I first came across Linux through the Distrowatch website nearly 10 years ago. Linux Mint wasn't around at that time. But Ubuntu was! I was very unhappy the way that Windows XP was performing, and the lack of security measures had me worried with all those virues that are lurking around in some corrupted file. In the 10 years since, I have tried a lot of Linux distributions. I wanted something to replace my Windows. I first tried Linux Mint 6 as a live cd. It was ok. At least I was able to get some sort of audio. I really started to use Linux Mint when 11 came out. I was able to install it under Windows. I was 50% there. Currently, I am using Maya Mate 64 bit ed. installed under Windows. I like it better than Cinnamon. (personal choice) I use Maya 95% of the time now. The only issue that I have is that there is a Windows program that will not run when I use WINE. If I can resolve this issue, then I can ditch Windows forever. I would recommend Linux Mint to anyone. The only issue is the LMDE. I was unable to boot it as a live disc, despite that I have an up to date laptop. It doesn't matter, as I am now using MATE as my primary desktop environment.