Word files should not be a problem. You can elect to purchase:
- Word 2011 ($150) or Office 2011 ($280);
- Apple Pages ($19.99) or the entire iWork suite ($59.97);
- NeoOffice (FREE)
and they well all open, edit, and save most Microsoft Office files, even those created on a PC.
Since you are using Mozilla 1.0.1 you would probably feel right at home with
Sea Monkey (formerly known as "Mpzilla Appl;ications Suite" and includes the Mozilla browser, an email application, HTML Editor,
etc.
When you described your use of the computer, it occured to me that a fully loaded iPad might well meet all your needs quite nicely. You would not even have to mess with a dialup internet account because the iPad can access the internet directly through the Edge or 3G network. Long term data storeage and backup would have to be on the web, but in exchange for that you cannot beat the portability and ability to work whereever you are. I know at least three friends who have elected to buy an iPad instead of a new laptop and they are happy campers.
