I want to use Linux, will i be able to?

Question

Hi there guys. I have been hearing a lot of good points about linux as compared to windows like download speed (something related to a greater number of open ports n stuff)and better looks (for linux mint). Well the point is, I have been using windows all my life, I mean from 98 to ME to XP to Vista to Windows 7, well you get the draft.

I also heard that it isn't something for beginners [like ME (^_^) ] and when i say beginners like me, i mean noobs like me.

So i just wanted to know if I would be able to use LINUX fluently.

PS : please don't use a lot of tech answers in your answers cuz i get almost all of them from ma friends :|

Answer 1

I thoroughly recommend Linux Mint 6 Main Edition which is Ubuntu based. Its easy to install and easy to use plus it comes with much of the software you are likely to need preinstalled.



You would be best off RUNNING IT LIVE so you can get the feel of things.



Linux Mint 6 Release notes

http://www.linuxmint.com/rel_felicia_whatsnew.php



Linux Mint 6 Download

http://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=31



Once you have got the feel of things you may wish to consider an installation



The Perfect Desktop - Linux Mint 6 (Felicia)

http://www.howtoforge.com/the-perfect-desktop-linux-mint-6-felicia



You download the ISO. image of Linux Mint 6 then you need to create a Bootable CD from the ISO. This can easily be done using Nero Burning ROM or similar software. Linux Mint can also be run straight from the LiveCD you have created without touching your Hard Drive.



Remember you can RUN IT LIVE !





LUg.

Answer 2

The download speed is an utter fabrication. That being said I am posting this from within Ubuntu 9.04. Ubuntu, linux mint, suse, etc are all great distro for the novice. Don't need to be a "techy" at all!

Those saying otherwise are incorrect (you don't have to compile anything from source if you don't like there are package managers with binaries), and moreover what have you got to lose by just trying it out? It is free.

Answer 3

Hi yourself,



Here's the thing: you know how to install and then, if you want to, remove software from your windows machine?



If the answer is 'Yes' then you can try Ubuntu then delete it if you do not like it.

http://wubi-installer.org/

You need 5Gb on your hard drive.



When it is installed open firefox and come to this answer or write this down but you can't afford a spelling mistake.

Go to System, Administration, Synaptic

type in the search box

ubuntu-restricted-extras

don't forget the apply button - you now have codecs and flash player etc - the rest you can work out with google or email me about the software you want.

Regarding the download speeds: not true

There is a torrent client installed but I have 3 and one of them is utorrent (you can't get utorrent for Linux so I have to use 'WINE')



While you are installing ubuntu-restricted-extras, search for and install miro (it can act as a torrent client but check it out because I don't think there is anything like it in Windows). It is like Boxee but reliable.

Answer 4

Linux is often considered an OS for advanced users because of more encounters with command line, but these days it's not quite like that.

So don't be afraid and get a Linux OS. But be aware that many programs wont run on Linux environment.

Answer 5

If you download a version that is KDE, you will feel right at home with the Linux operating system. Kubuntu (For Ubuntu distributions) PCLinuxOS 2009-2 KDE (Mandriva based). Simply download the ones that are LiveCD and give them a test run before deciding to install them. Most can install to hard drive once they are booted up if that is what you want to do, but you don't have.

Answer 6

linux is much faster than windows in all ways... however I wouldn't agree on the open ports theory as that depends on your router and will be the same for all OS systems. by fast I mean the system load up time, optimized internet usage and app load up time.



majority of apps for linux are free and now there is a alternative for every single windows app. I would recommend you starting with ubuntu as that's the best for beginners as all menu are organized so you'll easily find what your looking for; and its fully compatible with windows dual booting and most of the latest linux .deb apps are fully compatible with ubuntu latest version's 9.04.

Answer 7

Well sure, it is obvious it'll be a long while before you are fluent enough to make use of it for any personal productivity. Because, frankly you are pampered by Windows setups. Everything about Linux can be assumed to be devoid of Windows connection unless stated otherwise.

Answer 8

no way, I tried to used Linux and it is far too complicated. It involves Distrol's and you have to compile the source code yourself. There are over 1000 versions and most of them are used on servers so you dont want that. Play it safe and stick with thr reliable Windows.