Changing webhosts

Not exactly Apple hardware, but anyways;

I used to have Netfirms which I have been using for 3 years now. They are pretty good; prices aren't bad and no downtime at all.

I recently decided to transfer all my domains from all the registrars I've been using to GoDaddy, and with my whole account coming up for renewal next week, I've been debating whether or not to switch hosts. I know GoDaddy has good service no doubt. However I have a few questions:

• How is their control panel? Is it easy to use and uncluttered? Does it make adding applications easy? Could someone show me some screenshots; I'd love that.
• I may install vBulletin on one of my websites; does GoDaddy give me console access to allow me to install my own applications?
• Can I create more than 8 characters for my email password? Do they offer IMAP services and if it's paid, is that the Outlook Web Access? My current host only has POP3 and allows a maximum of 8 characters for my passwords which is just strange and unsecure.
• How are the connections to speeds to the account? I put files on my site sometimes for people to download, so is the connection speedy? What are the average rates for you?
• Should I choose Linux or Windows? Please this isn't a Windows versus Linux kind of deal; I'm purely looking for one that's a better choice for holding different sites.
• For those of you who have the plan, I will be getting the unlimited plan since that's price I'm paying right now; what are the limits? Do they have secret caps?

Thanks.