I've used linux for years on at least some of my computers. I was so disgusted with windows 8, that I converted my pcs to Linux mint. As long as your realize, windows software won't run directly ( that are ways to run some of it though ) you'll be fine. There is plenty of software available for linux and 80% it is free. This pc I'm using right now has been in Linux Mint 14 for about 9 months. MUCH more secure than windows, and every bit as easy to use. You do need to learn the differences in it though, to get the most out of it. As a computer professional who worked his whole career in the Windows world, I have to say, I don't miss Windows one bit.