Fear switching to Linux no more!

Yes, fear not, you can still sync up your iPod. In fact, if you choose to use this open source iTunes-replacement for Linux -- Banshee -- you'll get all the features of the original, and more (such as built-in scrobbling to Last.fm). Now, isn't it time you tried Linux? Even if just for "fun", it's worth trying out a Live CD of Ubuntu Linux. Boot with the CD, poke around, and when you're done, just pop it out and reboot back to Windows. (Assuming you're not a Mac user; in which case, you're technically already using a version of Unix! Yes, shocking, isn't it.)

Of course, if you really want to get geeky, and still need to keep Windows running on your hard disk for other reasons, you can always install Linux to a USB stick -- that's what I did. You can boot from it, but unlike the Live CD option, it's a real system where your customizations are persistent. Install software (like Banshee), create documents, whatever... It's a true working installation. And it can travel with you! Pendrivelinux.com has several step-by-step guides to help you achieve this. You can get by with a 1 GB USB key, but I went all out and went for 8 GB; I want room for programs, documents, and even some music! (You will, of course, be able to access files from your machine's hard disk, but obviously those won't be able to travel with you.)