Well now. . . .
It seems that my original question has returned more than I had bargained for and I don't think I'm any further ahead. Perhaps my question should have read "Can I hope to install Linux straight out of the box and have an OS that works as well and as easily as MS?" From what I read I think not.
No matter, you folks have given me a fair insight into using Linux and it seem the scores are fairly even for and against.
Thanks to all for taking the time.
STL