FOR THE FIRST time on Startech we are featuring another operating system (O/S) that does not belong to the Microsoft family of products. Linux is an open source O/S that is available free of cost on the Internet. The software comes packed with thousands of applications. You can spend some time and download more applications from the Internet, most of which are free.

Personally speaking I have always used Microsoft products, and still do. However it would be very bad on my part if I didn't inform you of MS Windows and application alternatives that can save you some money in your pocket.

To be frank, I am still learning about Linux and what promise it has in the IT industry. Firstly Linux is very stable, and secondly (personally) hard to use from a new user perspective. That is why there is a version of Linux that looks and works just like

Microsoft Windows.

Xandros Desktop 2 offers an intuitive, elegant, graphical environment that installs with four clicks of a mouse. Xandros Desktop 2 provides industry-leading integration with Microsoft Windows programmes and networks, plus new usability enhancements such as drag-and-drop CD burning in Xandros File Manager.

Features in Xandros Desktop 2 include:

Four-click installation with automatic disk partitioning

Industry-leading hardware detection & configuration

Drag-and-drop CD burning in Xandros File Manager

Ability to run Microsoft Office and other key Windows programmes (Deluxe only)

Seamless sharing of files and resources on Windows networks and Unix

Single-click access to a huge inventory of free Linux software

Free fixes and patches for your version of Xandros Desktop OS

Play streaming audio, MP3, WAV, MIDI and other audio files

Put the weather, news or dictionary definitions on your panel

Speedy, stable, standards-compliant browsing

Surf multiple web sites in one tabbed window

Easy to use mail reader with automatic spam filtering

Turn off annoying pop-up ads and banners

Versatile instant messenger lets you chat with others on MSN, Yahoo, AOL, ICQ, and IRC. This operating system is packed with hundreds of

features right out of the box.

Clearly anyone will find that Xandros is a good choice if they need to switch from Microsoft Windows. There are two versions of Xandros, Standard and Deluxe.