If you are anything more than a very casual computer user, you've probably heard someone talking about Linux recently. Perhaps you're wondering exactly what Linux is and what all the fuss is about? Well, read on and we'll attempt to answer some of the questions you may have and hopefully dispel a few myths and misconceptions along the way.
Linux is an operating system much like Windows XP or Vista, Mac OSX, etc. An operating system is basically just a bunch of instructions that manage the software and hardware on your computer. Software refers to all of the applications that you use, such as word processing programs, web browsers, email clients, etc. Hardware is the physical parts of your computer such as the processor, memory, CD drives and the like.
Why would I want to try Linux? I would have to say that the main reason for using Linux is that it's free. Yes, FREE! Linux is an “open source” operating system. The definition of open source is software that has been developed by a community of folks and provided to the general public, free of cost. A second reason is that it runs very well on an older computer that may not be capable of running the newest version of Windows. Thirdly, there are literally tens of thousands of open source applications (software) that are available for download. Lastly, there is security. Linux was developed from the start with security in mind. The Linux operating system is not as susceptible as Windows is to a majority of the threats that are common on the internet today.
OK, so what's the catch? Well, there is a new user interface to learn. The Linux desktop doesn't “look” like a Windows desktop. Of course, a Vista desktop doesn't look like an XP desktop and a Mac desktop doesn't look like a Windows desktop, so there is a bit of a learning curve going from one operating system to another, regardless of which one you choose. Linux also has a reputation of being a “techie's” operating system, requiring a bit more knowledge to set up and use than the typical user may possess but this has been largely eliminated as of late. Another issue is that Linux may not work with the latest cutting edge hardware, although as the use of Linux becomes more widespread this is less of a problem that it has been in the past.
Who is Linux good for? This operating system works very well for those of us that simply need the basics: browsing the web, checking email, writing documents, working with spreadsheets, etc. Linux is a great choice for those Windows 98/2000/XP users whose old computers are running really slow and are considering upgrading but have to buy a new PC just to run Vista. It's also good for those power users that like to dig around and play “under the hood” so to speak. Linux will not work for those users that need to run Windows only software such as QuickBooks, or “gamers” who play games written exclusively for Windows.
Alright, so you've decided that you want to try Linux, now what? My suggestion is to download a copy from the internet and see how you like it. Linux comes in many varieties called “distributions” (or “distros”). There are several distros that I can recommend for a new user; these are listed at the end of this article. All of these are available in what is referred to as a “live” format, meaning that they can be run from a CD without actually having to install them on the hard drive of your computer. You simply download and burn the CD, put it in your CD player, and reboot your computer. (Keep in mind that they will run a bit slower than they would if they were actually installed). This allows you to get a feel for Linux and how it works, as well as testing whether a particular distribution can detect and correctly configure all of your hardware. If you decide that you like one of these, there is usually an “install to hard drive” option right on the desktop. You can even install Linux in parallel to Windows and choose which operating system to load when your computer boots up!
What if I have problems, where can I get help? There is a fantastic community of Linux users on the internet that are more than happy to help new users. Google is your friend. Most communities have a local Linux User's Group (LUG) that holds open meetings on a regular basis; new members are always welcome. These LUG's usually have occasional “Install Fests” where you can bring you computer and they will help you install Linux and answer any questions you may have. Check you local computer magazines for information on these type activities and groups. Again, Google is your friend.
I hope this article has answered some of your questions about Linux and maybe even made you consider giving it a try. Below is a list of resources you will find helpful if you decide to pursue this further.
Todd Hughes is a Network Security Analyst and long time Linux fan in the Upstate New York area. Send your Questions, comments or feedback to: thughes@fwpm.com.
Copyright Todd Hughes 2007. Printed by permission.
Resources:
Recommended Distributions:
http://www.pclinuxos.com/index.php?option=com_ionfiles&Itemid=28
http://www.xpresslinux.com/download.php
http://www.kubuntu.org/download.php
http://www.knopper.net/knoppix/index-en.html
http://www.mepis.org/mirrors
http://www.mandriva.com/en/download/free
Other Distributions:
How to “burn” a disk properly:
-using Windows XP
http://www.petri.co.il/how_to_write_iso_files_to_cd.htm
-using Nero
http://www.wizardskeep.org/mainhall/tutor/neroiso.html
-using Roxio
http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/burning_iso.html
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