this post was submitted on 23 Aug 2023
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Linux

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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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With the new computer and the newer Microsoft Windows updates they have really jam packed their OS with bloat and spyware. That being said I have no idea what I’m doing with Linux, need help with where to start.? What are some general tips? I understand there’s a lot of prebuilt Linux distributions or something what are some first timer friendly ones? Really any help is appreciated because the biggest barrier to entry is the perceived difficulty of actually doing it.

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[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 year ago (1 children)

I can't believe no one mentioned this yet. I hope OP reads this comment. The first step is to make sure this new computer you want to buy is compatible with Linux. Otherwise your experience will be very frustrating, no matter what distro you choose. That is, if you can install any distros at all. Ask the vendor if this machine is compatible with Linux.

[–] [email protected] 0 points 1 year ago (1 children)

What? Compatible with Linux? How would it not be? Linux runs on so much more than windows.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 year ago

There is some obscure/proprietary hardware that doesn't play nicely with linux. Fingerprint readers may not work on laptops, for example. I've had trouble with a trackpad in the past.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 year ago

@qooqie Install tromjaro and use it without big worries or understanding

[–] [email protected] 0 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Linux Mint is great for beginners. Have you ever installed windows? Installing Linux Mint is as easy as that. The day to day use is not much different compared to windows. Don't be afraid to try it out, you can always go back to windows if it does not work out for you

[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 year ago

Focus on simple things first too! I see a ton of people talking (in other threads) about not wanting to deal with the terminal/command line and that is fine. Mint will install/set up hardware without it and includes a software store that will handle everything via the GUI. Once it's installed check the store out and get the apps you want/need.

Then focus on one thing at a time - i.e. pick an app you need you haven't found/setting you really want to change and start googling/asking here for tips/help. Like any OS there will be some differences to get used to but you don't need to learn all at once!

[–] [email protected] 0 points 1 year ago (1 children)

@qooqie Start with the most user friendly distro TROMjaro. Even my mom computer retarded have no problems of using it.