Migrating to Linux - using windows emulation?

Question

I would like to know if anyone has tried using MS Office 2000 in the latest Linux ditros using WINE.

I am about to rebuild my PC and while I am currently using Win XP Pro SP3 I will be pushing the Limits of what this OS is capable of in terms of the RAM limit which I believe is just over 3 Gb.

I have tried out Linux before a couple of years ago, both Ubuntu 8 on a desktop and Mint LXDE on an old Dell Latitude C600 laptop however while I was really impressed with Linux performance (and ability to customise it) I stuck with Windows in part because I was unable to properly import my MS Office applications into Open Office - e.g. Excel formulae not working in the Open Office spreadsheet as well as not being able to use certain games in Linux. I use Excel, Access and Outlook (Office 2000) fairly extensively and while I would like to retain this I understand it does not work properly in newer versions of Windows and I don't want to go to the expense of buying a windows 7 or 8 licence and Office 2010. I also use Outlook for task management and basic CRM as well as just email but I could probably adapt to a similar application for Linux in time. In the case of Access I use customised Access forms so even if the basic database tables could be migrated to something like MySQL I doubt the interface could.

My likely plan is to migrate to Ubuntu or Kubuntu 12.04 (and later versions) over the next year or 2 but I will keep a partition with Windows XP anyway.

Another option I could consider is it possible to run Linux on a desktop PC while at the same time access the files on a NTFS partition (on said desktop) from a laptop running Windows XP via a home network?

Answer 1

I'm using an old Dell Latitude (2007 i think) with Ubuntu 12.04 and run Windows XP in Virtualbox so i can use my Ipod and play pc games.



Virtualbox lets you install as many OS as you're HDD can store. It works on Windows,Mac, and most Linux like Ubuntu. You can cross platform anyway that suits you.

Answer 2

This is a sticky situation. I've been there, and its an ugly one. I can tell you for sure, don't rely on Wine. Its okay, but its not going to be the god-send that you think it is.



If you truly want to migrate to Ubuntu/Kubuntu (which are the versions I recommend), then you need to just get used to Open Office. If it won't import your documents, then re-create them.



I believe Open Office has adequate replacement programs for Excel and Access. If not, you could take up learning PHP and MySQL and create your own online spreadsheets and databases. Thats a powerhouse way to go.



As for Outlook, I really don't understand what all the hype is about it. I understand its nice within a company to sync calendars and mail servers and stuff. Mozilla Thunderbird may do that also. If your email account is an online account, like yahoo or google, just use their online interface. I think its silly when people use outlook to check their online email.



Some other options are to just buy Windows 7. Its 200 bucks from newegg.com. Be careful not to get an upgrade version. You could also switch to a mac. They're pricey but everyone I know loves them.



No matter what avenue you choose, there will be lots of bumps and learning. Windows is still the best for gaming. Don't rely on Linux for that.



And lastly, yes, if you partition multiple operating systems, Kubuntu will find your other partitions and let you access them. I recommend you install windows first, make your partitions with their installer, then install linux.

Answer 3

I migrated. it should be confusing in the beginning, in view that many of the purposes you run on abode windows ought to no longer be accessible for Linux. For the most mart, hardware compatibility isn't an concern; except for Winmodems and some printers i have not got here upon any hardware i could not get to artwork. It does have different reward as well. case in factor, in case you're trying installation a retail reproduction of abode windows on a pc, you ought to spend time monitoring down drivers, while Linux distributions frequently comprise each and each and every of the drivers you'll need. you'll likely go via a cycle like this: a million. Intrigued and inspired. 2. annoyed 3. madly in love. regrettably, a lot of people do not attempt to make the courting artwork/are unwilling to compromise and in no way make it previous degree 2. I did, and also you may take Linux from me once you pry it from my chilly lifeless palms (even if i ought to gladly grant you with a duplicate).

Answer 4

If it's an aging computer, then you can try something a little lighter. lubuntu or xubuntu might be worth a try. You can samba share to share things with windows machines, that's easy. If libreOffice really doesn't read your files, then I don't have much of a solution, you should try saving them in a non-proprietary format.



It's certainly easier to live all in one world or the other.

Answer 5

Hi

Libre offic will open ALL microsoft files. .doc .docx.spreadsheets and presentations.