Linux

I have recently started messing with Linux. I have to say that I have had an extremely good impression of it so far. While many things won't run on Linux, it is far faster than Windows will ever hope to be.

I recommend Ubuntu, which comes in several flavors. I have tried Ubuntu Desktop and Xubuntu, but there are several more including a server edition and an educational edition (I'll be checking that out soon for my kids...)

I have also finally done the dual-boot thing. It's very handy, but a utility is needed for Windows so it can read the Linux partition.

www.ubuntu.com
www.fs-driver.org