Switching To Linux OS From Microsoft Windows? As home computers have become a standard technology, many users are exploring their options. This includes the hardware they use whether it is a laptop, desktop, tablet or even smartphone. However, many users are considering their options for software also.
One of these options is switching from a Microsoft Windows based OS to Linux Operating System . As more Linux OS distributions offer a Microsoft Windows look and feel, more users are seeing Linux Operating System as an alternative.
If you are thinking about switching to Linux OS, there are a few things you need to know first. Also read about Use apt-get behind proxy server (Ubuntu/Debian).
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Few Things To Know First Before Switching To Linux OS
Linux OS is not Microsoft Windows
Though there are some Linux OS distributions, such as Ubuntu and Fedora, which offer the feel of Microsoft Windows, Linux OS is not Microsoft Windows. The menus, use of icons, desktop themes and other similarities are included in many distributions; however, Linux Operating System is more stable and free. Those are the two major differences between Microsoft Windows and Linux Operating System.
Another difference is the support involved. With Microsoft Windows dominating the PC world, their support can be found through the many applications you can install as well as the “pay” support that Microsoft offers. Linux OS support is usually found within forums and blogs and is offered by the Linux Operating System community of users rather than any specific company.
Less Viruses, More Computing
One of the major advantages of choosing Linux Operating System is the lack of viruses, adware, and malware that targets Linux operating systems. Since a majority of online users are Microsoft Windows users, those users are targeted more often.
The point of viruses and malicious software is to reach as many computers as possible; therefore, the communities of Linux OS users are safer as they are a smaller community.
Drivers May Not Work
For the same reason that viruses don’t infect Linux OS run PC’s, drivers used for hardware are also programmed for Microsoft Windows. This means the peripheral devices you use on your Microsoft Windows machine may require additional work to be compatible on your Linux Operating System.
Many important devices will have a Linux driver as well. Other devices such as iPods won’t be compatible. If you are planning on using Linux OS and still want to use all of your PC compatible gadgets, you will need to dual-boot both Linux OS and Microsoft Windows or keep a second Microsoft Windows based PC handy.
Games May Not Play
PC gaming is a multi-billion dollar industry. If you are a gamer, you may find your mainstream games won’t play on Linux OS. This is simply because they are not meant to. Games are written to run on the Microsoft Windows OS and must stay that way.
There are games that you can play on Linux Operating System, some that even only run on Linux OS. Many of the major online games however will not play on Linux. So keep this in mind before you decide to run Linux OS only.
Summary
There are many options available to those who want to give Linux Operating System a try. However, without planning you may find it difficult to enjoy your PC the way you always have. It is suggested to dual-boot.
Linux and Microsoft Windows Operating System rather than getting rid of your Microsoft Windows partition completely. The other option is a second computer to fall back on if you find you need Microsoft Windows for the devices or games that you enjoy. Hence, you are ready to switch over to Linux Operating System.
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