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[jk3521]

Originally Posted by tupper

You might not realize it, but you actually installed Linux onto your computers. However, you've installed what is possibly a privacy intrusive, less secure Linux derivative, that can cost money.

On the neverware.com site it says that "CloudReady OS" is "based on Google’s Chromium OS." Chromium OS is the version of Linux on which Chrome OS is based. Chromium OS is open source and Chrome OS is proprietary.

Chrome OS is installed on most Chromebooks.

Both Chromium OS and Chrome OS rely heavily on Google online services, with potential privacy/security issues. Both Chromium OS and Chrome OS have relatively pathetic "app stores" compared to the extensive package repositories of the mainstream Linux distros.

It is admirable that you have taken the crucial step to leave behind Microsoft, but you would likely be better off and happier by just installing one of the major distros such as Linux Mint or MX Linux.

The installation process of either of these proper Linux distros is probably just as easy (if not easier) than installing "CloudReady OS," and you would enjoy a much larger and more robust software repository. Also, you would not rely on cloud services nor would you have any of the privacy intrusions nor security risks inherent with such services.

In addition, with a regular Linux distro, you get its full power and robustness without ever paying a cent. On the other hand, "CloudReady OS" seems to have a "tiered" subscription business model.

If you are concerned that a regular Linux distro would be more difficult to learn than "CloudReady OS," you easily can test almost any Linux distro merely by booting it "live" from a CD/DVD/USB.

Booting a live version of one of the mainstream Linux distros is safe and will not affect your computer's installed OS. It is an easy process to make live CDs/DVDs/USBs, and there are plenty of tutorials for doing so on the web.

There are also plenty of YouTube videos showing folks navigating through various Linux distros. Please be assured that using any of the major Linux desktops is just as easy (if not easier) than using Windows or Mac.

Thank you for your suggestions . I will download Linux and boot it from usb flash drive and give it a road test. How large a flash drive do I need? Never mind, I'll Google it . Thanks.