Thanks for the post.
I am sitting here after having spent two days with the computer-guru trying to get my sick system running again. Now, I have to deal with the re-install idiots at Microsoft.
Thanks again.....Linux looks better every day.
I understand your problem. I've had to reinstall a few times due to hard-drive failures. I really get annoyed with the Windows Update procedure. They apply patches to patches, requiring a reboot each time. And some of the updates have to be installed on their own, requiring a separate reboot.
Linux (and all open-source software) is right for some people, and not for others. That's a decision that you have to make for yourself -- I suggest installing it on an older computer and playing with it until you become comfortable. Don't try to rely on it right away, because it can be frustrating.