The long-delayed next release of Microsoft's popular Windows operating system, Longhorn, is not expected to be released until the end of 2006. Given that XP, released in October 2001, is expected to be at least five years old by the release of a new operating system version, now might be a good time to try installing Linux.

Catalog your hardware

There are a few things you should do to prepare for the installation. First, you should compile a list of all of the hardware present in your computer. In Windows, the device manager can give you a list of most of your hardware. Be sure to print or save this information before attempting to install Linux.

Decide on a distribution

Linux is distributed freely by many different distributors, many of which specialize in offering packages aimed at users with different levels of experience and needs. Mandrake and Xandros are both popular with beginners, but there are as many distributions as there are needs, so researching distributions before you begin is a good idea. That said, most are available via a free download, so you are welcome to try several.

Partition your hard drive

You don't have to delete Windows to try Linux. There are popular partitioning programs on the market that will allow Linux and Windows to co-exist happily on the same hard drive. Investing in one of these programs may be a good idea. There are also free Linux partitioning programs, but support is not as comprehensive as it is with the commercial programs.

Now, with the documentation for your distribution in hand, you are ready to install Linux. After you complete the installation, you may want to consider taking a course to learn about the many unique features and benefits of using Linux.