I'm 59 years old and I've really enjoyed my experiences with Linux, but I've found myself frustrated with the terminal commands and updates in the past. Having a background in Design, I've dabbled in various Linux Distros, but I just want a straightforward experience this time around. I have two notebooks and I'm looking for a Linux Distro that allows for easy app installations, automatic updates without requiring terminal commands or coding knowledge, and generally a user-friendly interface. I'd also like to avoid the usual restrictions and issues that come with things like Windows. Any recommendations for a Distro that fits this description?
5 Answers
Just a heads-up—while some things are easy in Linux, occasionally you might dip into the terminal. However, it's mostly straightforward and manageable. Just keep learning a little bit, and you’ll get the hang of it!
For a really low-tech experience similar to Windows, Linux Mint is often recommended. It's quite powerful and doesn't force you into using the terminal much, so you should definitely give it a shot!
You might want to stick to the official repositories for software installation. It makes things easier and safer, compared to downloading software from random sites. Most distros come with a user-friendly software center to help with this. While it's nice to have click-and-install capabilities, you'll generally need to accept minimal terminal use for some installs. But trust me, it's not as daunting as it sounds!
If you're looking for a user-friendly experience, I'd recommend mainstream distros like Ubuntu, Fedora, or Linux Mint. They come with software managers that let you install apps and update your OS with just a couple of clicks. Personally, I prefer Fedora, but Mint is often praised for its Windows-like interface which might be easier for you. As for the terminal, while it can be useful, you might not need it much with these options. If you do, consider trying the fish shell; it has great autocomplete features!
That's a great recommendation! I've found Mint particularly beginner-friendly, with a familiar setup for people coming from Windows.
I've recently started using Zorin OS, and I love its stylish design and intuitiveness. It’s designed to be user-friendly, especially for those transitioning from Windows. So if ease of use is a top priority, it might be just what you're looking for!
Good point! And many packages can be easily managed with tools like Synaptic or Software Center, so you won't have to dive into the terminal often.