Thread: Have you tried Linux before?

Topic today is Linux guys.
I love it, been using it on and off for many years.

It seems like all the people who are hardcore windows/mac lovers either haven't tried linux, or simply haven't customized it properly.



I think that Linux is superior in functionality, visuals, variety, community, and customization. Not to mention free!
Lots more too but those are just the first that came to mind.

I mean sure, the first week after installing certain versions of linux you might have driver troubles etc but once everything settles it really doesnt get much better.

Also, think about it, if like 25% of the world was using linux then companies would be forced to focus more attention on compatibility.
Either way, in most cases there's something in your linux repository that will fix your compatibility.
Its just a matter of knowing what to search for.

Heres just some stats and videos to support this.
First of all, there are at least 10 jillion linux distributions out there lol.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of..._distributions
That is a VERY small list, compared to all the choices.
They all build off eachother. For example Ubuntu is based on Debian, Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu, and it goes on and on..
Theres tiny (Damn Small Linux = 50MB) or some that are as high as 16gb (comes with ENDLESS programs)
Most distros come with openoffice (update: libreoffice now) for FREE, and GIMP (like photoshop) for FREE.
Also much much more.
Many windows programs can be used with WINE including many games.

Linux is lightweight, and can be run on older hardware with some settings or the latest hardware.
Of course with higher end hardware you're able to do much more.
Here's just 1 example of how this guy chose to customize his desktop.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lawkc3jH3ws

If you have any questions post here or PM me!

I don't use it because I'm big on gaming and they aren't compatible with linux. Otherwise I'd love to try it.

i have tried it but it seems too complicated for me, also there i found that there are certain compatibility issues and it doesnt allow me to play the pc games that a windows OS would let me do easily.

i tried it, but quickly dropped it as i didn't have time and patience at the time that i tried it. lol

All valid reasons.
Compatibility is a major issue for most people.
The good thing is with all the innovative technology nowadays its always possible.
If WINE doesn't emulate the game the way you want it (usually works well)
Then you could use a virtualbox to install windows on. That way you can seamlessly switch between windows and linux while in linux.
So it's indeed possible but not without flaws.

That's why I choose to dual/triple boot. Also a major plus is that pretty much every distro can be booted directly from a USB thumb drive, no installation necessary!
Here's one program that sets up the drive for you in a few easy steps.
You can run it in windows virtually or boot it up.
Linux Live USB Creator : Powerful and easy Live USB Creator
It can even download the iso for you and set everything up in no time at all..
There are a couple more similar programs such as uNetBootIn.
Considering a 4gig flash drive can be had for mere change nowadays I think everyone should give it a go!

I might make some tutorials if enough people show interest.

the thread's name is a bit off, I'm editing it so it tells you the point of the thread.

I like how customizable linux is, but i've never tried it myself because it takes too much time and effort to figure everything out :/

I know that linux appeals mostly to power users but I wish it was more user friendly.

Also I think most of the popular distributions are generally heading in the wrong direction by making the interface similar to windows/mac. This seems helpful to new linux users, but imo it just makes people think "linux is nothing special.. looks just like windows in a different color.. except I can't find half of the settings that I want to change"

Linux needs to create a clear and intuitive interface that shows clear advantages over windows/mac.

I didn't use linux so far and o don't intend to use it from now on...now i have windows 7 ultimate and i must admit it satisfies my demands.

I can see why people who love to tinker with PCs and/or have a programming/IT degree would love to use it, and by all means I like being able to customise everything where possible but I think at some point you have to ask yourself whether your OS is working for you or you're working for your OS!