content: Yes.  Use Linux.  It's free, secure, easier to install than Windows, and test-driving different distros could not be simpler.  If you've already got a Windows installation, dual-booting is smoother than a Java update. Everyone has their favorite flavor of Linux, try a bunch of popular distros and see which is best for you. Need Photoshop?  Use WINE or run Windows as a VM.  Need games?  Lots run on Linux, more every day, and a cross-platform DirectX killer is on the horizon.  Need a specific game or program that only runs on Windows?  Dual-boot!  Get away from Windows now because their bullshit is only going to get worse.