Questions about Linux

[Guest Rob]

So, I'm thinking about going with Linux. Probably either Ubuntu, or Fedora. I have a few questions about them, though:

 

Will they support the following programs:

 

Itunes

Steam

Windows live messenger (Or an alternative that will let me talk to people with MSN)

Microsoft word, or a program compatible with it

 

Will I have to completely un-install windows from my computer? Or is there some way to have multiple OS's on a computer and be able to move between the two?

 

And, I'm on dial up. Will it work with dial up? (The modem, specifically)

 

And, lastly, is Linux any good? I've heard mixed things about it, but I'm not sure about the reliability of my sources.

 

Thank you for the help :) It's greatly appreciated.

[Sbrideau]

Really depends on what you really want.

 

For Itunes and Steam, I have no idea as I do not use them.

For Windows live messenger, you can use Pidgin.

For Microsoft word, the compatible program is Open Office, although I heard that there are new ones since Java was bought by Oracle.

 

You can install them side by side, which is called dual boot, but you have to make a partition on your hard drive for it. It is a good idea if you want to try it and not lose Windows right away.

[Ember]

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[Guest Rob]

Thanks for all of that, both of you. Very helpful :)