Make the switch to Linux quickly, affordably, and painlessly. Use the live CD (Linspire) to do real tasks and learn at your own pace. This book: makes it easy to test drive Linux and Open Source versions of the applications most PC users need before making a complete break from Windows. It takes the risk out of exploring the Linux desktop and smooths the learning curve no matter what your level of computer expertise. This resource: is perfect for SOHO audience; relates Linux to familiar windows features. e.g. How do I set up a Linux mail account? Get the info from these 2 screens in Windows, and put it in this screen in Linux; gives readers all the info, doesn't leave them hanging halfway e.g. why are there several different ways to burn a CD, and why do you get different results? It contains best practices advice throughout, e.g. first thing to do when setting up a new PC and it is built on years of experience, in particular one year spent full time helping Linux users with their set up and running questions. It is packed with inside stories and Legends of Linux e.g. the inside story of the Lindows/Windows trademark fight; the mysterious donor who put up $100K to get Linux porte past books explaining technical stuff in an interesting way. The president of Linspire (the Linux distro we are using) Kevin Carmony has a saying: Linux software is like gold on the moon. It's wonderful, if you have a way to get it. The Peter van der Linden Guide to Linux will get you there