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.

  • LogarithmicCamel@feddit.uk
    1·
    1 year ago

    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.

    • offby1@infosec.pub
      0·
      1 year ago

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

      • Ádám@discuss.tchncs.deEnglish
        1·
        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.

  • CAPSLOCKFTW@lemmy.ml
    0·
    1 year ago

    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

    • socphoenix@midwest.social
      1·
      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!