The Security Mentor

I was reading yet another virus or worm announcement, and the writer said something like "As usual, Mac and Linux systems are unaffected".

Most of the advice I've given on this blog has been about reducing the hazards of Windows systems.

You can switch to an alternative in almost all cases. Mac OS X runs Quicken, Microsoft Office, and virtually all the productivity software you could want. Linux is missing competitive personal finance and tax software but can handle your networking and general productivity needs.

Trying Linux is cheap, safe and easy. Spend $5 plus shipping at CheapBytes (*) and order a "Knoppix 3.4" CD. Or ask your local geek for a copy. Then the way cool part begins.

The only thing you need to do is reboot from the Knoppix CD. A minute later you're running Linux with no installation routine and no rearranging your hard disk. It treats your hard disk as read-only. It automatically sets up networking. The only work you may have to do is set your computer to boot from the CD drive. Usually your computer will display a message like "Press F1 to enter setup" or "Press DEL to enter setup" when it first starts. Try that if your computer doesn't boot from the CD. Then just poke around! Especially look for "Open Office".

Quietly let your local geek know that you're experimenting with Linux. You may get enthusiastic support.

(*) no financial interest, no referral fee. I'm just a customer.