With the loss of Windows XP as a viable operating system (see the NickWorks pages) NickWorks has been looking into alternatives. If you want to just do basic computing (web browser, email etc) and aren't strongly in need of running specific Windows applications, a Linux setup would be an option.
Linux Mint looks good.
(1) You can run it off a DVD without changing anything at all.
(2) If you like it, you can install it locally, which makes it run faster.
(3) When it installs, it can leave the machine dual-booting, so that Windows XP is still there and working if you choose it at boot time.
(4) All the old files will be visible under Linux.
(5) Applications are slightly different, but similar! Firefox is the default web browser, Thunderbird does email, and LibreOffice is a freeware Office variant. All these things are there and working by default, as well as things to listen to music, edit pictures etc.
(6) Windows applications can be run too, through a Linux application called WINE.
(7) It's free!!
The downside? Making Windows programs work can require fiddling about, or might prove impossible - so this setup is best for people who don't really need any particular Windows application.
Contact NickWorks if you want to try Linux out.
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