We all know that Linux is far better than windows xp and Vista. However, here's a couple of optimization tips that will blow Windows XP and Vista out of the water.
Frankly, it makes sense. Linux, by default, is a multi-user, multi-service operating system. For personal user, however, you do not need some of the services that are often left turned on by default. The same goes true for almost all Unices available, e.g., Solaris, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, etc., when used as a personal desktop computing environment.