I run windows. I play many games FOR windows. I'm thinking about converting because I've just heard a TON of good stuff about linux.

If I order one of the free CDs, do I still keep the ability to torrent, play games (halo, oblivion), and other things?

Post your opinions, I'm curious.

Id say no for a quick awnser, but then again if you know a fair bit about computers go ahead i dont know about games and there compatibility with linux and many programmes wont work, you can stil torrent i thing u torrent works aswell

My suggestion is to try it out. Dual boot between Windows and Linux. Order or download a Linux CD, you can repartition your hard drive without losing any files and both operating systems will be installed. It's good for web browsing, but not for playing games. Games like Halo and Oblivion won't work on Linux. I used Linux for a while, but I got tired of it. Ubuntu uses more RAM than Windows XP so it made my computer slower. Plus you can't use any Windows programs on Linux though some work with Wine (Windows Emulator for Linux).

I have used linux for about 6 years now and all I can say is "unbelievably awesome"

The security is high sense almost all malware is designed for windows.

You can download a virtual windows program so you can run all your normal windows programs (photoshop, games, and what not), AND BEST OF ALL, you can learn linux, and come here to brag how awesome you are because linux is awesome.

Too long? Didn't read? i <3 ubuntu

EDIT:
This is more of a discussion rather then technical support, moving to tech discussion.

Your 3D games generally don't work that well. Also remember that as of now ATI has few good drivers for its recent graphics cards. You'll need a Windows emulator, and hope that the 3D drivers for you graphics card work well.

ATI is horrid. nVidia is where it's at.

Erm, why? if your using your computer for gaming do not go for linux.

Theres a lot of advantages of linux, but ati driver support = mass fails. Nvidia works nice with linux.

Why would you want linux = Better security, worry less about firewalls antivirus (as long as you surf smart)
= a lot faster for general surfing / word processing / messanging.

It is a lot faster, thats why its good for certain things, it also looks a lot nicer. But if your using it for games, you won't really need it.

I currently dual boot with kubuntu (don't like gnomez), let family use kubuntu because its an easier interface. Then i use xp pro.

The reason, i play games, develop websites, surf etc etc. Nothing wrong with my current setup.

IMO most of secure surfing is down to common sense, i hardly ever get any problems. The only issue i have with windows is that it is a lot slower in general to linux.

I think most everything there is to say about it has been said, except one thing. WINE windows emulator. Lets you run Windows programs, on Linux! Supposedly, you can even use Halo with it, PMG!

And yes, I really recommend it.

Halo trial doesnt work
I tryed it on Ubuntu.
I wont recomend!:|
it is good to have Windows, paid and secure if u only take care!
Its not for gaming, and microsoft programs dont work even! (Like Visual Basic)
Linux is good, but its not gaming or much support on Download.com....

Linux is okay, I'd suggest Windows with Ubuntu dual boot, that's what I have. If you're a big gamer I would highly recommend keeping Windows, because Linux is obviously not a well-supported platform in terms of the latest and greatest games. I feel it is a lot better to have it on dual boot than emulation. Ubuntu is funded by a millionaire, so they can afford to ship out free CDs if you want one. Then you can use the Live CD option to try it before you install it. The instructions on the CD will tell you all about dual booting and stuff. I'm sure Linux is great and all, but I really use it just occasionally (and to show of to friends) and never for anything more than basic tasks (office apps, web authoring, web surfing).

Only go Linux if you are 100% sure of what you want to do. My Uncle uses Linux but he runs hes own company so he mainly uses it for networking and as a sever.

If you have no idea don't go Linux.

My opinion is that if Windows works for you, don't switch. If it doesn't, then try it out.