The free Linux operating system is a good, long-lasting and, what’s more, cheap alternative to Windows, which allows you to avoid Microsoft’s growing hunger for data. Especially now that the end of Windows 10 is approaching, it is a good idea to switch to Linux instead of Windows 11. Especially since Microsoft sorts out functional hardware as it sees fit: Microsoft refuses to give Windows 11 blessing to many computers, even though they still run smoothly and fast enough.
If only it weren’t for the Linux installation! But don’t worry, it’s surprisingly easy to do these days and doesn’t require any knowledge of the command line. Although there are sometimes problems with hardware whose manufacturer doesn’t care about Linux, you can safely test for such problems before installing. The installation works smoothly on most devices, especially if they are not brand new computers.
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The diversity evaporated
Now there is not one Linux system, but countless Linux distributions that follow different approaches and have different advantages and disadvantages. The c’t Linux team has struggled for a long time about which Linux distribution we should recommend to you. It wasn’t about individual preferences, but rather about different perspectives on which distribution is most suitable for those switching.
Does an operating concept that is as similar as possible to that of Windows help? Or is it more confusing because it is similar but not quite the same? And why should Windows 95 define how we use computers for all eternity? Are there no concepts other than Start Menu and Taskbar?
Linux desktops are far ahead of the industry leader Windows in some areas, also because the desktop and many programs are developed hand in hand and therefore fit together well in terms of appearance and handling. And Linux distributions have long relied on some ideas that many Windows users sorely miss, such as uniform update management.
We recommend: Fedora Workstation shows users who like to experiment how beautiful and new Linux can be. Linux Mint appeals to pragmatic users who enjoy the tried and tested operating concepts. The popular Ubuntu Linux (test) now takes so many special paths that we have decided against recommending it. Some other distributions, which are also popular among the editorial team, pose unnecessarily large hurdles for those switching, despite all the improvements. The c’t Linux network plan offers a small impression of how diverse Linux distributions are.
Instructions in writing and pictures
In separate articles, we compare the strengths and weaknesses of Fedora Workstation and Linux Mint and explain how to install a Linux distribution. We will show you which general steps are necessary and what you need to pay attention to, no matter which Linux you install. We have also created video instructions – one for Linux Mint and one for Fedora Workstation – which explain step by step how to install Linux alongside Windows. With this general knowledge and the distribution-specific video instructions, potential pitfalls won’t cause you any problems.
But even the best operating system is only half the battle; you can only get started with the right applications. The good news: Well-stocked app stores already existed under Linux when the word app store was still unknown. Linux Mint and Fedora Workstation also come pre-installed with programs for everyday tasks. We have clearly grouped many other apps in a graphic according to their purpose and explain how best to install the newly discovered programs. Spoiler: This is also easier, clearer and more uniform under Linux than it ever was under Windows.
With these instructions and tips you have everything you need to start your new Linux life without any problems; regardless of Microsoft’s ideas about what hardware you must have, what data you should share and what a desktop should look like.
(ktn)