Yes Linux would be very safe and would run on your Dell. I would suggest Mint if you go that route. I wouldn't use the Dell that old for anything of any importance. I would not consider just because Windows Defender is up to date that makes WIN 10 safe to use. You've gotten your money's worth, whether you will be comfortable putting Linux on it I don't think I can judge from a distance.
I have a Lenovo laptop that same age and it will get Linux soon. It is just a backup machine now anyway. For what is it is worth I have a 2001 Dell Laptop that still works. It runs a version of LInux optimized for lower spec machines. I just keep it as a curiosity. I also have been using Linux on a desktop for around 20 years so it is familiar to me.
My suggestion is get a new Win 11 machine.
I have a Lenovo laptop that same age and it will get Linux soon. It is just a backup machine now anyway. For what is it is worth I have a 2001 Dell Laptop that still works. It runs a version of LInux optimized for lower spec machines. I just keep it as a curiosity. I also have been using Linux on a desktop for around 20 years so it is familiar to me.
My suggestion is get a new Win 11 machine.
Statistics: Posted by B88 — Tue Dec 02, 2025 12:33 am — Replies 31 — Views 2446