This is the best and proven setup for Linux to use as a home user or business user. I have used Linux since 2000 and straight 80% linux at home (games require windows) since 2003 and 100% at work since 2005. I have worked at 3 State Agencies and a fortune 500 company.

I use Linux for servers only now.

Below is the best programs to use instead of the basic programs most people use on Windows.
1. Windows OS > Redhat variant. I mainly use CentOS.
2. Exchange/Outlook > Evolution. This program connects to exchange servers with full use of the tasks, calendar, email, and contacts. It even allows you to schedule meetings and accept invitations.
3. Office Suite > LibreOffice. It opens and saves in word, excel, & powerpoint. It also opens and saves into various other suites.
4. IE/Chrome > Firefox/Chrome. Nothing to say, same stuff you already have.
5. Burn CD/DVD > K3b. Fantasic program for burning data to CD/DVD's if you still do this.
6. DVDFab or DVD Ripping/Copying > k9copy.
7. Windows VPN > NetworkManager has IPsec and PPTP vpn builtin. Lack of SSTP hurts.
8. NetExtender > Sonicwall version of SSL-VPN. They make it for Linux too.
9. Media Player > mplayer with smplayer not only plays Windows Media Player files but also realmedia and quicktime.
10. Remote Desktop > rdesktop, very important if using Linux at work.