Disappointed with Linux Lite already

[john9159]

I've been using Linux Lite for about two weeks out of necessity as internet access using Windows XP suddenly stopped on my laptop. Re-installing XP did not solve the problem.
I am reluctant to buy a new laptop/pc or to buy a new operating system such as Windows 7.

I am very disappointed so far with Linux as I am experiencing various problems, namely the following:

Cannot use AOL as my default browser as it is not compatible with Linux. This is necessary as AOL is my internet provider and I need access to my “favourite” folders which are not available via Firefox or any other medium.

Cannot use Yahoo Messenger. I am unable to install this as it is not compatible with Linux.

I am always asked to select the “language for import” when using Excel spreadsheet.

I am unable to read information being typed in the search bar as this is always blacked out.

I cannot use certain website such as the National Lottery in the UK, where I live, as I get a warning that I appear to reside outside of the UK.

Any suggestions for alternative free operating systems to Linux or Ubuntu which are more reliable?