i know right? i mean isnt there a chance to get caught or something? id rather pay for my own then have another os installed into my comp. do you think itll harm anything if he does it? thanks so much for your reply Jim.

The legal status of "borrowing" someone else's Internet connection isn't something I'm qualified to comment on. Windows XP home is equipped with software to locate and connect to wireless networks. It will not connect to a properly secured wireless network without information available only from the organization or individual responsible for the network. Neither will Linux.

Jim

Linux is not needed in order to locate wireless networks. XP Home can do that. If your friend is suggesting that you use someone else's wireless network without their authorization, that's not a very good idea.

There's no such thing as "free Internet". It's only a question of who's paying for the connection. I'd suggest obtaining a cable or DSL connection that's your own.

HomeNetHelp.com has lots of information that you'll find helpful in choosing a method of connecting to the Internet, as does Linksys.

Jim

There are several Linux distributions, so the answer would depend on which distribution were installed and how it's installed. Most distributions allow Linux to be installed without destroying the currently installed operating system. That's clearly the best choice.

But...once again...Linux is not needed in order to locate wireless networks.

Jim

are there any potential problems in installing linux on your system..or my system..?

Additonally, unless you know how to use it, you wont get much done on your computer.

I'm relieved that your system's back as it was before that attempt. Considering the extensive wireless support present in XP, I have no idea why your friend thought a Linux installation would be of any benefit.

Jim

all in all i was confused as to what he was trying to do..and he wasnt being too specific..since he knows i hardly would know what he was talking about..which is why i got on here for a few answers..needless to say..he did try it..and couldnt compile my driver..whatever that means..and tried to uninstall linux but failed to get into windows...so he hacked into my master boot something and fixed....Thats the info i got..so far my comp is back to normal......but yeah that is why i have to come here and other places for answers. thanks guys.