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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How do y'all deal with programs not supported on Linux? (sh.itjust.works)

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

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I've been seeing all these posts about Linux lately, and looking at them, I can honestly see the appeal. I'd love having so much autonomy over the OS I use, and customize it however I like, even having so many options to choose from when it comes to distros. The only thing holding me back, however, is incompatibility issues. A lot of programs I work with very often are Windows-exclusive, and alternatives supporting Linux are rare. So I guess I'm stuck with Windows, since I deem those particular programs really important.

Any advice from Linux nerds here? All constructive replies are very appreciated.

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[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

The LibreOffice stuff generally has a workaround, even if frustrating. Most general use stuff on Linux is fine (again, not without pain wrt interoperability with my other systems).

My issue with Linux is the stuff that just doesn't run at all (software and HW). For niche stuff, you can occasionally find a halfway implemented bridge utility made by a well-meaning (and brilliant!) enthusiast, but, in my cases, it either doesn't work or is too glitchy to be anything more than a effort to see if I can get it to run as opposed to doing the task I set out to do originally. Add to that the fact that your (paid) software and HW is explicitly unsupported and at best at a "you're on your own" status, and it becomes a high risk proposition.

Make no mistake - trying to get stuff to work is fun in and of itself. I use Linux. It's fun. It's breathed fresh life into old machines. It was my daily driver for years. Etc.

Ultimately, I really, really wish more proprietary software and associated HW supported Linux. I'm happy to pay for stuff I need/want that is outside of the FOSS world. But until devs of commercial products recognize the value of investing in Linux, it's a game of whackamole.

In meantime, I still try to get my stuff to work on Linux. It's a much better OS, but to successfully run the stuff I need I am confined to Windows (with WSL) - unfortunately.