A Windows User Wanting to Switch To Linux

[TheGLIVEN]

I am a current Windows user, and I am trying to get my non-internet accesible computer hooked up to Linux. But, I have a few questions about it.


How much does Linux cost?
Where can I get it?
Can Windows programs run on it?
Any tips/tricks?
Will I need to completely get new software?
Thanks!

[Mog]

I am a current Windows user, and I am trying to get my non-internet accesible computer hooked up to Linux. But, I have a few questions about it.

How much does Linux cost?
Where can I get it?
Can Windows programs run on it?
Any tips/tricks?
Will I need to completely get new software?Thanks!
I have little experience with Linux so I'll answer what I can.

1. It's free if you can download it, but there are also some major Linux releases like Mandrake that you can buy in a place like Office Max for maybe $20.

2. BT trackers will have the downloadable iso's (A legal BT download? Amazing.) Or a circuit-city/BB/Office Max.

3. I'm sure there might be a few, but the majority of programs are not compatible with both.

4. There are many Linux's out there and they mostly differ in the GUI. You might want to try a few like Red Hat/Mandrake/etc before you find one you like.

5. Back in the day nothing came with Linux options, but that has probably changed now. If need be you can always get a Windows emulator for Linux.

[Roman Legion]

There are plenty of versions available for free. If you've never used Linux before, you could check out "Live CD's," which won't require any long-term commitment, as they simply run straight off a disk. Alternately, if you have a spare system lying around and want to jump right in... go for it.

It's possible to run a number of Windows applications, but don't expect to do so right away. It'll take a bit of experience, and there are no guarantees that any given program will work. That having been said, there's a ton of available software for Linux, enough to fill most of your needs... probably.

You'll have to get used to a slightly different desktop environment, likely either KDE or Gnome, but I'd stick to KDE at first, since it'll feel more familiar. Either way, you'll want to learn how to use the command prompt eventually.

--Romey

[Anthonynotes]

I've been using Linux for over a year now (switched from an old Mac running OS 9; didn't care much for OS X's GUI changes from OS 9 [despite liking the BSD stuff running underneath], was curious about Linux, and didn't have the money for lots of new software/a new Mac).

The version (or "distro" as they call it) of Linux I use is called Ubuntu, a fairly popular Linux distro for its ease of use/installation. (Ubuntu uses a desktop environment called "Gnome", which has some similarities to MacOS; there's also the related version called "Kubuntu", which uses the more Windows-like KDE as an interface, but is basically the same as Ubuntu otherwise). A CD image of Ubuntu can be downloaded (or a free CD ordered) from Ubuntu's website: www.ubuntu.com

[SirLemming]

To answer the big question which you may or may not have, you do run the risk of losing your hard drive data when you install another operating system. If you don't have a spare hard drive or partition, you will likely need to move the data off of it and then format it before installing Linux. I think there are some ways around it (like PartitionMagic or something, which may not require you to format your whole hard drive to make a partition), but even if there are, you should still back up. Linux and Windows use different file systems, which basically means that even if they did allow you to install Linux on the same partition, it wouldn't be able to read anything.

[Andy Mancini]

Linux and Windows use different file systems, which basically means that even if they did allow you to install Linux on the same partition, it wouldn't be able to read anything.
Actually, both FAT32 (the partition used for Windows 95 to ME) and NTFS (the Microsoft proprietary partition used in NT and XP) can be read in Linux. FAT32 is the only one that can written to safely, however.

As for me, I have been running Fedora Core 5 on my laptop for a few months now. I love it, but I wouldn't recommend it to a newbie. I'd go with either Ubuntu, Mepis, or Mandriva if I were you. And I have to disagree with the others above and say to start out with Gnome. Yes, KDE looks like Windows, but overall, Gnome is much easier to use right out of the box.

[solarflere]

I suggest you try Knoppix DVD distro first. Its a Linux OS inside a DVD, which means no installs and can run from any PC. Its a good way to get to know what Linux is all about. And its free.

[TheGLIVEN]

All this computer chat confuses me....can anyone dumb it down for me? :anime:


I suggest you try Knoppix DVD distro first. Its a Linux OS inside a DVD, which means no installs and can run from any PC. Its a good way to get to know what Linux is all about. And its free. The comp. has no DVD player.

[Mog]

All this computer chat confuses me....can anyone dumb it down for me? :anime:

The comp. has no DVD player.
I hate to say it, but Linux isn't as user friendly as Windows so if you can't follow basic computer chat than you probably won't be able to use Linux efficiently enough to favor switching.

But this is just my knowledge from a few years back. Maybe things are different now.

[TheGLIVEN]

Well, basically I just want to know WHAT I should get and wher to get it. Not that it confuses me, but rather that I just want y'all to tell me that.

[solarflere]

Well, basically I just want to know WHAT I should get and wher to get it. Not that it confuses me, but rather that I just want y'all to tell me that.Its quite simple, Linux is not for an average person. Linux has to be used with a specific purpose in mind. Thats it. Its either a server, a coding machine or something else totaly different and complicated. Stick to Windows and save yourself the headache. Its not for you.

[TheGLIVEN]

Its quite simple, Linux is not for an average person. Linux has to be used with a specific purpose in mind. Thats it. Its either a server, a coding machine or something else totaly different and complicated. Stick to Windows and save yourself the headache. Its not for you. Okay, sounds. Thank you for your help!

[One Radical Dude]

If you do want to learn how to use Linux, read some stuff on the OS, and learn about the different distributions. I do encourage people to give it a shot, but do read some tutorials on the OS first. I recommend not using FAT32 for Linux, and instead, create separate partitions for Linux.

[TheGLIVEN]

Can you suggest a good tutorial?

[Anthonynotes]

Its quite simple, Linux is not for an average person. Linux has to be used with a specific purpose in mind. Thats it. Its either a server, a coding machine or something else totaly different and complicated. Stick to Windows and save yourself the headache. Its not for you.

I use it for pretty mundane computer stuff (playing mp3s, surfing the web, writing, etc.; all stuff that I'd use Windows or a Mac for); not for anything server or programming-related. Think it *could* be for an average person with a bit of hand-holding/thought (and use of one of the more user-friendly distros) depending on what their computer usage is...

-B.

[solarflere]

I use it for pretty mundane computer stuff (playing mp3s, surfing the web, writing, etc.; all stuff that I'd use Windows or a Mac for); not for anything server or programming-related. Think it *could* be for an average person with a bit of hand-holding/thought (and use of one of the more user-friendly distros) depending on what their computer usage is...

-B.With that said, how many good, popular and widely available software is actualy for Linux distros (besides Open Source)? Not a whole lot.

[Aquadementia]

Gliven, I think what you want is LyokoX.
That distro hasn't come out yet. ;)

I am a current Windows user, and I am trying to get my non-internet accesible computer hooked up to Linux. But, I have a few questions about it.

So, if you have a computer that's just being a brick, then as someone who is the antithesis of Romey said, go for it.
Wha'da ya got ta lose?
No, seriously, if there are things you don't want to lose make sure they are all safely stored on cd's or something.

Linux can be easy enough for the novice to use.
HOWEVER, if setting something up doesn't work right away, you may get that lost at sea feeling.

There are books and sites that offer tricks and quick fixes, but Linux demands you know what you're doing. The best approach is study thoroughly. After all, it sounds like you are looking to learn, and we all have to start from the beginning.

To learn a few Linux basics, I've got a few links for you.
http://www.molecularevolution.org/resources/computing.php
http://www.tldp.org/LDP/gs/node5.html
http://www.linux.org/lessons/beginner/toc.html
http://www.aboutdebian.com/linux.htm
http://www.linux-tutorial.info/modules.php?name=Tutorial&pageid=224]
And then there's a good reference sheet to print off and keep handy. http://homepage.powerup.com.au/~squadron/
I don't think they are particularly well written so a beginner can comprehend it easily.
What you should do is start by going to the library and page through a few of their books. Find one you're comfortable with.
And there are a few new quick start books at the book store.



What you need to know is how to install Linux and get your Xserver started.
Reading the user manual on your distro's web page should tell you everything you need to know.
If you get a live CD, you can skip this step because your computer just boots to the CD-ROM without touching your hard drive.

You should know the basics like how the directory structure is different then Windows, and learn a couple of the fundamental commands that will help you get around.

There are may different Distributions of Linux out there.
Actually, Linux is just a small part of it. Each distribution has it's own way of doing things, like making software instillation easy. And the Graphical User Interface is quite separate from the os. There are a number of different desktop GUI's to choose from. If you have a really old computer, you may want to choose a light weight one over KDE or Gnome.
Linux is extremely customizable, yet there is so much commonality it's vary natural moving from one system to another.

You've been given a number of good suggestions, so go to Distrowatch.com (http://www.distrowatch.com). You can find links there to the distos home page, forums, and download sites.
If you don't have broadband or can't download and burn a .iso image, there are sites that sell them as low as 99 cents per disk.

As far as your programs go, the easiest way to go is find linux alternatives. There are good alternatives out there for all the common ones.

I think you can school yourself on Linux, as long as you're willing to learn.



With that said, how many good, popular and widely available software is actualy for Linux distros (besides Open Source)? Not a whole lot.I suppose if you want to ignore the tens of thousands of good, popular, widely available programs developed according to the open source model that is the foundation of Linux, and I suppose you're also including programs ported over from windows or can run on Linux thanks to wine or emulators, then maybe you do have a point about the Naruto dub not being any good.

[Anthonynotes]

This website lets you take a simple quiz (with questions based on your level of computer skills/what you desire in computer usage) to suggest what Linux distributions might work best for you:

http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php

[TheGLIVEN]

Thank you all for your help!

Aquamenteria: Thank you very much! I'll have to get aornd to reading those when I return to my regualr Comp. No, LyokoX, huh? :sweat:


Here is what the test showed, Brainatra:

We found the following perfect match(es):

http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/blank.gifUbuntu

Homepage: http://www.ubuntulinux.org/ (http://www.ubuntulinux.org/)
Screenshots: Click to view screenshots of this distribution (http://shots.osdir.com/slideshows/slideshow.php?release=659&slide=4)Ubuntu is a free, open source operating system that starts with the breadth of Debian and adds regular releases (every six months), a clear focus on the user and usability (it should "Just Work", TM) and a commitment to security updates with 18 months of support for every release. Ubuntu ships with the latest Gnome release as well as a selection of server and desktop software that makes for a comfortable desktop experience off a single installation CD.

(This distribution also has a "Live CD" you can use to test the distribution before you install it)
http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/blank.gifMandriva

Homepage: http://www.mandrivalinux.org/ (http://www.mandrivalinux.org/)
Screenshots: Click to view screenshots of this distribution (http://shots.osdir.com/slideshows/slideshow.php?release=531&slide=24)Mandriva Linux (formerly known as Mandrake Linux) was created in 1998 with the goal of making Linux easier to use for everyone. Mandriva offers all the power and stability of Linux to both individuals and professional users in an easy-to-use and pleasant environment.

(This distribution also has a "Live CD" you can use to test the distribution before you install it)

In addition, we found these matches, sorted by how well they match:

Kubuntu
Kubuntu is a user friendly operating system based on KDE, the K Desktop Environment. With a predictable 6 month release cycle and part of the Ubuntu project, Kubuntu is the GNU/Linux distribution for everyone.

Visit Kubuntu at: http://www.kubuntu.org/ (http://www.kubuntu.org/)Failed these criteria:
Not suitable for beginners

Linspire
Linspire is a full-featured operating system like Microsoft Windows XP or Apple Mac OSX. Linspire offers you the power, stability and cost-savings of Linux with the ease of a windows environment. In addition, Linspire's CNR technology makes installing software on Linspire one-click easy.

Visit Linspire at: http://www.linspire.com/ (http://www.linspire.com/)Failed these criteria:
The full version is not free (gratis)

Xandros
Xandros Desktop OS version 3 is the ideal Linux distribution if you're migrating from Microsoft Windows. It's an intuitive graphical environment that works right out of the box and offers unrivaled compatibility with Microsoft Windows. Whether you're at home or school you'll find that Xandros Desktop OS has just what you need to write, chat, draw, surf, talk, e-mail, listen, and play in Linux.

Visit Xandros at: http://www.xandros.com/ (http://www.xandros.com/)Failed these criteria:
The full version is not free (gratis)

[solarflere]

I suppose if you want to ignore the tens of thousands of good, popular, widely available programs developed according to the open source model that is the foundation of Linux, and I suppose you're also including programs ported over from windows or can run on Linux thanks to wine or emulators, then maybe you do have a point about the Naruto dub not being any good.Show me how many Adobe or Ahead, or Macromedia or other huge brand software companies actualy make anything for Linux. Adobe has Adobe reader for Unix (not Linux) and thats about it. And Wine is the best Win Emu I have seen ever, and it almost never works. It was in development for 12 years and with their recent beta, its still a bunch of crap. There was never am emulator that could emulate a WinOS software for a Linux distro without problems. And Open Source programs can't be all that good because they don't have any financial backing or a proffesinal development team behind it. If a lot of OpenSource software from lets say sourceforge.net were commercialized, with a good dev team and good amount of money behind it, those programs would not even be compared to their free counterparts.
And what about Naruto? I don't recall having any oppinion about its dub.

[Roman Legion]

Show me how many Adobe or Ahead, or Macromedia or other huge brand software companies actualy make anything for Linux.First, I doubt that most average users are using any of the software you just named. Second, a numer of large companies do make graphics software for Linux, but these are even less likely to be used by the average user, so they're not worth mentioning.


And Open Source programs can't be all that good because they don't have any financial backing or a proffesinal development team behind it.Uhh... last I knew, there were plenty of Open Source projects with financial backing and / or professional teams. :sweat: Just not all of them. You might argue that most aren't, but heck... it's so easy to start one that such an argument shouldn't have much weight: there are a lot to begin with. The fact that a project is Open Source has nothing to do with who's on the teams or whether or not there's a cash-flow involved.

--Romey

[Aquadementia]

Show me how many Adobe or Ahead, or Macromedia or other huge brand software companies actualy make anything for Linux. Adobe has Adobe reader for Unix (not Linux) and thats about it. And Wine is the best Win Emu I have seen ever, and it almost never works. It was in development for 12 years and with their recent beta, its still a bunch of crap. There was never am emulator that could emulate a WinOS software for a Linux distro without problems. And Open Source programs can't be all that good because they don't have any financial backing or a proffesinal development team behind it. If a lot of OpenSource software from lets say sourceforge.net were commercialized, with a good dev team and good amount of money behind it, those programs would not even be compared to their free counterparts.
And what about Naruto? I don't recall having any oppinion about its dub.It's kind of a goofy argument saying Linux software can't be good because it's not commercial.

I think it's pretty easy to guess why large software companies don't develop for the Linux desktop is because it only has a tiny share of the market. The number of users that have it as their only desktop OS is even smaller.
And they don't put out open source software because they've always been closed and frankly, I don't think they like showing everyone their code.

I don't know how you think commercializing programs will improve them. Once it becomes a matter of profit, the actual program isn't always the most important part of a business.
I'm tempted to say commercial competition limits the diversity of programs as the field becomes dominated by a single player, but the market for the Linux desktop is so small I doubt many of the most popular programs could even be considered a financial success by investors.

Unix development is incredibly interdependent. If massive numbers of projects started to become proprietary and market reasons cause them to close down, it would slowdown development as a whole.
As long as things remain open source, even if the maintainers call it quits it doesn't put everyone else at a disadvantage. That's just basically the development model Linux has taken, and it's producing result. It's given people an alternative OS that they can use, modify, and get things done with.