Got a netbook with it a few months ago. Our first linux. Software updates automatically every few days. Using Open Office we've been able to open every MS Office document we've previously created with zero learning curve. Firefox works the same as in Windows. It is much faster than Vista despite the fact that the processor is a fraction the size of our big laptop. Music and video programs are similar but less buggy than their MS counterparts. All in all, exceptional.

The only reason to hesitate would be if you use a specialized programs that offers only a Windows version. If so, see if they have a web based version or a linux based alternative.