I have had four computers in 13 years. Windows 3.1, windows 98, xp (my current desktop) and now a vista laptop (hubby bought it for me this xmas). All of our computers DH built. No extra software just the programs I use and run. I have never had any issues in the 13 years (knock on wood) am I lucky?! YES! I still have all my software (I keep upgrading of course). When friends I know have issues with their computers it is usually due to all the crap software that is installed on the computer. My needs are simple. I have my word, power point, excel, adobe programs, capturing programs, web building software, email program (not outlook . . . I use incredimail and love it . . . have been using it since 2001), itunes, web browser IE, movie maker for creating my movies and burning to dvd, and basically that's about it. Maybe a few more I've missed but my xp desktop and my vista notebook are sweet and I love them! I'm set for another few years!

And connecting wirelessly is a breeze with my new vista laptop. I've signed up with vpn for a secure connection and it works like a charm.

VPN

You can find me in a bookstore or starbucks sometimes connected with my laptop!

Oh I do use a mac at work. I work in a school district that uses mainly pcs but a few of the older schools (mine) have macs and they are good too. Although currently we are having a few issues with them but our tech people are great.