Quote:

LT,
Regarding your comment on reinstalling Windows because the computer slows down. How often do you change the oil in your car, and have it serviced and lubricated? More importantly, why? Yes, I will agree that it's not quite the same as changing the Operating System on your computer, but it is a valid analogy. Things get gunked up, either in your engine, or on the disk and OS of your computer.

I didn't do a reinstall on XP for years, but I did do a reinstall of Windows 98SE on a yearly basis. I have Windows 7 on my computer now, and while programs themselves may crash, the OS is stable. Maybe in three years or so, I'll wipe the drive to get rid of all the crap, and reinstall it...or the next new OS, but I'm happy with this now.

Gary



Thanks, Gary, for both responses. Yes, you make a good point about Apple updating their OS more frequently. I also have some concern about Apple's proprietary nature -- the same things that may tend to make their systems somewhat more stable (i.e., having control over the software and hardware) also can cause frustration because it's not as open a platform.

I understand your analogy with the oil change and it has some validity. The question is, if you could buy a car that didn't require you to bring it in every so often to get the gunk out, would you buy that instead of the one that required more maintenance? Anyway, it's all a bit rhetorical, I guess. Neither system is perfect, and I have a list of pros and cons on both sides. In the end, I'll just need to make a choice and go with it.

It's always interesting and helpful to hear everyone's different opinions and experiences. Thanks again.