I've been a long-time Windows user, but I'm really fed up with the constant updates and the ads. I've heard so many positive things about Linux and I'm eager to make the change, but I'm not sure where to begin. Can anyone suggest a good starting distro? I've come across Ubuntu, Mint, and Pop OS, but I'd love to hear your takes on them. Also, how do I go about installing it? Do I need to erase my Windows setup completely, or is dual booting a viable option? Any tips would be hugely appreciated!
5 Answers
Check out the migration tips in various forums! There are lots of resources that can help you through the process. Just remember to confirm your ISO checksums after downloading – it's an important safety step!
If you have an old SSD, that's perfect for a Linux installation! Pop OS is a solid choice, and you can boot into a live session first to test it. If you're on older hardware, MX Linux is a good option too.
Before making the jump, it's worth checking if all your essential apps and games work on Linux. If not, look for alternatives. I'd recommend starting with something like Pop OS or Mint. You can easily download their ISO files and try out a virtual machine to see what you like best. The installation process is pretty user-friendly and shouldn't take you more than 20 minutes!
Great advice! I think I'll try setting up a VM first.
Mint is popular for a reason! A lot of users find it very approachable, especially if you’re transitioning from Windows.
Definitely consider how well your favorite programs will run on Linux before fully switching. As for Mint, I've heard good things about it. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also explore dual-boot options if you have enough disk space!
Yeah, the ads in Windows were the last straw for me too.
How does MX Linux perform better on older machines?