U-Blog 5

In my Intro to TSTM class, we're building computers. I've done a lot on computers, but never in them. I'm enjoying learning how.

We have put all the pieces together- motherboard, processor, DVD player- and powered it up. Now we are working on installing Windows XP, drivers, etc. Soon we will take off Windows XP and install Linux.

It seems amazing to me that something I did can run and do familiar things. The knowledge I am acquiring is useful in many situations- such as using msconfig to (attempt to) remove a virus from a colleague's computer.

U-Blog 4

Operating Systems

I have always been a Windows person, by default more than anything. The computers I've used at work and school run Windows, and the two I have bought for myself have been Windows. I know how to use it and saw no real reason to change.

But I will need a new laptop soon...and I don't want Windows this time. Why? I refuse to use Vista- maybe it's improved, but it was rolled out too soon, and has so many bugs and kinks in it. Windows XP requires constant updates and is easily attacked by viruses. Users don't control it, a big company does.

Linux is attractive because it is open-source- a community of users builds it and improves on it. It appeals to the hacker in me. The desktop computer I am building in another TSTM class will have Linux.

However, if I buy a pre-built computer, it will have an OS. I'm thinking Mac- as it seems to be stable and well-regarded- and then dual-boot it with Linux.