Surefire, with the latest versions of Linux you can install it and have it up and running as easy (maybe easier) than you can Windows. The driver diversity is incredible, and I haven't found anything personally that I couldn't do with Linux that I do with Windows, if I could afford to buy some of the programs for Linux that I have invested in MS. I think I own at least one room of Bill Gates house....
The other thing to consider is whether your computer might be able to run both OS's. Not at the same time of course (although that can be done these days) but to choose at boot time. What is your processor speed, HD capacity, etc.? I have both OS's on my machine, and boot to the one I need.
Just a few things to think over....I'm sure Borfast is the one you really need to be talking with...
ImaD