I am not satisfied with Ubuntu, a Linux-type operating system, and am thinking of buying a copy of Windows XP and installing it on my laptop.  I have a Dell desktop with XP, and a Dell laptop which had Vista-replaced with Ubuntu.  I won't do this until I check out the Mac when I get to NY which should be in a couple of weeks.  Neither of my computers have much power and both use old technology, so I think I would be better off to get rid of both of them. 

My question is:  would it be difficult for me to reformat & install XP?  I have been out of the loop of technological advances for a number of years, and don't really want to get back into it.  If this switch would involve more than I can deal with I will just take it someplace and have it done.

Another side question:  I have a Dell flat screen monitor that I absolutely love.  Is it possible to use this monitor with a Mac book, in the event I decide to buy one?  Thanks.

gypsy

Do an internet search with your laptop model and "XP" to see if someone has written up an XP install guide for your machine. XP is no longer sold, but I have been told it is available used (sometimes in brand new shrink wrap). The main problem is finding the XP drivers for the laptop hardware since most current video, audio and wi-fi devices are not known to XP since XP came long ago.

How about solving your problems with Ubuntu?  Or are you just ready to start paying people to sweep the viruses out of your machine again?

What kind of problems? I can help.

Formatting a computer is easy. Time consuming, but easy. I've done it on our Gateways, Dells and the HPs. And I'm self-taught, so anyone can learn how. You need to make sure you have everything backed up and that you have the CD with the OS and the resource cds with all your drivers. Directions can easily be found online or you can call tech support and they'll tell you how. When I wanted to do our HP laptop, (several years after I'd done both Gateways and one Dell) I called them and not only did they talk me thru it but they sent me a transcript of our conversation so I'd have the instructions for later use.

I ended up buying a Mac Book Pro a couple of months ago and have been happy with it for the most part. I need to visit an Apple Store to get some one-on-one advice and help, but unfortunately in this lifestyle I'm rarely in a city large enough to have an Apple Store, or else it is completely across the city. I'm learning though. And at least I don't have those constant messages about needing to download and install a fix that is required.

Ubuntu is a very nice package. Installing XP on your laptop could turn into a nightmare. I tried it on my DW's laptop...the install went smooth, but when I rebooted I found it had none of the required drivers for the modem, network, bluetooth, or USB. Without those drivers I could not connect to the internet to download the needed drivers. The only option was to download the drivers on a different computer, burn them to CD, and then install them on the laptop. Didn't sound like fun, so I called IBM and bought the necessary driver CD's for $50. I vowed to never attempt it on a laptop again. Ubuntu is a very nice OS. Why are you not satisfied with it? Right before we started full-timing I made the switch to Apple and bought an iMac. Best decision I ever made truth be told. You will find Apple equipment/software is more expensive than PC's. Note that not all PC software is available on the Mac. If you decide to switch make sure your programs/data will port over.

Even though my day job is all Dell, all the time, I bought a MacBook for my personal use almost three years ago. I have upgraded the OS to Snow Leopard and couldn't be happier with my decision. My wife has a Dell Mini 10 because it was just $280 with an employee discount. When we eventually hit the road I plan on upgrading my laptop to a 17" MacBook Pro.