Alternatives to Vista

new Windows Vista operating system, some computer users nationally and locally are continuing a quest to run computers and programs without the megacorporation or others like it.

Monday, The New York Times reported the formation of the Linux Foundation, a group with a mission to help Linux, a free, open-source operating system, compete with Windows.

(In the open source movement, users typically receive free access to software programs in exchange for agreeing to make any improvements to the programs' source code open to the public as well.) That evening, a group of Southeast Texans met, as they do twice a month, to discuss Linux and other open source software, saying that open source programs give users more control, less corporate oversight and greater protection from viruses.

"I just get tired of people telling what I can do with something I bought and paid for," said Nederland resident Lonny Nettnay, who met at the Logon Caf with a handful of other Linux users. Windows copyright restrictions sometimes make CDs or DVDs unplayable, said Nettnay, 45, and a bowling alley mechanic.

When it comes to operating systems, users also see Linux as more secure than Windows against viruses and other problems. Since Linux can be customized and does not exist in one standard form, it is less of a target for spyware, said Sean Hinz, 18, of Port Arthur. He recently finished high school and is hoping to go to college to study computers. Some users said they turn to open source software because they are frustrated with the cost of Microsoft's offerings. Philip Hayhurst, owner of Amazing Computerbudz!! in Beaumont, said he often installs open source programs such as OpenOffice on computers to save his customers money. The price of Microsoft Office can range from $149 to $679, according to Microsoft's Web site.

OpenOffice, which mirrors Microsoft's Office suite, is available for free on the Web