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    What Distro for a Complete Noob to Linux?

    Discussion in 'Linux Compatibility and Software' started by Seiya Snows, Jan 18, 2017.

  1. Seiya Snows

    Seiya Snows Notebook Enthusiast

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    My studies require Linux, not sure how to even get started and don't have much time left probably a few weeks.
     
    Seiya Snows, Jan 18, 2017
    #1
  2. Vasudev

    Vasudev Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    Try Linux Mint or Xubuntu or Ubuntu for starters and then you can move to CentOS, DEbian and others.
     
    Vasudev, Jan 19, 2017
    #2
  3. PrecisionBassed

    PrecisionBassed Notebook Enthusiast

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    In my opinion, Linux Mint is currently the most user-friendly distribution for new users.

    That said, if Linux is required for your studies, can you ask your professor or teaching assistant for advice, which is the best distro for your academic program?
     
    PrecisionBassed, Jan 20, 2017
    #3
  4. UNCNDL1

    UNCNDL1 Notebook Deity

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    Not sure how to start? Click on the bottom link in my signature for some great information
     
    UNCNDL1, Jan 21, 2017
    #4
  5. ALLurGroceries

    ALLurGroceries  Vegan Vermin Super Moderator

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    Try a bunch of distros and take no advice.

    The best way to be a n00b at linux is to come to your own conclusions.
     
    ALLurGroceries, Jan 22, 2017
    #5
  6. HiveMind

    HiveMind Notebook Enthusiast

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    Recommend Linux Mint.

    Ubuntu has historically been recommended, as has OpenSuse. Maybe Linux Lite or Zorin are worth a shot too.
     
    HiveMind, Feb 3, 2017
    #6
  7. Vasudev

    Vasudev Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    In my experience, I used Ubuntu but was dissatisfied with sluggish performance and moved to Xubuntu and I'm sticking to it for the past 5 years. Try a few distros as suggested by @ALLurGroceries and make yourself familiar with dialogs and stuffs like that.
     
    Vasudev, Feb 4, 2017
    #7
  8. Jarhead

    Jarhead 恋の♡アカサタナ

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    Have to also agree with the Ubunutu variants mentioned already. Currently using Xubuntu, though if you want something prettier, Mint is a good choice too.
     
    Jarhead, Feb 4, 2017
    #8
  9. Beemo

    Beemo BGA is totally TSK TSK!

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    Linux Mint
     
    Beemo, Feb 4, 2017
    #9
  10. laptopnoob678

    laptopnoob678 Notebook Consultant

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    I agree with Linux Mint
     
    laptopnoob678, Feb 4, 2017
    #10
  11. z31fanatic

    z31fanatic Notebook Consultant

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    Linux Mint with the Cinnamon desktop or Zorin OS GUIs are closest to Windows.
    Though I am not sure I would recommend Mint 18.1 Cinnamon because it's a disaster. Plagued by many bugs and freezes all the time. Mate is more stable.
     
    z31fanatic, Feb 4, 2017
    #11
  12. Primes

    Primes Notebook Deity

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    Be sure to check out Distrowatch. They have info on most distros and pictures and reviews if available.
     
    Primes, Feb 4, 2017
    #12
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  13. Shawn

    Shawn Crackpot Search Ninja and Options Whore

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    I like Zorin 12.1
     
    Shawn, Mar 12, 2017
    #13
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  14. Thiblizz

    Thiblizz Guest

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    Have some time to check what really is Linux, the Unix philosophy, shell basics, etc.
    Then make your own choice.

    I'm using Linux From Scratch, pretty fun and total control on what you really need.
     
    Thiblizz, Mar 26, 2017
    #14
    Vasudev likes this.