[qam1]

Why not just use a lite load of Linux rather than load up on spyware?

Because with Google you download and click install.

With Linux you have to read 100+ page technobabble instructions on how to Mount Drives, bridge Kernels, Shells, BIOS and Communication protocols.

[Paladin2]

I have 3 10-yr old mini desktops.

I just got a Linux Mint DVD and stuck it in them.

Of course once loaded they did spend some time on the ‘net loading and installing updated software.

If your hardware is supported, it’s easy peezy.

[Pollard]

With Linux you have to read 100+ page technobabble instructions on how to Mount Drives, bridge Kernels, Shells, BIOS and Communication protocols.

I've installed various flavors of Ubuntu on a dozen older laptops and a couple of newer ones and have no idea what you're talking about. HDDs are automatically mounted when you boot up on the Live USB or boot up on installed Ubuntu. For install, the drive you're installing to has to be unmounted but the GUI partitioning program does that for you.