I shifted to Ubuntu recently not because of hardware issues but because of malwares, spywares, viruses, worms and what have you.
Your choice of OS saves a lot of money to that manager you told us. For one, Linux OS needs little maintenance in terms of protection. Yes it has its own firewall (ubuntu in this case) and some new anti-virus applications but what it does it to take up space and is nothing more than a psychological secutiry thinking that you are protected. They don't cost a penny, mind you.
I guess you are one of the enlightened. In Africa Ubuntu means "Humanity for Others", in my country it is appropriately DAMAYAN - it's roughly the same. Thanks... spread the free OS!

Well put. 

Been there. I've got a workstation that is particularly nasty with Windows. Once a year, on a certain time of a certain day if I can avoid the dogs, the security lasers and cameras, and do a triple back flip through a mail box, I can install Windows on it. 
Ok, so it's not that bad, but I have to use some work arounds to get it to install and it normally takes around 3 hours including prep. Only machine I've ever had this issue with. Funny thing, Ubuntu installs without complaint.

Word to the wise, NEVER buy a machine without having a true OS install disk included. That restore crap is a shady way for OEM's to save a few pennies per unit. If they have both, then great, they're making life easier for the average joe and the guy that knows how to setup a computer without the color coding. By the way, if you buy a machine of the shelf and find out that there is no OS install disk when you get home, call the manufacturer and request one. If they refuse, take the machine back, tell them it's incomplete or broken, and that you want your money back.