaks a couple of weeks ago aimed at the Mac as well.
474307
i suggest you don't, Windows XP need at least 256MB or more of RAM to run smoothly
248656
most of windows and linux..don't worry, it doesn't require a lot. just make sure you have at least 256Mb RAM, for better speed performance. it won't be any good if u have less than 128Mb RAM
488427
Do you mean that you are running a pirated XP? Well, I used to have one until a month ago. Its not that bad, but there are many security lapses, of course. I am now using genuine XP Pro now, and its much better. Moreover, you cannot also get any of the new Microsoft products, like Internet Explorer 7 or Windows Defender or WMP 11. Still, if you cannot afford a genuine XP, then the pirated one is OK. By the way, a free and open source Operating System called Ubuntu is available over the net. My friend says its pretty good, and has all the basics of XP Home edition. You may like to have it.\nhttp://www.ubuntu.com/\n\nDon't do anything yourself. Hire a technician or a professional.
641513
That's Fine Choice... win 2000 will run comfortabally..... and why do you use Windows 2000 i know it's easy handling servers Since Microsoft has already released windows 2003 Server which is quite similar to windows Xp with windows 2000 Features and many more!
216541
Bollox,  all your answers are Bollox, Except one. I'm not being abusive, but look at the state of it! A Mess.. the guy asked for information to help solve the problem, not to be told to reinstall Windows!\n\nROX has the best answer here, by far. I mean, It's helpful for god's sake!\n\nGeeze...
613432
Get windows updates as well:\nhttp://www.windowsupdate.com\n\nIE isn't very secure. Mozilla Firefox is better.
304108
Okay so you have problems with windows XP. See windows 2000 is most stable OS from MICROSOFT and is use by many corporates. Now WIN XP is not that bad. As said by someone eralier you need to pratice good surfing habits. Okay that will take some time. Try this out. For the last time back up your data, Format win XP and do a clean install of win XP. Once done first visit windowsupdate.microsoft.com and download all the critical updates for your system. Once that is done install and ANTI virus software of your choice and make sure you update it first. Now time for you ti download some free spyware removal tools. Download these two softwares\n1> Spybot serach and destroy\nhttp://www.download.com/Spybot-Search-Destroy/3000-8022_4-10401314.html?tag=lst-0-1\n\n2> Ad aware\nhttp://www.download.com/Ad-Aware-SE-Personal-Edition/3000-8022_4-10399602.html?tag=lst-0-1\n\nUpdate them once downloaded. Now you are all set to go. Use theinternet the way you wish but safely. Visit this website for more info\nhttp://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/viruses/intro_viruses_protect.mspx \n\nhttp://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/spywareprevent.mspx\n\nDo not forget to update your antivirus software and spyware softwares. Run a virus and spyware scan once in 2 days to ensure spywares and virus are out of your computer. I am sure you should not have more troubles or no troubles at all as u had it b4. Well thats all we do and our WIN XP does not crash.
465709
Don't throw it away! It costs $20 in the store.  \nWhat it is:\nWeb Site Authentication \nAntipharming \nAntiphishing \nCrimeware Heuristic Analysis\nPassword Encryption and Security    \nBlocks fake Web sites and crimeware \nKeeps passwords protected\nAuthenticates popular banking and shopping Web sites\nRemoves known crimeware and blocks suspicious programs \nWorks with other antivirus and Internet security solutions to provide additional protection Includes protection updates and new product features as available throughout this renewable service period of one year* \nPlatforms: Windows® XP Home/XP Pro/XP Media Center†