this post was submitted on 27 May 2024
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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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[–] [email protected] 7 points 6 months ago (5 children)

I've tried to install Arch on my spare Dell laptop a week or two ago, and failed spectacularly twice in quick succession. I was using the arch wiki, assisted by GPT4 on things that were not clear to me. Just kept running into issue after issue after issue until five hours later I gave up.

I'll try again when I have the time.

[–] [email protected] 22 points 6 months ago (1 children)

Arch should never be anyone's first distro.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 6 months ago (1 children)

It's not my first distro. Does Ubuntu and Mint over ten years ago count though? They were easier to install than Windows XP.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 6 months ago (1 children)

Why do you want to install Arch?

[–] [email protected] 2 points 6 months ago (1 children)

Seems to be what I want. Highly customizable, stable and widespread user base.

[–] [email protected] 7 points 6 months ago (1 children)

You could try EndeavourOS, it's based off Arch, so 99% of the Arch wiki can be directly applied to your system, and the installation process is much more normal with a GUI and a selection of Desktop Environment to choose from.

The hardest part with Arch is getting the initial setup working imo, so you can put a few more hours trying to install it (if you're ready to bear the frustration that might come with it) or pick a distro like EndeavourOS with a GUI installer to get a working system quicker.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 6 months ago

I second EndeavourOS. Installation is dead simple and it’s given me no issues (that weren’t caused by me tinkering) over the last few months.

[–] [email protected] 8 points 6 months ago

Most people start off with something a bit easier - Fedora, Mint, Ubuntu. There's no reason to jump straight into Arch.

[–] [email protected] 4 points 6 months ago

Have you tried this? It's an installer built into the iso. It isn't graphical but it's much easier than the usual method.

[–] elbarto777 4 points 6 months ago

Arch and chat gpt.

Try Mint next time.

[–] MintyFresh 3 points 6 months ago

I just switched using mint as my new OS. It was so easy. My computer runs so much quicker now. All my steam games just work. Feel free to DM me if you need any pointers!