cygwin

how can i use/install vi with cygwin? and other packages.. if possible?

Hi guys, I jus wanna know if cygwin ( www.cygwin.com/ ) can be used in place of linux for a beginner, and is it worth downloading :?: (it is appoxly 550mb in size :shock: ) . I also want to know if i can compile all the applications meant for linux on it. thanx, :) Surya