Millions of people are going to be getting netbooks over the holidays and many of them are going to come preloaded with a version of Windows.  Many people may not want to use Windows but aren’t aware of what alternatives may be out there.  Below are some other options to consider.  The major tradeoff with these alternatives is that Windows based programs won’t work so if you need to specifically use a program like Microsoft Outlook or Excel, you may be better off staying with Windows.

Jolicloud – http://www.jolicloud.com/

Unbuntu Netbook Remix – http://www.ubuntu.com/GetUbuntu/download-netbook

Intel Moblin – http://moblin.org/downloads

There are all different variations of Linux which means that you will have to worry less about viruses and unauthorized intrusion.  Many times you can install these on a USB drive and boot into it instead of having to wipe your had drive and start from scratch.  This way you get to try it before you decide to commit to it 100%.

1. More Details About Intel’s Cedar Trail Netbook Chip

2. GMA500 Based Netbooks Get A Boost

3. Intel To Face More Anti-Trust Charges For Pineview?

4. Jolicloud & Chrome OS To Fight For Netbook Relevance

5. Moblin Linux Provides Video Drivers To Make Netbooks Fly