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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Interested in learning more (self.linux)

submitted 1 year ago by Tantheiel to c/[email protected]

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Hello. I've been a window user from win95. I'd like to learn more about Linux but don't know where to start. I had a brief intro when I was in highschool and recently I've been seeing more and more talk here on Lemmy. Mostly memes.

With how bad Google is finding good information unless I add -reddit to my search. Which I won't do. Trying to stay away from that.

What can I expect to find as a casual observer? Why does Linux do that's "better" than Windows? That's not meant to inflame anyone. More so what do you personally like better.

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[–] [email protected] 5 points 1 year ago

I started using Linux because I was curious. I installed the "Ubuntu distribution" (a Linux "flavor" with preinstalled software to make your life easier), and started goofing around: first navigating the web using the web browser, which isn't a much difference experience than windows, then did my programming courses in there for university, installed a few games, and broke the system many, many times because I had no idea how to install stuff ! (Protip: it uses a "store-like" approach, like on Android, rather than running .exe installers ;))

The best way to learn it, is to try it ! I'd suggest Ubuntu, because it worked for me 15 years ago, and it's the simplest approach you have to discover it, as the system will be ready to do the most basic tasks (browse the web, edit document, watch videos, etc...). You won't have to struggle with searching and installing software, and can just discover it.

Now about your question, it's not about how Linux is "better" than windows. It isn't, and doesn't try to be. The most important trait is that it's "different", and you gotta find what it means for you.

I won't lie, using Linux as a daily driver is harder than using windows (much less than it was 15 years ago!), because of hardware/software compatibility, user support, etc... But it is also so much refreshing! You get to change every tiny bit of your system, you can swap components easily, eg replace the default web browser, change the windowing system for another "desktop environment", and take back control of your privacy while doing computer stuff.

So here's my best advice to you: Try it out! Break stuff, restart from scratch, and keep learning that way. This was the most fun I had regarding computers for my whole life, and now I simply cannot switch back :)