this post was submitted on 04 Sep 2024
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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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Is Linux (dumb)user friendly yet? (lemmy.ca)
submitted 3 months ago* (last edited 3 months ago) by Noved@lemmy.ca to c/linux@lemmy.ml
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So I'm building a new computer before the end of the year and lemmy is obviously pushing me towards Linux.

I am not computer savvy, I have a family member that will help me set up my PC, but I do not want to be calling/messaging them every day when I want to open a program.

Basically my question comes down to: can I operate a Linux PC these days without needing to troubleshoot or type code.

I use my computer about once a week for a few hours I would say, so any time spent troubleshooting is time wasted.

Thanks!

EDIT: since a lot of people are asking what programs I typically use, I'll just list my most used programs.

Word, Excel, ect(I'm fine with alternatives)

Spotify

Gimp (would have been a make or break, so I'm glad it's supported)

Brave browser (browser is a browser)

Steam

Discord

I would say that while I could figure out how the kernels work, I'm at a point with computers these days where I don't have the time. My priorities fall with a seamless daily experience. If I have the time to figure something out I can, but ideally my day to day usage being unbotherd is what I'm after.

A lot of the comments so far have been helpful! I'm definitely going to give Linux a fair shot with my new build, probably start with Mint.

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[–] orcrist@lemm.ee 7 points 3 months ago (1 children)

If you really are so hopeless with computers that you can't figure out a modern popular Linux distribution, then you should not build your own computer, because that's much more complicated.

[–] Kbobabob@lemmy.world 9 points 3 months ago* (last edited 3 months ago) (1 children)

I think the issue is trying to figure it out. I can build computers all day long but just about anything I want to do in Linux requires a browser and a search engine.

You're also comparing hardware vs. software for your thoughtful dig of the OP, which are very different.

[–] Rekorse@sh.itjust.works 0 points 3 months ago (1 children)

They are comparing the level of knowledge required to do them.

[–] desentizised@lemm.ee 4 points 3 months ago (1 children)

Which are about as related as the knowledge required to mount drywall and the knowledge required to run a ham radio station. You tell me which is more complicated but either way there are most certainly radio amateurs out there that don't know the first thing about handywork and handymen that could barely find the on-off switch on a broadcast-rig.

[–] Rekorse@sh.itjust.works 1 points 3 months ago (1 children)

Okay but if I told you Linux was as easy as watching a YouTube video showing how to hang dry wall, then you might rightfully say "this isnt so bad".

[–] desentizised@lemm.ee 1 points 3 months ago (1 children)

Absolutely. Anything can be learned and unless things build on top of each other you can't really compare difficulties.

[–] Rekorse@sh.itjust.works 1 points 3 months ago (1 children)

There are linux distros with installers that are windows style, and have a display manager that mimics it as well. Would that count as building on top of existing knowledge? I actually never used something like Mint but if people are putting it on their grandparents computers without issue there gotta be something there.

[–] desentizised@lemm.ee 1 points 3 months ago (1 children)

Point being that OP must've installed Windows before and therefore should be able to build a computer hardware-wise?

[–] Rekorse@sh.itjust.works 0 points 3 months ago

Yes installing windows is about as difficult as building a pc. Building computers is not hard unless you refuse to use a part picker site or a prebuilt parts list. Even then, the dude at micro center will pick your parts for you.

Building a pc is just pushing parts in and plugging cables in, not rocket science. Video guides are a thing.