New book explains how to "Just Say No" to Windows

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Nov. 01, 2005

Crashes, viruses, worms, patches, forced-upgrades... Despite all these drawbacks, why does Windows still dominate the PC desktop? Why haven't users switched to Mac or Linux? Tony Bove answers these questions and explains how to "escape the Beast from Redmond and still function," in his new book, Just Say No to Microsoft.

According to its publisher, Just Say No to Microsoft is an entertaining overview of the computer desktop world, but it also features practical information about alternative operating systems and programs that will help Microsoft captives exercise their freedom of choice.

After tracing Microsoft's rise from tiny startup to "monopolistic juggernaut," Just Say No to Microsoft "chronicles how the company's practices have discouraged innovation, stunted competition, and helped foster an environment ripe for viruses, bugs, and hackers." Bove also examines other operating systems, such as Linux and Macintosh, and Microsoft Office alternatives that will keep readers productive and able to interact with their Microsoft-using colleagues and friends without missing a beat.

The author covers the following topics:

The history of Microsoft and its dominance of the software industry
Thorough discussions of Linux, OpenOffice.org, Macintosh, and other Microsoft alternatives
Freeware, open source, and other programs that can replace the buggy, virus-prone Microsoft Office suite
Bove's "12 Steps To Freedom" for kicking the Microsoft addiction and living a clean computing life

PC Magazine columnist John Dvorak says, in his introduction to the book, "You are about to read one of the most interesting overviews of modern desktop computing history that's ever been written."

The table of contents can be found here, and you can download Chapter 4, entitled "Slay the Word and You'll Be Free," here.

Summary

Just Say No to Microsoft

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