Windows v Linux

[MI5]

We know that ebay uses cookies and spyware to track suspended accounts and there is discussion about the best browser to use and clearing the history and cookies plus changing the name of the computer on the OS (usually Windows)

But has anyone considered using anything other than Windows or Mac? In a world dominated by Bill Gates we are brainwashed into thinking we can only use Windows. 95% of the world pays dearly for the patented Windows when the early computer pioneers were not motivated by greed and didnt bother with patents. Free operating systems were developed and used in countries where people dont want to pay through the nose for a fancy OS

You can download the Linux OS for free and it will run alongside Windows. Whilst reading reviews on Linux one user said Linux was as good as windows. Another said that in a world where 95% of computers ran on windows using Linux instead made his computer less vulnerable to internet scams because the scams target Windows users.

This last point may be of use, I dont know. Is there anyone using Linux. Over the years Ive noticed that some ebayers avoid having their infringing items taken down as quick as mine. Never worked it out. Could this be the answer?

[Seller]

Very interesting. This might be the answer when ebay starts keeping track of our cookies like a bank.

[Jonas]

Just use a browser that blocks flash or get a flashblocking plugin on firefox.

[aspkin]

Right, just watch your flash objects and you'll be fine. All the solutions to eBay tracking is in these forums, keep on reading.

[MI5]

I know for a fact any website with the right software can recognise not just the IP address and the web browser but also the OS (Windows, Mac or Linux) and can recognise the computer name when uploading information.

If ebay only works on cookies then i would think the OS is unimportant, just use a different browser or clear the cookies. Though using Linux would add to the overall change of identity.

Its a bit of a shock to realise that when you buy a pc with Windows pre-installed you pay $200 extra than if you had a free Linux OS either pre-installed or you download yourself for free. Every time you buy a pc Bill Gates is $200 richer and the buyer is $200 poorer.

You can have a dual boot where you press the on button, then the F8 key(I think) and choose whether to use Linux or Windows. Any drivers you have will have to be loaded on the alternate OS plus the firewall, antivirus etc buts thats pretty simple.

Is anyone using LINUX? I'd be interested in your assessment of the system. I have'nt downloaded it yet but I know Toys R Us have laptops with Linux so I might take a look to see what its like. If all you need a pc for emails and storing pictures and simple documents that shouldnt require anything too fancy.