Now that the Windows 7 beta is out, you may be wondering why it is that people actually go around buying OS software when there are so many different available free ones available to you out there. Among these are the various Linux installs as well as certain beta downloads. So, without further ado, here are our top three freely available OS downloads:
OS # 1 - Windows 7 Beta
Available at: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/dd353205.aspx, also available as a torrent download
Windows 7 is already being heralded as Windows' magnum opus. It combines all the best features of Windows XP and Vista and incorporates dozens of new features, including a taskbar that (in my opinion) beats out the OS X dock or anything like it, and even manages to run faster than previous installations of Windows. Even though this version of Windows 7 is just a beta, it still runs faster and better on my laptop and desktop than Vista or even XP. The fact of the matter is, Windows 7 is a return to form for Microsoft, which has been suffering the past couple of years with bad perception of Vista, and even a big return by consumers back to XP. With Windows 7, they'll be launching a program that they can be extremely proud of, and you can own a piece of the fun right now by visiting the above website and downloading the freely available beta.
OS # 2 - Ubuntu Linux
Available at: http://www.ubuntu.com/, also available as a torrent download
For those tired of Windows and Mac fanboy-isms, it might be time to consider the move to Linux. The Ubuntu project in particular combines the best of the Windows world with a small, tight install package which is fully featured. Support for Linux programs is growing each and every day - more and more games are running, it's possible to emulate Windows and Mac even, so there is no reason whatsoever to think that Linux builds are more problematic and code-heavy. Ubuntu proves conclusively that even for those of us not used to writing in code, it's still possible to run and use Linux in an everyday environment.
OS # 3 - Fedora Linux
Available at: http://fedoraproject.org/, also available as a torrent download
The Fedora project is yet another great build in the ever expanding Linux build domain. Fedora is similar to Ubuntu in the sense that it comes complete with everything you need right from the start, and is a bit more user friendly than your traditional Linux OS. Fedora is also a little more flashy than your usual Linux build, so for those who are interested in an OS that not only is fully featured but also one that looks good, Fedora is the one to go with. With the current, tenth build, they've added increased network support as well as better support for apps and games, including a video player and the like.