Hello. I have 6-8 yr old Dell PC w/XP3. Microsoft has apps for XP3 to 7 or 8/8.1 compatibility check. Is there similar for Linux? Became confused on Linux web site deciphering which Linux would be suitable. I know zip about Linux or variations. Thank you.

Hi, Welcome to Linux Questions!

I'm not sure I understand. Suitable for what? Compatible with what? Windows Apps don't run on Linux in general, you use the Linux native equivalent, e.g. Instead of Microsoft Office, use Libre Office, instead of Photoshop, use Gimp or Lightzone.

Linux gets updated pretty frequently and unlike programs running on Windows, the Applications are updated as well, as and when updates are available. All pretty much automatically.

You might want to check this out:

http://linux.oneandoneis2.org/LNW.htm

Play Bonny!

This link shows windows to Linux alternatives
http://www.linuxalt.com/

Another option is to try if your window's programs can run in wine. Wine lets you run windows programs in linux. However some programs may work great and others may not.

... or see LQ's list https://www.linuxquestions.org/hcl/

The best way is to create a "Live DVD" or "Live USB" and take Linux for a test-drive (try without installing) on your computer. If your computer is "linux-compatible" then the test drive will go well.

However, if your computer is 6+ years old and came with XP originally, it might be getting a little "long in the tooth" and you might consider a hardware upgrade. There are a lot of good sales and bargains right now. Linux on a fast, modern computer is a dream.

Good luck!

---------- Post added 03-16-14 at 08:34 AM ----------

The best way is to create a "Live DVD" or "Live USB" and take Linux for a test-drive (try without installing) on your computer. If your computer is "linux-compatible" then the test drive will go well.

However, if your computer is 6+ years old and came with XP originally, it might be getting a little "long in the tooth" and you might consider a hardware upgrade. There are a lot of good sales and bargains right now. Linux on a fast, modern computer is a dream.

Good luck!

there is a old saying
"linux is not windows "
it also can be said that "Apples Mac is not windows "

for the most part you can not run Microsoft Windows programs on a Linux Operating System

some can be ran using a emulator called "wine"

however almost all windows software has an equivalent in linux

1 members found this post helpful.

Hi. Thank you for the info. It is what I expected, but hoped not. Regards.

To snowpine, Die-hard-Linux-user, chrism01, and soadyheid. Thank you for your input. I'll try the "live DVD" route and see how it goes. Regards.