Thread: Mistakes Linux newbies make.

When I was new to Linux I had some great misconception about it.But working on it for quite some time (on virtual box) I found you are missing the true power of modern day computing if not using it.Some of the misconceptions I had about the linux are common among all the newbies.

1: Assuming they are using Windows
Although this might seem way too obvious, it's not. The average user has no idea there are even different operating systems to be had. In fact, most average users couldn't discern Windows XP from Vista from 7 (unless they are certain Windows 7 was "their idea"). Because of this, new users might believe that everything works (or doesn't work, as the case may be) as it does in Windows.Linux is complete different environment and has lot to offer than Windows.

2: Trying to make exe files work
Unless you have done your homework and installed WINE, double-clicking those .exe files simply won't do anything. And when that happens, you gonna be upset.There are many user who download an app made for Windows assuming that it will work for Linux. Make it clear to that Linux, like Windows, will only run applications made for that operating system. This, of course, is tossed out the window when WINE is involved. But new users won't be using WINE anyway.
Here is where u can find about wine more: http://searchenterpriselinux.techtar...126262,00.html

3: Choosing the wrong distribution
One of the biggest problems for users is choosing the wrong distribution. Imagine being a new user and selecting Gentoo or Slackware or Fedora! Yes those are all good distributions, but any of them would send a new user running away in fear.Don't just jump on board Ubuntu because everyone says you should. A lot of distributions out there are made specifically for new users. Give them all a close examination before making the choice.

4: Not finding software
Because so many new Linux users are migrating from Windows, they think software can be had from the same channels. Most of the time, this is not the case. The new user needs to become familiar with their package management tools right away - especially tools like Synaptic, Packagekit, and Ubuntu Software Center. Each of those tools is a mecca of software where users can most likely find all the applications they need.

5: Sending OpenOffice documents to Microsoft Office users in the default format
I have made this mistake several time before understanding. New Linux users are proud of the strides they have made but dumbfounded (and sometimes turned back to Windows) because the people they share files with can't read their formats. Remember, Microsoft products are not good at getting along with other operating systems and other applications. Make you are saving in file formats that are readable by the Microsoft equivalents.

6: Avoiding the command line
I can't figure it out why people completely avoid the command line as if it is the most complex tool.New users shouldn't shy away from the command line. Knowing the command line isn't essential anymore, but it will make them more capable users.And perhaps some of the command are so powerful like find,
it makes you wonder what u have missed in past.

7: Thinking the Windows directory hierarchy translates to Linux
There is no C:\ in Linux. Nor do you use the "\" character. Nor should you use spaces in filenames. These are common mistakes new users make. Trying to map out Windows to Linux, directory for directory, is impossible. You can get as far as C:\ = / and maybe Default User = ~/, but beyond that you're out of luck. Make sure you understand that everything starts at / and their most important directory is their home directory (aka ~/ or /home/USERNAME/).

8: Logging in as root
I really shouldn't have to say this. But just in case, be sure youDON'T LOG IN AS ROOT! But... just in case you must... DON'T LOG IN AS ROOT! Instead, open up a terminal window and either "su" to root or use "sudo". And just in case you didn't hear me the first time, DON'T LOG IN AS ROOT!.YOU CAN DO EVERYTHING WITHOUT LOGGING IN A ROOT.Just to avoid this mistake most of distros are disabling the root account by default though u can enable it.

9: Losing windows to the pager
The pager is one of the handiest features of the Linux desktops. But new users don't quite understand what the pager does, and they'll often "lose" their windows from the desktop. Where did it go? It was there a moment ago! I guess it crashed. No. More than likely, they moved it to another desktop. Another desktop? You see where this is going? Help the new user understand what the pager is and how useful it can be.
Here u can find more about it:http://www.ghacks.net/2009/03/03/get-to-know-linux-the-pager/



10: Ignoring security because it's Linux
Most of the time they have this misconception that linux doesn't catch virus.Well guys wakey-wakey,linux do have virus.It just the long list of distributions that make virus writers difficult to write viruses for all the distros.You can't ignore security just because you are using Linux. Security is crucial, regardless of the OS.And if u avoid logging in as ROOT user,u can avoid most of the ill-effects of viruses.
Here is more about it though it is pretty outdated.
http://www.spamlaws.com/first-linux-virus.html

Thanks.

I read this and i just started ubuntu and I havent made any of these mistakes except 10 but im convinced that I wont get many viruses.