Not sure what to do.

[drsimnal]

So, I've always had PCs; currently have an HP desktop that is probably 2-3 years old. It's been ok for stuff, runs CS3 and LR fine. However, in the last 6 months I have had 2 major crashes due to virus issues. The last one I used the PC recovery function and now I need to reinstall all my programs. I was thinking maybe it's time to upgrade. I am tempted by a Mac, but all my software is PC. I know Mac's can run windows stuff, but would it be a lot slower? The Mac is tempting due to the resistance to viruses. Is this a real advantage or just hype? I have a nice Eizo monitor and a Canon i9000 printer. I have all my images stored on a ReadyNAS duo. Thanks for any advice!

[OdiN1701]

Buying a Mac to emulate Windows to run your Windows software is a bad idea.

The resistance to viruses on a Mac is just hype. However, it doesn't happen as much because Mac's have a small market share compared to Windows, so the virus writers target the majority of the computers out there and write for Windows.

However - utilizing careful browsing methods and not doing things like opening email attachments you don't know are coming, etc. will prevent viruses on PC's. I don't run a virus scanner - never have since DOS and I haven't had a virus. Just don't browse to shady sites or download free toolbars and similar "free" software. Limewire and other file sharing apps are known for spreading viruses through the adware they install or by downloading something from them.

If you want a new system, I would recommend finding a reputable PC dealer and having one custom built. Buy some system image software. Setup the PC as you like it - with all your programs/updates, etc. installed. Then make an image, so if you ever do have to restore from the image - it will be with all programs and things installed. Then just be careful about what you download/where you go online.

[MaxxuM]

So, I've always had PCs; currently have an HP desktop that is probably 2-3 years old. It's been ok for stuff, runs CS3 and LR fine. However, in the last 6 months I have had 2 major crashes due to virus issues. The last one I used the PC recovery function and now I need to reinstall all my programs. I was thinking maybe it's time to upgrade. I am tempted by a Mac, but all my software is PC. I know Mac's can run windows stuff, but would it be a lot slower? The Mac is tempting due to the resistance to viruses. Is this a real advantage or just hype? I have a nice Eizo monitor and a Canon i9000 printer. I have all my images stored on a ReadyNAS duo. Thanks for any advice!

As a Mac person the only real reason to switch to a Mac is for the "Mac Experience" and not just to avoid viruses. It is true, there are almost no Mac viruses and security is pretty good on a Mac - but it can be hacked just like a PC. The best ways to avoid viruses is good surfing habits & good up to date anti-virus software.

Now, if I were you I would go to a local Apple Store (or Best Buy) and play with a Mac for twenty minutes. If it's for you then start looking at your options and asking questions here and on other forums. If you choose a PC, they're pretty much a dime a dozen with superficial differences between them with most people just getting whatever is cheapest, brand choice and/or support quality (which is pretty much mediocre across the board though Dell is a bit above the rest).

[tim]

Get a hardware firewall/router/switch, that will prevent a bunch of issues. Run good antivirus software. Next get Symantec Ghost, image your system drive once you've done a reinstall, that way you can recover from a virus in 20 minutes.

[René Damkot]

Also, when you run windows on a Mac, it in fact *is* a PC.
So any virus issues you're having now, you'll have then.

I agree on the router and good surfing habits.

[zacker]

i second good antivirus, good surfing habits and used something like fire fox instead of IE... I use IE 8 beta now it seems ok and seems a bit faster than FF but im not sure its as secure...