Returning to Linux After a Long Break: What Should I Know?

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Asked By CuriousCat1001 On

I'm diving back into Linux as my main desktop OS after a 12-year gap. I used to be an avid Ubuntu user from around 2005 to 2013, but then switched to Windows 8.1 and 10 for work. Now that I'm ready to switch back, I'm feeling a bit lost with all the changes, such as the introduction of Snap and Flatpak, diverse distros, and the current direction of software like Debian and Ubuntu. I'm also concerned about keeping my system stable since I use it for development, virtual machines, and other tasks like media management. My setup involves a decent 2017 PC with a Ryzen CPU, ample RAM, and I'm not really into gaming. I have several questions regarding the desktop environment, package management, graphics card support, encryption methods, file transfer, remote desktop software, and good hardware options. Excited to get feedback and insights to help me navigate my transition!

6 Answers

Answered By TechieTurtle55 On

Debian has made significant strides, releasing new stable versions every two years, with the latest just out recently. If you're looking for newer software, you can explore the backports repository, which helps bring newer packages to a stable environment without too much hassle.

Answered By 4KExpert2023 On

When it comes to using 4K displays with a KVM switch, if it's a good switch, you shouldn't have any issues. Just ensure that your graphics card and drivers are up to the task. For some cheaper KVMs, you may need to employ some workarounds for them to function properly with Linux, especially for resolutions like 4K.

Answered By SyncSavvyDude On

For syncing files like OneDrive, you might like Syncthing, which syncs folders across devices directly without a central server. It keeps things peer-to-peer and is relatively easy to set up, especially for local backups or across your own devices.

Answered By LinuxExplorer99 On

Ubuntu promotes Snap packages more than Debian does, which still solidly relies on APT. Some APT packages in Ubuntu now redirect to Snap installs, but Debian remains a pure APT distro if you prefer that. It's really about which ecosystem you're comfortable jumping into.

Answered By HardwareSeeker84 On

When looking for pre-built towers, make sure to check the WiFi card specifications explicitly. While most hardware works well on Linux, laptops are more hit-or-miss. However, desktops generally have good support. For graphics cards, AMD has really improved with open-source drivers, while NVIDIA remains proprietary, so consider that when making your choice.

Answered By FileMoverChamp On

MTP support can vary, so it's hit-or-miss. Most desktop environments have MTP working out of the box, so you can plug in your phone and it should show up. However, I'd recommend checking out KDE Connect; it often offers a smoother experience for transferring files over WiFi instead of USB.

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