this post was submitted on 25 Apr 2025
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Linux

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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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We all have opinions on how to procedurally get someone started using Linux. To mixed effect. I wonder if we could be more successful if we paid closer attention to the machine between the seat and the keyboard. What mindsets can we instill in people that would increase the likelihood they stick with it? How would we go about instilling said mindsets?

I have my own opinions I will share later. I don't want to direct the conversation.

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[–] flubba86@lemmy.world 7 points 1 day ago

These are some rules of mindset I've given to others in the past when trying linux-based operating systems.

  1. Don't try to apply the same computing and productivity patterns you've learned from Windows. Don't try to force Windows concepts onto Linux OS, you will confuse yourself and get frustrated.
  2. If something doesn't work the way you expect it to, doesn't mean it's broken.
  3. Just because something doesn't behave the same as in Windows, doesn't mean it's worse. It's probably designed that way for a good reason.
  4. If your daily work routine or gaming life revolves around the use programs developed specifically for the Windows platform, you're gonna need to invest time and effort to try to recreate that in Linux. It may not even be possible to fully replicate it. And that's not the fault of Linux, it's not designed to be a drop-in Windows replacement.
  5. Everyone has their own taste and preferences. Just like some people prefer driving a manual car and some prefer auto. If you try Linux and hate it, that's okay, that doesn't make you bad or wrong, but keep in mind that those who do prefer Linux are not weird or daft or wrong either.