this post was submitted on 16 Jul 2023
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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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Don't get me wrong. I love Linux and FOSS. I have been using and installing distros on my own since I was 12. Now that I'm working in tech-related positions, after the Reddit migration happened, etc. I recovered my interest in all the Linux environment. I use Ubuntu as my main operating system in my Desktop, but I always end up feeling very limited. There's always software I can't use properly (and not just Windows stuff), some stuff badly configured with weird error messages... last time I was not able to even use the apt command. Sometimes I lack time and energy for troubleshooting and sometimes I just fail at it.

I usually end up in need of redoing a fresh install until it breaks up again. Maybe Linux is not good for beginners working full time? Maybe we should do something like that Cisco course that teaches you the basic commands?

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[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 year ago

What I just said, on the whole, isn't exclusive to Linux and can be applied to Windows as well (maybe except the "go back to Windows" mantra, and possibly the RTFM culture of Linux—but then again, the general refrain of LMGTFY is common enough for one to argue that a similar complaint exists in Windows as well).

Having to fall back to the command-line, however, is generally a rare experience in Windows. I personally never have had any need to. However, that's mostly because I was never a power user in Windows, and I've never had any experience like having to fix messed-up partitions. Windows have its own set of problems too, like the registry system.

Whatever my complaints about Linux might be, it doesn't make Windows any better. I am still daily-driving Linux for a reason (or several).

The 90%, 10% and 1% thing I said at the end applies to Windows as well. It is a general rule of thumb I've mentioned to highlight that, the scary things oft-talked about Linux are a small percentage of what a user might encounter. And it's even less, probably non-existent, if you stick to the "straight and narrow."