[Angelino97]

I've had this laptop for over eight years, so I won't install Linux on it. More likely, I'll be getting a newer system before the end of the year, and install Linux on that.

I've read that if you buy a Win system, not all the drivers will work with Linux. You'll have to get some new drivers and that might be a chore.

[Openurmind]

Well Linux has it’s own drivers for all your hardware. The problem might be in the bios. They are starting to make it hard to install an alternative OS. MS made deals with the machine manufacturers to try and lock out alternative OS options. So when you buy shop around to make sure it will let you. :)

I am in a similar situation. But rather than buy new I am going to get an older refurbished win 7 machine to make sure I can immediately reload with Linux.

[Openurmind]

You know there is another option... You can install Linux to an external hard drive and just run it off of there. Once booted up it basically goes around your internal drive to borrow all your hardware without affecting your internal MS drive. I have several of these... Once your bios boot order is set you just plug it in and power it up and go... :)