Hey everyone! I'm a total newbie considering switching to Linux. I've been thinking about it for a while but haven't taken the plunge yet, especially after seeing that PewDiePie video. I'm not super tech-savvy, but I'm eager to learn. Since I primarily game and am kind of broke, I'm also curious about how piracy works on Linux. I'm really drawn to the customization aspect of it. Here are my questions:
1) I need to dual boot with Windows 11 for MS Office and schoolwork. What should I watch out for? I've heard there can be driver issues.
2) What's the antivirus situation like on Linux, especially since I pirate a lot of media?
3) Where's the best place to learn about my chosen distro? Should I look at official docs, subreddits, etc.?
4) Will Linux let me delete anything, unlike Windows?
5) How do I set up a dual-boot without messing up my Windows installation?
6) Will Secure Boot, BitLocker, or Fast Startup cause any issues when I dual-boot?
7) How do I manage drivers on Linux, particularly for gaming?
8) Can Windows updates mess with the bootloader or affect my Linux setup?
9) If I run into problems, how tough is it to fix without reinstalling everything?
10) What are the downsides of using Linux?
I'm also interested in switching to Arch after a year, so any additional tips would be appreciated! Thanks!
4 Answers
Definitely take time to figure out which distro suits you. There are many good ones out there like Mint, which is user-friendly for new users. You can find tons of info in official forums or subreddits related to your chosen distro. And yes, Linux lets you completely wipe anything you want, but just remember that with great power comes great responsibility! Be careful what you delete!
For setting up your dual-boot, just make a new partition through Windows disk management, and then install Linux there. Usually, around 50-100 GB is a good starting point.
Exactly! Just backup your data first. Linux gives you a lot of freedom, but it can bite back if you're not careful.
The main downsides of Linux? You'll likely miss out on apps like MS Office and Adobe unless you use alternatives, and some Windows games don’t have great compatibility yet, especially if they involve in-game cheats. Just be ready to explore alternatives or use Steam with Proton for your gaming needs. But the customization and control you get with Linux is totally worth it!
Sounds like I’ll have to do some research on alternatives for Office. Thanks for that!
Totally! Plus, you'll probably pick up a lot of new skills along the way with Linux!
When it comes to dual booting, expect that BitLocker could mess up your setup. Make sure to turn it off before you install Linux, then you can turn it back on after. If updates break GRUB (the bootloader), you'll just need to reinstall it. As a newcomer, I seriously recommend not starting with Arch; it’s pretty advanced for beginners.
Also, don't stress too much about antivirus, since Linux is less prone to viruses that affect Windows. ClamAV is there if you want to scan, but it’s usually not a major concern.
Thanks for the heads-up about BitLocker and GRUB! I’ll definitely avoid Arch for now.
Yeah, I totally agree with starting off with something easier. Mint or Ubuntu would be way better as a first distro!
Managing drivers in Linux can vary by distro. For gaming, Ubuntu usually has tools that help with driver installation, but you may have to install them manually sometimes. Be prepared that some games might not run as smoothly on Linux as they do on Windows, especially those using anti-cheat systems.
In regard to Windows updates, they sometimes can interfere, but having a USB installer on hand to fix GRUB helps a lot.
I hear ya! Also, if you ever mess something up, it’s usually not that difficult to fix without a full reinstall. Just do your research!
Thanks for the tips! I have a lot to learn, but it sounds manageable.
Good to know I can just shrink a partition! I was worried about formatting everything.