Windows 7 vs. Linux Ubuntu Comparison Windows 7 versus Ubuntu: Is Linux ready for the limited skill user?

Windows has long been the default operating system of choice for the new or limited skill user. Linux attempts to claim part of the market with their open source product, but has thus far been largely unsuccessful. This paper will assess several important characteristics of operating systems for limited skill users, comparing Windows 7 to Ubuntu in terms of ease of use, security vulnerabilities against response of manufacturer, the ease of adding programs and hardware, and overall stability.

Ease of use

With Linux's new Wubi installer, Ubuntu installs easily, contrary to one of the most common past complaints. When the system boots, it asks the user what operating system the user would like to run. Ubuntu 10.04 comes with Firefox 3.6 and some other preinstalled applications. While one might hope that as long as a limited skill user restricts...

Some timesaving features are available in Windows 7 that is not available on Ubuntu, like Jumplists. This may or not be relevant to the limited skill user -- as their initial computer experiences may or may not have been with Windows. Additionally, there are some inconsistencies in application design, which is not an insurmountable problem, but is serious to the newer user.
Security

One of the advantages to using Linux is simply that there are fewer viruses available to attack the system. Security is a much more serious problem for Windows users, and dealing with security concerns reflects a higher overall cost…