I'm trying to set up a site with functions for members (i.e. members can see information they have prioritized when logging in, store email list, and have shopping cart etc.) Why are all the pre-installs for Linux only. Can I use a Linux account even if I'm a windows platform user on home comp.? Can windows users get fantastico?

Finally, if I have to install it myslef, anyone know any good scripts (php) for the above mentioned functions? Thanks for your help.

Fantastico isn't included in windows accounts.

Almost all preinstalled scripts on windows are asp based.

they are:

ASP Simple Upload
ASP Whois Version 3
AspSmartMail
Dundas Mailer
Dundas Upload
Dundas Pie Chart
Dimac W3 Jmail Professional
etc.

Also we'll help you install any soft if it is not contrary to our policy.

I'm not an ASP fan so am I better off switcthing to linux package? Can I use the Linux package even if I manage web content from microsoft computers? Does it make a difference? Thanks.

P.S. on the windows version can I install programs like phplist myself, or will I need support to do that?

My account is 1wo.org

if you don't need ASP then there's no reason to be on a windows host.

Switch to a linux host.
Get shell access.
Install scripts yourself.

You'll be a better person for it...