A lot of people have some crazy ideas about the Linux operating system, and that creates crazy prejudices that keep them from switching from another system to a Linux platform. So in order to dispel some of these rumors and half-truths, lets take a closer look at these top Linux myths.
Myth 1: Linux is only for servers, not individual computers at home. Yes, Linux did get its big claim to fame because of the platforms ability to service corporate networks, but Linux is by no means a one trick pony. There are many versions of Linux that are made for business, and equally the home user environment.
Myth 2: I'll never be able to work Linux. It used to be that Linux was hard to configure but that time has long gone. You may have a slight learning curve when you switch over to Linux, such is its open source methodology, but you will be able to operate the system without any major complications if you are a relatively intermediate computer user.
Myth 3: If I use Linux I won't be able to get any help when I have a problem. No, this is a major misconception. For some versions you will have a help number, but every version of Linux will have a support community where you can get the technical and social troubleshooting expertise you need. There is help from an entire community of experienced users and even the developers of the systems themselves.
Myth 4: If I use Linux then I will never be able to send or receive an Office document again. It is true that you are not going to be able to use the Microsoft Office suite but that does not mean that you have to be without an Office Suite. The Office Suite of choice for Linux is Open Office which is compatible with MS Office file extensions.
Myth 5: If I switch over to Linux I will have a hard time browsing the web, getting to the sites I need and checking my email. No. When you have Linux you can use any number of browsers, including the superb Firefox. For many of you this will require no adjustment at all. Firefox is already a very popular cross platform browser so you can get used to it on your home machine, or you may already be using it.
Myth 6: I will never be able to install Linux on a computer by myself. Most of the Linux systems come with detailed installation instructions that make installing the operating system a seamless task. In addition you can also get computers with some versions of Linux pre-installed on the computer, so you do not have to worry about installing it at all.
Now that you know a little bit more about the world of Linux, and how easy changing over to and using Linux can be in real life, you can get an idea for whether Linux is the system for you. Even if you don't plan to switch over, it is worth knowing the practical truths about Linux. It isn't the scary monster some imagine it to be. It isn't a closed shop development community for the pure programmers of this world. It is an incredibly open, diverse and ultra secure PC platform, and this myth busting overview should allow you to make an informed decision about its feasibility for practical use. With that in mind there is also one extra truth about Linux that is hard to surpass, and that is that Linux is open source software meaning many of the versions are free of charge, and are all open to high levels of individual customization.