For all their differences, Mac and Windows are more alike than you may initially grasp. If you’re switching from a Windows-based computer to a Mac, you’ll be happy to know that the following items remain consistent across platforms:
Macs and Windows PCs can share the same printers, scanners, digital cameras, mice, keyboards, and other peripherals.
Both systems are fluent in the common file types, including PDFs, JPEGs, and text.
Microsoft produces a version of Office for both platforms, so you can work in programs such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint with little difficulty. The Mac and Windows versions of Office have used the same files since Office 97 for Windows arrived.
The Mac can read most Windows PC-formatted CDs and DVDs.
Both sides can easily communicate by e-mail or using the AIM (AOL) instant messaging service.
You can access a MobileMe account from a Windows PC.
Versions of Windows Media Player, QuickTime Player, and RealPlayer work on a Mac.
Both Macs and Windows PC can be on the same wired or wireless network and share files.
Intel is now inside both computers.