1. What's a distribution?
Linux isn't offered as a single package such as Windows or MacOS. There are numerous variations on the basic OS introduced by different people for different reasons. While some can be hardware specific, others are tailored for specific usage, such as general desktops, webservers or multimedia workstations. Each of these different bundles are known as a 'distribution'.
2. How they become different?
The most evident difference between distributions is the number and type of pre-installed applications.
3. Which distribution is good for you?
Ubuntu is so far the most popular distro meant for beginners, but majority of big names including OpenSuse, Fedora and so on – also have their own strengths. Mandriva might be a preferred version if you are syncing with Windows Mobile.
4. Get an understanding of desktop environments
The well-known windowed desktop of any OS is merely a layer on top of the core code which makes it easier for the user to interact with his/her PC. As Linux is extremely modular, this desktop environment can be easily removed from the core OS, and you can opt for one from numerous available options.
5. Which is best for Windows' switchers?
Gnome and KDE are closer to Vista or OS X, and normally people find it easier to pick up Gnome. Others like XFCE or LXDE are meant for running low end systems quickly.
6. Live CDs
Once you've taken a decision about a particular distribution, you are required to download the installation file which is typically a .iso file) and burn it to CD or DVD. With several distributions, booting from that disc will provide you with an option to test a 'live version', which allows you to boot into a Linux desktop without making alteration in your current hard drive.
7. Look elsewhere
Always remember that the Live version has its own limitations. Majority of distributions are meant for maximum hardware compatibility. For example, your PC can roughly handle better desktop effects.
8. Putting Linux on your PC
It can be difficult to install an OS if you have not done it earlier. However, all well known distros have exceptional documentation for first timers.
9. Keep the Windows open
The simplest way to install a distro would be to clean your PC clean and start over. You may even want to keep using Windows to run various applications such as games that don't function well in Linux.
10. Getting to grips with the file system
It comes naturally to most users to navigate to the C: drive in Windows. And, displaying a file browser in Linux can also come as a shock as they might come across various vague files and folders with names such as "etc" and "opt" whose contents look the same. If you lack experience, you may find it tough and illogical. Get habitual gradually!
11. Stay in your Home
All crucial files, such as documents, music and video, are stored in a different partition known as the Home partition. Each username created by you will have its own password sheltered area within Home.
12. Understand the Root
Just like Windows, two types of user accounts - administrator and normal exist in Linux. The administrator is known as 'Root', while system files are protected for ordinary users to edit. If you ever fail to edit a document and save it, or copy a folder, it's most likely locked for Root access as well.
13. Become a superuser
Anyone can provisionally act as the Superuser, which allows them to perform various operations limited to root. This can be done by opening a terminal and initiating a command with the prefix "sudo" or "su", depending on your distribution.
14. Don't be afraid of the terminal
Terminal is one word that frightens the non-geeks, but a terminal is just a program that enables you to enter commands as text and not as mouse clicks.
15. Installing new programs
Dissimilar to Windows or OS X, majority of Linux distributions are equipped with a pre-installed graphics editor, office suite, messenger software and, and it’s easier to get a new program.
In main menu, you have a "package manager", typically Synaptic or Yum, which displays all the files installed on your PC.
16. Avoid updates at times
You are not required to update programs when the update manager cautions you. You’re always in control with Linux.
17. Fix display problems
If you're getting funny screen artefacts, such as text and cursors disappearing in OpenOffice or your mail client, it's a wise option to go to the manufacturers' website and see whether recent Linux drivers are available.
18. Manually installing drivers
Unlike Windows, you don’t need to install a device driver. Majority of hardware is taken care of right from the kernel. It can be a daunting task to manually install drivers in Linux, though, even though the process is well documented.
19. Recovery mode
Majority of distributions have a recovery mode available at the first menu screen to assist the users put problems related with an operating system in order that decline to boot. Ubuntu is a better choice in this regard, as it provides you with an option to reset the graphics system, often causing various problems.
20. Maintain notes
The Internet has really impressive Linux walkthroughs that can provide you with superpowers just by copying and pasting a few lines into a terminal. It's a wise option to track changes you've made in case you need to come back and fix it later.
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