Quote Originally Posted by satchef1
Anyone want to explain to me why i would want to use Linux? I tried it out once but i couldnt find any reason why i would want it over XP
Generally, if you're wondering why you'd need Linux, you don't need it. That said: Linux IS better in a couple of cases:

1. Cost.
You're buying a new comp or a second comp and you would require to purchase a copy of XP (90€) or Vista (around 200€ I think) if you want to run windows OR you could install Linux for free. Most distros come with a bunch of free software like OpenOffice (like Microsoft Office, but better, for the most part). If you're not into gaming or other windows specific apps this can be a very cheap alternative.
This is pretty much the only reason the 'common' user would/should install windows.

2. You hate micro$oft, or you just want to try something different (my gf wants me to install linux on her comp, God help me...), or you're just a geek.

3. You're in research. A lot of academics *love* Linux, mostly because it's 1337, I guess. In certain areas where real time computations are necessary Linux is king (Windows doesn't have a real time version, Linux does).

4. You're running a network (server) Linux is far better with networks. It's also more stable.

5. Security. Linux is a lot more secure than windows, again this is mostly important for business users.

Of course, that's just my opinion as a Linux n00b. There are certainly more knowledgable members out there