You can run it alongside Windows in a dual-boot system. You can even run it "live" off a DVD or USB stick to try it out first. You have absolutely nothing to lose, and from the description of your problems, rather a lot to gain.
By clicking on the User Name, you will requery the forum for that user. You will see everything that he or she has posted with that Mudcat name.
By clicking on the Thread Name, you will be sent to the Forum on that thread as if you selected it from the main Mudcat Forum page.
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