Linux Advocacy Wiki - User contributions [en-ca]

Main Page

2026-03-31T23:20:39Z

Tom G.: fix typo

'''Linux''' is safe, private, reliable, easy to use, and generally '''free'''. It is also practical, configurable, powerful, and legal. The personal operating system for personal computers.

To get an account on this Wiki please send an e-mail to linuxadvocacywiki@tomg.computer and request one.

== Plans and notes ==

Behind-the-scenes notes, plans or ideas for Linux advocacy

* [[Venues|Venues of Linux advocacy]]
* [[Areas|Areas of Linux advocacy]]
* [[Problems|Known problems with Linux advocacy]]
* [[Other sources|Other sources of Linux advocacy to draw upon]]
* [[Why advocate Linux|Why we advocate Linux]]
* [[Linux advocacy approach|Organised Linux advocacy approach]]
* [[Plans]], [[SpotChat linuxadvocacy IRC|our]] plans for Linux advocacy and with this site
* [[Notes and ideas]], #linuxadvocacy ideas list page
* [[Hash programs]] links for Windows hash programs, possibly for adding to a Verify download article
* [[Fallacies]], links to pages to do with teach logic and reason for arguing
* [[Needs work]], things that need work for advocacy of Linux
* [[Simplify Linux]], some work to simplify Linux for running and advocacy purposes
* [[Mac criticisms]], faults of Apple PCs

== Linux advocacy ==

Advocacy of Linux.

* [[Downsides of Windows]]
* [[Downsides of Mac]]
* [[Benefits of Linux]]
* [[Upsides of Linux]], a rambling list of upsides
* [[Things that are easier on Linux]]
* [[Things to do on Linux|Things you can do on Linux]], this list is too long to be put on this Web site; also watch this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2eJ8kLhKSk very good video] on the capabilities of bash from LinuxFest Northwest 2017
* [[Screenshots|Screenshots of Linux]]
* [[System requirements|System requirements of Linux]]
* A [[three line guide on how to use Linux]]
* [[Linux taglines]]
* [[Quotes]] about Linux gathered from normal people
* [[Linux advocacy links|Links to other Linux advocacy Web sites]]
* [[One line distribution summaries]], introductions of distributions to new Linux users
* [[Is Linux About Choice]], some people say Linux isn't about choice, but it definitely is!
* [[Windows mockery]], making fun of Microsoft's flagship product
* [[Slogans]], work on coming up with Linux slogans
* [[Youtube videos]], YouTube videos that are helpful

== Stories and articles of changing to Linux ==

* [[Stories]]: Stories hosted on our Web site of people changing to Linux
* [[Articles]]: Articles of people or companies changing to Linux

== Linux information ==

Information about '''Linux'''.

* [[FAQ]]
* [[Linux priorities|The priorities of Linux by its makers]]
* [[Linux supporters|Who are the supporters of Linux]]
* [[Communication applications that run on Linux]]
* [[Web browsers that run on Linux]]
* [[File sharing programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Arcade games that run on Linux]]
* [[Role-playing games that run on Linux]]
* [[Audio playing programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Audio programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Music software that runs on Linux]]

== Try Linux ==

Try '''Linux''' either in a virtual machine or a live boot session or install it.

* [[Download Linux]]
* [[Virtual machine]]
* [[Live session]]
* [[Install Linux]]
* [[Recommended distributions]] - if you have some time (about 50min) then watch [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msa5_oBO1XE this very good video] from LinuxFest Northwest 2017

== [[Linux help]] ==

Getting help for Linux.

== About us ==

We were a group of people found in #linuxadvocacy on [https://www.spotchat.org Spotchat IRC], originally from the #linuxmint-chat channel, [ircs://irc.spotchat.org/#linuxadvocacy click here to join if you have an IRC client].

== [[Credits]] ==

Legal credits for this website.

Main Page

2026-03-08T01:27:52Z

Tom G.: how to get an account

'''Linux''' is safe, private, reliable, easy to use, and generally '''free'''. It is also practical, configurable, powerful, and legal. The personal operating system for personal computers.

To get an account on this Wiki please and an e-mail to linuxadvocacywiki@tomg.computer and request one.

== Plans and notes ==

Behind-the-scenes notes, plans or ideas for Linux advocacy

* [[Venues|Venues of Linux advocacy]]
* [[Areas|Areas of Linux advocacy]]
* [[Problems|Known problems with Linux advocacy]]
* [[Other sources|Other sources of Linux advocacy to draw upon]]
* [[Why advocate Linux|Why we advocate Linux]]
* [[Linux advocacy approach|Organised Linux advocacy approach]]
* [[Plans]], [[SpotChat linuxadvocacy IRC|our]] plans for Linux advocacy and with this site
* [[Notes and ideas]], #linuxadvocacy ideas list page
* [[Hash programs]] links for Windows hash programs, possibly for adding to a Verify download article
* [[Fallacies]], links to pages to do with teach logic and reason for arguing
* [[Needs work]], things that need work for advocacy of Linux
* [[Simplify Linux]], some work to simplify Linux for running and advocacy purposes
* [[Mac criticisms]], faults of Apple PCs

== Linux advocacy ==

Advocacy of Linux.

* [[Downsides of Windows]]
* [[Downsides of Mac]]
* [[Benefits of Linux]]
* [[Upsides of Linux]], a rambling list of upsides
* [[Things that are easier on Linux]]
* [[Things to do on Linux|Things you can do on Linux]], this list is too long to be put on this Web site; also watch this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2eJ8kLhKSk very good video] on the capabilities of bash from LinuxFest Northwest 2017
* [[Screenshots|Screenshots of Linux]]
* [[System requirements|System requirements of Linux]]
* A [[three line guide on how to use Linux]]
* [[Linux taglines]]
* [[Quotes]] about Linux gathered from normal people
* [[Linux advocacy links|Links to other Linux advocacy Web sites]]
* [[One line distribution summaries]], introductions of distributions to new Linux users
* [[Is Linux About Choice]], some people say Linux isn't about choice, but it definitely is!
* [[Windows mockery]], making fun of Microsoft's flagship product
* [[Slogans]], work on coming up with Linux slogans
* [[Youtube videos]], YouTube videos that are helpful

== Stories and articles of changing to Linux ==

* [[Stories]]: Stories hosted on our Web site of people changing to Linux
* [[Articles]]: Articles of people or companies changing to Linux

== Linux information ==

Information about '''Linux'''.

* [[FAQ]]
* [[Linux priorities|The priorities of Linux by its makers]]
* [[Linux supporters|Who are the supporters of Linux]]
* [[Communication applications that run on Linux]]
* [[Web browsers that run on Linux]]
* [[File sharing programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Arcade games that run on Linux]]
* [[Role-playing games that run on Linux]]
* [[Audio playing programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Audio programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Music software that runs on Linux]]

== Try Linux ==

Try '''Linux''' either in a virtual machine or a live boot session or install it.

* [[Download Linux]]
* [[Virtual machine]]
* [[Live session]]
* [[Install Linux]]
* [[Recommended distributions]] - if you have some time (about 50min) then watch [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msa5_oBO1XE this very good video] from LinuxFest Northwest 2017

== [[Linux help]] ==

Getting help for Linux.

== About us ==

We were a group of people found in #linuxadvocacy on [https://www.spotchat.org Spotchat IRC], originally from the #linuxmint-chat channel, [ircs://irc.spotchat.org/#linuxadvocacy click here to join if you have an IRC client].

== [[Credits]] ==

Legal credits for this website.

Things that are easier on Linux

2026-02-11T17:43:57Z

Tom G.: improve

Things that are easier on Linux than on Mac or Windows

* 20 000 applications and more can be installed through the Software Manager or the package management system
* No major changes to the user interface, all of the major user interfaces made for Linux have been continued
* Updates can be done when you want them, on your schedule
* You can still use your computer when updates are occurring
* Updates cover almost all the programs you have installed, there's no need to upgrade different programs at random different times
* Updates include security fixes and program improvements
* Updates are smaller than on Windows
* Fewer crashes to interrupt what you're doing
* No anti-virus necessary, and no worries if it's updated or configured or working properly
* Spyware or malware removal not necessary
* Multiple desktops
* Support forums where people know what they're talking about
* Filename extensions are not hidden by default, and files are not executable by default, improving security by a lot
* Linux is many times safer (more secure) than Windows
* Linux runs on older and cheaper computers than Windows or Mac OS, so you can save a lot of money that way
* Linux is usually free

Things that are easier on Linux

2026-02-02T16:53:26Z

Tom G.: save money

Things that are easier on Linux than on Mac or Windows

* 20 000 applications and more can be installed through the Software Manager or the package management system
* No major changes to the user interface, all of the major user interfaces made for Linux have been continued
* Updates can be done when you want them, on your schedule
* You can still use your computer when updates are occurring
* Updates cover almost all the programs you have installed, there's no need to upgrade different programs at random different times
* Updates include security fixes and program improvements
* Updates are smaller than on Windows
* Fewer crashes to interrupt what you're doing
* No anti-virus necessary, and no worries if it's updated or configured or working properly
* Spyware or malware removal not necessary
* Multiple desktops
* Support forums where people know what they're talking about
* Filename extensions are not hidden by default, and files are not executable by default, improving security by a lot
* Generally Linux is a lot safer (more secure)
* Linux runs on older and cheaper computers than Windows or Mac OS X, so you can save a lot of money that way
* Linux is usually free

Things that are easier on Linux

2026-02-02T16:52:51Z

Tom G.: add fewer crashes

Things that are easier on Linux than on Mac or Windows

* 20 000 applications and more can be installed through the Software Manager or the package management system
* No major changes to the user interface, all of the major user interfaces made for Linux have been continued
* Updates can be done when you want them, on your schedule
* You can still use your computer when updates are occurring
* Updates cover almost all the programs you have installed, there's no need to upgrade different programs at random different times
* Updates include security fixes and program improvements
* Updates are smaller than on Windows
* Fewer crashes to interrupt what you're doing
* No anti-virus necessary, and no worries if it's updated or configured or working properly
* Spyware or malware removal not necessary
* Multiple desktops
* Support forums where people know what they're talking about
* Filename extensions are not hidden by default, and files are not executable by default, improving security by a lot
* Generally Linux is a lot safer (more secure)
* Linux runs on older and cheaper computers than Windows or Mac OS X
* Linux is usually free

Things that are easier on Linux

2026-01-25T02:59:26Z

Tom G.: no major user interface changes

Things that are easier on Linux than on Mac or Windows

* 20 000 applications and more can be installed through the Software Manager or the package management system
* No major changes to the user interface, all of the major user interfaces made for Linux have been continued
* Updates can be done when you want them, on your schedule
* You can still use your computer when updates are occurring
* Updates cover almost all the programs you have installed, there's no need to upgrade different programs at random different times
* Updates include security fixes and program improvements
* Updates are smaller than on Windows
* No anti-virus necessary, and no worries if it's updated or configured or working properly
* Spyware or malware removal not necessary
* Multiple desktops
* Support forums where people know what they're talking about
* Filename extensions are not hidden by default, and files are not executable by default, improving security by a lot
* Generally Linux is a lot safer (more secure)
* Linux runs on older and cheaper computers than Windows or Mac OS X
* Linux is usually free

Download Linux

2026-01-13T18:29:53Z

Tom G.: improve slightly

Instructions on how to download '''Linux''' in the form of an ISO image. These instructions are for Linux Mint mainline. It is perfectly okay and sometimes a good idea to use other versions of Linux, too.

The ISO image is about 3 GB and the download will take several minutes or possibly several hours, depending on the speed of your internet link. I don't recommend downloading it if you have dial-up internet.

== Go to the download page ==

Go to [https://www.linuxmint.com/ Linux Mint's official website]. Click the download link on the top right. Click where it says Linux Mint (version number) and Recommended. This will lead you to download the latest version of Linux Mint mainline.

== Choose an edition ==

The Download Linux Mint (version number) page offers 3 editions of Linux Mint mainline. Don't let this bother you, they are all good. Choose Cinnamon unless you have a very old and slow computer, in which case choose Xfce. Click the Download link next to the Cinnamon or Xfce edition.

== Click the download link ==

Don't worry about verifying the SHA256 sum and OpenPGP signature for now. Scroll down the download page until you see the list of mirrors. You can choose a mirror that's closer to your location, but it doesn't matter that much. Click the link to the right, the one that's the name of the mirror. Your download of the ISO image should start. If you get a security notice that the download connection is only HTTP, you can cancel it and proceed anyway.

There is also a link for a Bittorrent download, which you can feel free to use, but instructions for a Bittorrent download are not covered here.

== When it's done ==

That's it, you've done it. Now you can use the ISO image in a [[virtual machine]] or for a [[live session]] or for [[install Linux|installing Linux]].

== See also ==

* [[Virtual machine]]
* [[Live session]]
* [[Install Linux]]

Slogans

2026-01-01T06:13:46Z

Tom G.: improve peace line a bit

<glasscapt> Tom-: Feeling trapped by Windows 10?
<theproffesor> that sounds awful glasscapt why?
<glasscapt> theproffesor: used that Title as heading on flyer at Library and Post Office to get Windows users interested in Linux Mint, several years ago. Was suggested by a Windows 10 teacher... lol
<theproffesor> ah.. for Tom- yes that makes sense now. how about linux means not having a master after the stallman quote freedom means not having a master
<glasscapt> yes, that is also good and appropriate. unfortunately, most Windows users can't equate...
<theproffesor> true
<glasscapt> I constantly have conversations with people who don't even know about Linux and are totally confused when I explain that there are operating systems other than Windows. Although sometimes I get the response, "oh, you mean Chromebooks?".. ugh

Words that begin with P that help explain why I use Linux:
* Peace, Linux is safe and reliable and I need not worry about what I do on it
* Privacy, the operating system sends no data back, not even debugging telemetry, and most applications don't either
* Pleasure, it is a pleasure to use with its smoothness and speed and power
* Power, UNIX is the most powerful operating system I know, and Linux has its power
* Performance, Linux is fast and responsive, even on older computers
* Property, I own Linux, you own Linux, we all own Linux, and it makes our computers our property

Slogans

2026-01-01T06:13:24Z

Tom G.: p words

<glasscapt> Tom-: Feeling trapped by Windows 10?
<theproffesor> that sounds awful glasscapt why?
<glasscapt> theproffesor: used that Title as heading on flyer at Library and Post Office to get Windows users interested in Linux Mint, several years ago. Was suggested by a Windows 10 teacher... lol
<theproffesor> ah.. for Tom- yes that makes sense now. how about linux means not having a master after the stallman quote freedom means not having a master
<glasscapt> yes, that is also good and appropriate. unfortunately, most Windows users can't equate...
<theproffesor> true
<glasscapt> I constantly have conversations with people who don't even know about Linux and are totally confused when I explain that there are operating systems other than Windows. Although sometimes I get the response, "oh, you mean Chromebooks?".. ugh

Words that begin with P that help explain why I use Linux:
* Peace, Linux is safe and reliable
* Privacy, the operating system sends no data back, not even debugging telemetry, and most applications don't either
* Pleasure, it is a pleasure to use with its smoothness and speed and power
* Power, UNIX is the most powerful operating system I know, and Linux has its power
* Performance, Linux is fast and responsive, even on older computers
* Property, I own Linux, you own Linux, we all own Linux, and it makes our computers our property

Downsides of Windows

2025-12-20T04:00:47Z

Tom G.: /* Slow-downs */ rm superfluous page

Problems '''Windows''' has that '''Linux''' doesn't.

== Problems with Microsoft Windows ==

=== Reboots ===

Whether you have installed or reinstalled something, updated a driver, trying to get programs running again, trying to get your system to fast again after it slowed down a lot or are just trying to figure out a problem on Windows reboots are a waste of your time and effort.

On Linux reboots are only ever needed if the kernel of the operating system has had a security update, all other are updates applied without rebooting.

=== Crashes ===

You might have no idea what caused your Windows session to crash, but you still have to reboot your computer and restart all your programs.

Linux pretty much never crashes, even under severe loads.

=== Slow-downs ===

Windows might slow down because you have multiple programs running, or it's over-run with worms, viruses, spy-ware or other malware, or just because it's been running continuously too long.

Linux doesn't slow down no matter how many programs you have running and never gets infected with viruses, worms, spyware or other malware, and doesn't slow down no matter how long you leave it running.

=== Reinstallations ===

Windows users reinstall to fix problems on their systems, to get hardware or programs running, or to remove spyware or other malware, or to get back needed speed or harddisk space

Linux never requires reinstallations to fix problems (it generally doesn't have problems) and some editions (distributions) of Linux don't even need to be reinstalled to upgrade to the next version!

=== Resource requirements ===

=== Data loss or corruption ===

=== Change of interface ===

Microsoft will change the user interface of Windows to something you don't like, for example the Metro interface on Windows 8, and is not suitable for desktop computers.

Linux will always have a desktop. (Actually it has several. Good ones, too)

=== Malicously-intended software ===

Windows setups are often infected with various types of malware, viruses, worms, backdoors, trojan horses, spyware, ransomware and adware, and often many of the above at the same time. Over all there have been billions of malware infections on Windows computers.

There are over 35 000 variants of viruses for Windows. There are 37 for Linux (and most of them don't work due to security enhancements).

=== Break-ins ===

Linux is immune to break-ins on a client-configured machine

=== Registry problems ===

Windows has wasted harddisk space and slow-downs due to extra data stored in the registry, also system problems can reside there

Linux does not have a registry and so does not have these problems. (Linux uses text files for configuration most of the time.)

=== Cost ===

Windows is costly, especially if you have to pay for it twice to get a copy you can set up with the options you like.

Though there are editions of Linux you can pay for, Linux is free mainly, always has been, and always will be.

=== Extra costs ===

Windows users often buy firewalls, spyware removal tools, anti-virus scanners or system diagnosis or repair utilities, greatly adding to the original purchase price.

Linux has a firewall, it does not need spyware removal tools or virus scanners and comes with a lot of diagnostic and repair utilities for free.

=== Even more costs ===

Windows users often have to pay for repairs to their computer or "cleaned" because the system got slow or infected with viruses.

Linux basically never breaks down and does not need to be "cleaned" because it never gets infected with malware.

=== Safety ===

Windows gets broken into all the time

Linux is very safe and basically never gets broken into by malware or computer criminals

=== Extremely annoying Windows upgrade recommendation ===

Windows versions seem to have a Get Windows 10 update that annoyingly pops up that obnoxiously doesn't let a user send a clear "no" and sometimes outrageously downloads 6GB of data without permission

Linux will never have annoying pop-ups for operating system upgrades or for anything else, even if you run an old version of Linux

=== Abandonment ===

Microsoft abandons old versions of Windows, forcing you to buy a new computer (and a new copy of Windows) in order for you to run an operating system with
security updates.

Linux has free updates and will continue to be able to run on your old computer, probably no matter how old it gets.

== See also ==

* [[Benefits of Linux]]

Main Page

2025-12-19T15:54:17Z

Tom G.: improve grammar

'''Linux''' is safe, private, reliable, easy to use, and generally '''free'''. It is also practical, configurable, powerful, and legal. The personal operating system for personal computers.

== Plans and notes ==

Behind-the-scenes notes, plans or ideas for Linux advocacy

* [[Venues|Venues of Linux advocacy]]
* [[Areas|Areas of Linux advocacy]]
* [[Problems|Known problems with Linux advocacy]]
* [[Other sources|Other sources of Linux advocacy to draw upon]]
* [[Why advocate Linux|Why we advocate Linux]]
* [[Linux advocacy approach|Organised Linux advocacy approach]]
* [[Plans]], [[SpotChat linuxadvocacy IRC|our]] plans for Linux advocacy and with this site
* [[Notes and ideas]], #linuxadvocacy ideas list page
* [[Hash programs]] links for Windows hash programs, possibly for adding to a Verify download article
* [[Fallacies]], links to pages to do with teach logic and reason for arguing
* [[Needs work]], things that need work for advocacy of Linux
* [[Simplify Linux]], some work to simplify Linux for running and advocacy purposes
* [[Mac criticisms]], faults of Apple PCs

== Linux advocacy ==

Advocacy of Linux.

* [[Downsides of Windows]]
* [[Downsides of Mac]]
* [[Benefits of Linux]]
* [[Upsides of Linux]], a rambling list of upsides
* [[Things that are easier on Linux]]
* [[Things to do on Linux|Things you can do on Linux]], this list is too long to be put on this Web site; also watch this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2eJ8kLhKSk very good video] on the capabilities of bash from LinuxFest Northwest 2017
* [[Screenshots|Screenshots of Linux]]
* [[System requirements|System requirements of Linux]]
* A [[three line guide on how to use Linux]]
* [[Linux taglines]]
* [[Quotes]] about Linux gathered from normal people
* [[Linux advocacy links|Links to other Linux advocacy Web sites]]
* [[One line distribution summaries]], introductions of distributions to new Linux users
* [[Is Linux About Choice]], some people say Linux isn't about choice, but it definitely is!
* [[Windows mockery]], making fun of Microsoft's flagship product
* [[Slogans]], work on coming up with Linux slogans

== Stories and articles of changing to Linux ==

* [[Stories]]: Stories hosted on our Web site of people changing to Linux
* [[Articles]]: Articles of people or companies changing to Linux

== Linux information ==

Information about '''Linux'''.

* [[FAQ]]
* [[Linux priorities|The priorities of Linux by its makers]]
* [[Linux supporters|Who are the supporters of Linux]]
* [[Communication applications that run on Linux]]
* [[Web browsers that run on Linux]]
* [[File sharing programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Arcade games that run on Linux]]
* [[Role-playing games that run on Linux]]
* [[Audio playing programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Audio programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Music software that runs on Linux]]

== Try Linux ==

Try '''Linux''' either in a virtual machine or a live boot session or install it.

* [[Download Linux]]
* [[Virtual machine]]
* [[Live session]]
* [[Install Linux]]
* [[Recommended distributions]] - if you have some time (about 50min) then watch [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msa5_oBO1XE this very good video] from LinuxFest Northwest 2017

== [[Linux help]] ==

Getting help for Linux.

== About us ==

We were a group of people found in #linuxadvocacy on [https://www.spotchat.org Spotchat IRC], originally from the #linuxmint-chat channel, [ircs://irc.spotchat.org/#linuxadvocacy click here to join if you have an IRC client].

== [[Credits]] ==

Legal credits for this website.

Main Page

2025-12-19T15:53:43Z

Tom G.: fix spelling

'''Linux''' is safe, private, reliable, easy to use and generally '''free'''. Also practical, configurable, powerful, legal. The personal operating system for personal computers.

== Plans and notes ==

Behind-the-scenes notes, plans or ideas for Linux advocacy

* [[Venues|Venues of Linux advocacy]]
* [[Areas|Areas of Linux advocacy]]
* [[Problems|Known problems with Linux advocacy]]
* [[Other sources|Other sources of Linux advocacy to draw upon]]
* [[Why advocate Linux|Why we advocate Linux]]
* [[Linux advocacy approach|Organised Linux advocacy approach]]
* [[Plans]], [[SpotChat linuxadvocacy IRC|our]] plans for Linux advocacy and with this site
* [[Notes and ideas]], #linuxadvocacy ideas list page
* [[Hash programs]] links for Windows hash programs, possibly for adding to a Verify download article
* [[Fallacies]], links to pages to do with teach logic and reason for arguing
* [[Needs work]], things that need work for advocacy of Linux
* [[Simplify Linux]], some work to simplify Linux for running and advocacy purposes
* [[Mac criticisms]], faults of Apple PCs

== Linux advocacy ==

Advocacy of Linux.

* [[Downsides of Windows]]
* [[Downsides of Mac]]
* [[Benefits of Linux]]
* [[Upsides of Linux]], a rambling list of upsides
* [[Things that are easier on Linux]]
* [[Things to do on Linux|Things you can do on Linux]], this list is too long to be put on this Web site; also watch this [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2eJ8kLhKSk very good video] on the capabilities of bash from LinuxFest Northwest 2017
* [[Screenshots|Screenshots of Linux]]
* [[System requirements|System requirements of Linux]]
* A [[three line guide on how to use Linux]]
* [[Linux taglines]]
* [[Quotes]] about Linux gathered from normal people
* [[Linux advocacy links|Links to other Linux advocacy Web sites]]
* [[One line distribution summaries]], introductions of distributions to new Linux users
* [[Is Linux About Choice]], some people say Linux isn't about choice, but it definitely is!
* [[Windows mockery]], making fun of Microsoft's flagship product
* [[Slogans]], work on coming up with Linux slogans

== Stories and articles of changing to Linux ==

* [[Stories]]: Stories hosted on our Web site of people changing to Linux
* [[Articles]]: Articles of people or companies changing to Linux

== Linux information ==

Information about '''Linux'''.

* [[FAQ]]
* [[Linux priorities|The priorities of Linux by its makers]]
* [[Linux supporters|Who are the supporters of Linux]]
* [[Communication applications that run on Linux]]
* [[Web browsers that run on Linux]]
* [[File sharing programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Arcade games that run on Linux]]
* [[Role-playing games that run on Linux]]
* [[Audio playing programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Audio programs that run on Linux]]
* [[Music software that runs on Linux]]

== Try Linux ==

Try '''Linux''' either in a virtual machine or a live boot session or install it.

* [[Download Linux]]
* [[Virtual machine]]
* [[Live session]]
* [[Install Linux]]
* [[Recommended distributions]] - if you have some time (about 50min) then watch [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msa5_oBO1XE this very good video] from LinuxFest Northwest 2017

== [[Linux help]] ==

Getting help for Linux.

== About us ==

We were a group of people found in #linuxadvocacy on [https://www.spotchat.org Spotchat IRC], originally from the #linuxmint-chat channel, [ircs://irc.spotchat.org/#linuxadvocacy click here to join if you have an IRC client].

== [[Credits]] ==

Legal credits for this website.

Credits

2025-12-19T15:28:38Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.

Tux the Penguin logo originally by Larry Ewing <lewing@isc.tamu.edu> using [https://www.gimp.org/ The GIMP].

Linux help

2025-12-19T15:28:03Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

Getting help for '''Linux''', either from us or some web sites.

== Meet us on IRC ==

If you are using Linux Mint you are welcome to join us in our help IRC channel, [ircs://irc.SpotChat.org/#linuxmint-help #linuxmint-help on SpotChat].

If you are using Windows you can download HexChat for Windows [https://hexchat.github.io/downloads.html here].

If you join us on our IRC channel you can ask us for help in backing up your Windows or OS X computer in preparation for migration to Linux. We will also help you try Linux in a [[virtual machine]] or [[live session]], or when [[Install Linux|installing]].

== Other help links ==

* [[Windows-Linux terms]]
* [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software Linux software equivalent to Windows software], a list on another Web site

Recommended distributions

2025-12-19T15:27:29Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

These are '''Linux''' distributions [[SpotChat linuxadvocacy IRC|we]] recommend because they are meant for new users and we have experts to help you set them up and use them.

* [https://www.linuxmint.com/download.php Linux Mint] or [https://www.linuxmint.com/download_lmde.php Linux Mint Debian Edition 2]
* [https://www.debian.org/ Debian GNU/Linux]
* [https://getfedora.org/ Fedora Linux]
* [https://manjaro.github.io/ Manjaro Linux]
* [http://www.slackware.com/ Slackware Linux]

(Debian is not really meant for new users but it is so high quality that with our expert help anyone should be fine with being able to run it.)

We can probably help you with any [https://www.linuxmint.com/download_all.php main line Linux Mint] and [http://www.ubuntu.com/ Ubuntu] distributions, too, as
well as all other Linux distributions and Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X, if you are trying to set up Linux and use it.

== See also ==

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_Linux_distributions Comparison of Linux distributions on Wikipedia]
* [http://www.howtogeek.com/191207/10-of-the-most-popular-linux-distributions-compared/ 10 of the Most Popular Linux Distributions Compared from How-To Geek]

Install Linux

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Tom G.: copy from backup

Links to web pages and videos which give you step-by-step instructions on installing '''Linux''' on your computer.

* [https://linuxmint-installation-guide.readthedocs.io/en/latest/ Linux Mint Installation Guide], you probably need only this.

Windows lacks the sha256sum and gpg commands so there is no way to verify downloads on Windows, including Linux Mint downloads. I guess we should put Linux Mint on the Microsoft Store for secure downloads. (If Microsoft lets us.)

Live session

2025-12-19T15:26:30Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

How to boot '''Linux''' from USB memory device or DVD disc.

This should be divided into three different pages, one for creation of a USB, one for a disc, and one for starting a live session.

== Creation of a USB memory device, such as a stick or a card ==

=== On Windows 10/8/7/Vista/XP/2000/NT, etc ===

=== On Mac OS X ===

=== Linux ===

== Creation of an LMDE 2 DVD disc ==

=== On Windows 7/8/10 ===

=== On Windows Vista/XP/Me/2000/NT 4.0/NT 3.5 ===

=== On Mac OS X ===

=== On Linux ===

== Booting your live session ==

=== Booting from a USB mass storage device ===

Virtual machine

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Tom G.: copy from backup

Try '''Linux''' in a virtual machine. This allows you to explore and get a feel for Linux without installing it. You can learn Linux in this virtual machine until you feel comfortable with it and want to install it.

== Instructions on running Linux in a virtual machine ==

=== Download VirtualBox ===

[http://www.virtualbox.org/ VirtualBox] is [[virtual machine]] software that runs on Windows, Mac, Linux and other operating systems. VirtualBox is free software and a free download. A virtual machine like VirtualBox lets you run an operating system within an operating system. This will let you try Linux and learn about it without changing your system.
* [http://download.virtualbox.org/virtualbox/5.0.20/VirtualBox-5.0.20-106931-Win.exe Download here for Windows]
* [http://download.virtualbox.org/virtualbox/5.0.20/VirtualBox-5.0.20-106931-OSX.dmg Download here for OS X]

=== Download Linux ===

[[Download Linux]]. Instructions are there for Linux Mint Debian Edition 2 but you can use and distribution you want.

=== Install VirtualBox ===

=== Create a virtual machine ===

==== Step 1 ====

[[File:1 Blank VBox.png]]

On launching VirtualBox, this is the first screen.

Click "New" to start making a new virtual machine (VM).

==== Step 2 ====

[[File:2 Name, OS & Distro.png]]

The name doesn't have to be this specific, it's only a label of your choosing.

However, the Type and Version dropdown menus need to be set as shown.

==== Step 3 ====

[[File:3 RAM.png]]

Although Cinnamon will run on 512MB of RAM if necessary, at least 1GB is recommended.

As a virtual machine is just a "program," the RAM given to it will be returned when the VM is shut down.

==== Step 4 ====

[[File:4 VHD.png]]

Click "Next" to create a VHD. We'll set the actual size of it soon.

==== Step 5 ====

[[File:5 VHD Type.png]]

Accept the default of VDI; the other disk types aren't important if you're only going to use VirtualBox.

==== Step 6 ====

[[File:6 VHD Fixed or Dynamic.png‎]]

If you're just exploring the use of VirtualBox to try Mint, leave the type set to Dynamic.

==== Step 7 ====

[[File:7 VHD Size.png‎]]

VirtualBox's default setting of 8GB of disk space is too small now (earlier versions of Mint only needed that much).

For the 17.x versions of Mint, a minimum of 10GB is required, regardless of the desktop environment used (Cinnamon, Mate, XFCE).

==== Step 8 ====

[[File:8 Ready to Configure.png]]

We've just set the amount of hard drive space and RAM that Mint will have.

Now we'll set up some more "hardware" details, like video memory, networking connections, etc.

Note that some of the options we set here can't be changed later, unless the VM is properly shut down from its menu, like a real computer. In the main menu, (STEP XX) if a VM's state is shown as "Saved" then some changes can't be made. If the state is shown as "Powered Off" then all options can be changed.

==== Step 9 ====

[[File:9 Settings - General.png ‎]]

In the General option, there isn't much of interest to us, but explore the tabs (Advanced, Description & Encryption) to see what further options are available.

==== Step 10 ====

[[File:10 Settings - System.png ‎]]

The System settings can usually be left at their defaults.

One thing to note is the Acceleration tab; it should show the Paravirtualisation Interface is set to "Default" and that the checkboxes are on for Hardware Virtualisation (Enable VT-x/AMD-V and Enable Nested Paging).

If you don't see the VT-x and/or the AMD-V shown, you may need to go into your BIOS/EFI to enable virtualisation.

==== Step 11 ====

[[File:11 Settings - Choose Install Media.png]]

The only important setting here is to give your VM 128MB of Video Memory, by moving the slider all the way to the right.

Don't turn on any acceleration just yet, it often causes problems; this isn't a real computer with its own hardware and the drivers haven't been updated, so some performance loss is inevitable. If you later decide to install or dual-boot, it will perform much better.

Download Linux

2025-12-19T15:25:25Z

Tom G.: copy from backup and disclaimer

Instructions on how to download '''Linux'''. These instructions are for LMDE 2 "Betsy" Cinnamon 32 bit. It is perfectly ok and sometimes a good idea to use other versions of Linux, too. I'd like to replace all this with instructions for downloading the latest Linux Mint Cinnamon 64 bit.

== Go to the download page ==

=== Linux Mint Debian Edition 2 "Betsy" Cinnamon 32-bit ===

You may want to use the 32-bit edition of LMDE 2 if you have a really old computer or a netbook. In LMDE 2 you can install a new kernel to allow a 32 bit install to access greater than 4 GB RAM.

Go to the [https://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=185 LMDE 2 Cinnamon 32 bit download page].

=== Linux Mint Debian Edition 2 "Betsy" Cinnamon 64-bit ===

Go to the [https://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=186 LMDE 2 Cinnamon 64-bit download page]

== Choose a mirror ==

Find a mirror in your country or that is near you and follow that link. If you want to you can use the torrent link near the top of the page.

== Wait for downloading to finish ==

Wait until it finishes downloading. It's a 1.5 GB download so it may take approximately 1-2 hours for you.

== Verifying the download ==

You should skip this section unless you are an extremely advanced user and you care deeply about security. For what it's worth MD5 sum for the LMDE 2 Cinnamon 32-bit download is <tt>334c3f022eacdb24df81d3ad876ecbb9</tt> and the MD5 sum for the 64-bit download is <tt>5e5d617c6c6daed27cba9c1aca75c4ca</tt>. If you have GPG, which, unfortunately, neither Windows nor OS X comes with, you can verify the GPG signature with the <tt>sha256sum.txt</tt> and <tt>sha256sum.txt.gpg</tt> files which occur in the same directory as the LMDE 2 download on the mirrors.

== When it's done ==

That's it, you've done it. Now you can use the disc image (ISO) in a [[virtual machine]] or for a [[live session]] and [[install Linux|installing Linux]].

== See also ==

* [[Virtual machine]]
* [[Live session]]
* [[Install Linux]]

Download Linux

2025-12-19T15:24:44Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

Instructions on how to download '''Linux'''. These instructions are for LMDE 2 "Betsy" Cinnamon 32 bit. It is perfectly ok and sometimes a good idea to use other versions of Linux, too.

== Go to the download page ==

=== Linux Mint Debian Edition 2 "Betsy" Cinnamon 32-bit ===

You may want to use the 32-bit edition of LMDE 2 if you have a really old computer or a netbook. In LMDE 2 you can install a new kernel to allow a 32 bit install to access greater than 4 GB RAM.

Go to the [https://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=185 LMDE 2 Cinnamon 32 bit download page].

=== Linux Mint Debian Edition 2 "Betsy" Cinnamon 64-bit ===

Go to the [https://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=186 LMDE 2 Cinnamon 64-bit download page]

== Choose a mirror ==

Find a mirror in your country or that is near you and follow that link. If you want to you can use the torrent link near the top of the page.

== Wait for downloading to finish ==

Wait until it finishes downloading. It's a 1.5 GB download so it may take approximately 1-2 hours for you.

== Verifying the download ==

You should skip this section unless you are an extremely advanced user and you care deeply about security. For what it's worth MD5 sum for the LMDE 2 Cinnamon 32-bit download is <tt>334c3f022eacdb24df81d3ad876ecbb9</tt> and the MD5 sum for the 64-bit download is <tt>5e5d617c6c6daed27cba9c1aca75c4ca</tt>. If you have GPG, which, unfortunately, neither Windows nor OS X comes with, you can verify the GPG signature with the <tt>sha256sum.txt</tt> and <tt>sha256sum.txt.gpg</tt> files which occur in the same directory as the LMDE 2 download on the mirrors.

== When it's done ==

That's it, you've done it. Now you can use the disc image (ISO) in a [[virtual machine]] or for a [[live session]] and [[install Linux|installing Linux]].

== See also ==

* [[Virtual machine]]
* [[Live session]]
* [[Install Linux]]

Music software that runs on Linux

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Tom G.: copy from backup

This list of software with which you can create music on Linux, not play or process it.

* Canorus, musical score editor (not maintained last I checked)
* Gtick, metronome
* Hydrogen, drum machine/step sequencer
* LMMS, Linux Multimedia System, music production
* Milkytracker, "tracked" music editor
* Musescore, musical score editor
* Tuxguitar, multitrack guitar tablature editor and player

Audio programs that run on Linux

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Tom G.: copy from backup

This is a list of audio creation or manipulation programs that run on Linux. Audio playing programs and [[Music software that runs on Linux|music creation programs]] are not included here.

* ABCDE, A Better CD Encoder, CD ripper and encoder
* Ardour, digital audio workstation (DAW)
* Asunder, CD ripper and encoder
* Audacity, audio editor
* Calf Studio Gear, stand-alone effect rack
* Easytag, audio file tagger
* Exfalso, audio file tagger
* FL Studio, digital audio workstation (works flawlessly in Wine)
* Idjc, Internet DJ Console, Shoutcast/Icecast client
* Lame, mp3 encoding
* Mixxx, digital disc jockey interface
* Mp3splt and Mp3splt-GTK, mp3, ogg, FLAC file splitter
* Pavucontrol, volume controller for Pulseaudio
* Picard, Musicbrainz audio file tagger
* Puddle tag, audio file tagger
* Reaper, digital audio workstation (payware, specifically built to work well in Wine)
* Ripperx, CD ripper and encoder
* Sox, audio transformation
* Spek, acoustic spectrum analyser
* Streamripper, record online audio streams
* Tagtool, audio file tagger
* Xcfa, audio CD ripper and encoder in many formats
* Zynaddsubfx, realtime synthesiser

Audio playing programs that run on Linux

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Tom G.: copy from backup

These are programs to do with playing audio or music on Linux.

* Amarok, music player and library organiser
* Audacious, graphical audio player,
* Banshee, music player and library organiser
* Clementine, music player and library organiser
* Gmusicbrowser, music player and library organiser
* Gtkpod, manage songs and playlists on Apple Ipods
* Jajuke, music player and library organiser
* Juk, music player and library organiser
* Moc, console audio player
* Musique, music player and library organiser
* Quod Libet, music player and library organiser
* Radiotray, internet radio streaming player
* Spotify, spotify streaming music client (proprietary but free)

Role-playing games that run on Linux

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Tom G.: copy from backup

Extremely incomplete list.

* Beneath a Steel Sky (ScummVM)
* Drascula (ScummVM)
* Flight of the Amazon Queen (ScummVM)
* Lure of the Temptress (ScummVM)
* Planescape: Torment: Enhanced Edition (I don't know what engine it uses.)
* World of Warcraft (Wine, #1 rated compatibility on Wine list)

I should include everything else that runs on ScummVM but also everything else that runs natively, emulated in DOSBox, Wine, VirtualBox, or the emulation of classic computers and maybe of video game consoles if any of that's legal.

Arcade games that run on Linux

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Tom G.: copy from backup

Arcade games that run on '''Linux'''. There are hundreds of them. This list just covers some.

* Supertux and Supertux 2

File sharing programs that run on Linux

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* Soulseek
** Nicotine++
* Gnutella
** gtk-gnutella, Limewire
* Bittorrent
** Rtorrent, Utorrent, Deluge, Transmission, Ktorrent, biglybt, bitstormlite, ctorrent, kget, lftp, rtorrent, bittornado, bittorrent, podracer, Vuze (formerly Azure), Unworkable
* Edonkey/emule/overnet
** MLDonkey, KMLDonkey
* LBRY

Web browsers that run on Linux

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* Mozilla Firefox
* Google Chrome
* Brave
* Chromium
* Opera Browser
* Vivaldi
* Librewolf
* Pale Moon
* Microsoft Edge
* Netsurf
* Surf
* Qutebrowser
* Dillo
* NCSA Mosaic
* QQ Browser
* Yandex Browser
* Chimera
* (E)Links
* Links2
* W3M
* Lynx
* Amaya
* Arachne

Communication applications that run on Linux

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Tom G.: copy from backup

Communication applications and protocols that run on '''Linux'''.

This list may be incomplete.

* AIM
* Brosix
* Discord (requires Pulseaudio or Apulse for voice calls) (buggy)
* Facebook Messenger
* Gadu-Gadu
* Gale
* Google Talk
* ICQ
* IRC
* Jabber (XMPP)
* Jitsi
* Mattermost
* Mumble
* Novell Groupwise
* Rocket.Chat
* Sametime
* Signal
* Simple
* SIP (Linphone)
* Skype (very buggy)
* Slack
* Microsoft Teams
* Teamspeak
* Telegram
* Threema
* Viber
* Whatsapp
* Wire
* Zephyr
* Zoom (very buggy)
* Anything that works in Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome or any of the other [[Web browsers that run on Linux]]
* BSD Talk ;-)

Linux supporters

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Tom G.: copy from backup

Who makes and supports Linux?

The people who work on and maintain Linux come from several categories.

# independent enthusiast programmers ([http://www.catb.org/~esr/jargon/html/H/hacker.html hacker]s) were the first to work on Linux just because they wanted to use it on their home computers, including Linux's founder, [[Linus Torvalds]]
# expert, guru programmers from MIT and the hacker free software community there laid most of the foundation of Linux. This core of independent programmers is still the "kernel" (no pun intended) of Linux
# professionals who maintain servers for a living submit patches to Linux because it is the quickest and easiest way to keep their servers running (they may care very little about Linux, or even despised it)
# Linux companies, many Linux companies, totalling billions of dollars of worth
# volunteer programmers who contribute for many different reasons, such as political beliefs of communal sharing
# large corporations including Google, Dell, IBM, Facebook, Twitter, Oracle, HP and Samsung

Any two of these groups would probably be enough to keep Linux going, maybe even any one group.

== External links ==

* [http://www-03.ibm.com/ibm/history/ibm100/us/en/icons/linux/ IBM 100th anniversary page talking about their Linux support]
* [http://www.linuxfoundation.org/about/members Linux Foundation Members (286 companies!)]

Linux priorities

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Tom G.: copy from backup

The priorities of '''Linux''' by its makers. These are the priorities which Linux was made under and it still has for its design.

=== Stability ===

Linux meant not to crash or slow down, ever.

=== Speed ===

Linux is very fast, especially with [[window manager]] instead of a [[desktop environment]]. [[Terminal mode]] is extremely fast, actually it's more or less instantaneous.

=== Security ===

Linux is very secure. The kernel takes many efforts to prevent the proliferation of viruses, and the community and Linux [[distributions]] take a lot of steps for security to keep out malware and break-in attempts.

=== Privacy ===

Linux is focused on privacy. Linux is kept secure and Linux software never. Some software wants to send home telemetry or crash data (some distributions turn this off).

Under Linux you never have to give your name, e-mail address, phone number, home address or any information about yourself. You can participate in [[IRC]] or using an anonynmous nick name. You may have to submit an e-mail address if you wish to join a forum or a mailing list, but you can still use an anonymous user name.

When you do a system update on Linux the only information that is sent is what distribution and version you are using, and what [[architecture]] your computer is using (such as 32 or 64 bit PC).

=== Standards compliance ===

Standards have always been critically important for Linux, such as POSIX and other OS and Internet standards.

=== Flexibility ===

Linux lets you configure it how you like, as a client, as a server, as a workstation, and lets you do anything else with it you can think of.

Articles

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* [https://itnext.io/life-without-windows-is-a-breath-of-fresh-air-4b2c3d1c3035 James Beswick changes to Linux for all his computers]

Stories/Notacoder

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Tom G.: copy from backup

I've been a Windows user for most of my life, mostly, alright, completely because I was unaware of anything affordable other than Windows. I'm a dropout, so I've never made enough money to blow on a $3,000 Mac. I had just finished my daily article migration (reading random news pieces in the hopes of gaining new knowledge. Hell, it might come in handy in a trivia game.), when something inexplicable caused my computer to BSOD. For all you neophyte tech support types, no, I don't remember the error code. I turned it back on, and it seemed to work fine, until a few hours later it did the same thing. Now, if you use Windows, you know that it crashes a lot (at least individual applications, if not the entire OS), but never every few hours as in my case.

I contacted Microsoft tech support, and after much struggle in a) trying to get a human on the phone, and b) convincing them to give me a free copy of Windows, they told me in polite terms that yes, your computer is fucked, and no, we won't give you a copy of Windows to replace the broken one. (Strangely enough, this would later become a social-engineering ruse to illegitimately do what I was legitimately trying to do here: get a free copy of Windows. And whaddaya know, it succeeded >:) ).

As a broke recently-dropped-out ex-college student (to sate your curiosity, I dropped out due to the fact that I'm not, er, how do they put it, academically gifted.), I didn't have the $300 it would take to buy the new copy of Windows. I began looking around for other alternatives, and just about when I was ready to give up completely and resign myself to an internet-free life, I stumbled upon the Almighty Penguin-Mascotting, Cost-Free, Vegan Anarchist (only the second part is true in my case)-Friendly, Coming-In-Multiple-Formsing, Poor-People-Friendly, Microsoft-repelling,Apple-repelling, Privacy-Friendly operating system that I've come to love today, known in shorthand as Linux.

Pleased to know I had the opportunity to save $300 (which I later spent on an ounce of weed and fucking ramen noodles. It wasn't the cheap grass either, so the spending was around 80% weed and 20% food, eh.), I installed Ubuntu...and the rest is history.

--notacoder (NAC) July 27, 2018

If you want to find me on IRC, it's Spotchat (occasionally freenode, when i feel up to reading the list of channels. That shit takes longer to read than it takes to read every work of Shakespeare in one sit.) network, typically the #linux channel. My username will most likely be "notacoder".

If you want to chat me on Jabber/XMPP, first install OTR (otr or no deal), then add me at "notacoder@draugr.de".

I have an email, but it's hidden-service based and has something around 37% uptime. Which counts the times when all the page displays is "Welcome to Nginx."

Stories

2025-12-18T18:47:05Z

Tom G.: restore from backup

* [[Stories/Notacoder|Notacoder]]

Slogans

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Windows mockery

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Tom G.: copy from backup

It's called Windows because it breaks easily.

It's called Windows can everyone can see your stuff. (Quite often, actually.)

I will never trust a man named Gates who sells Windows.

Windows 95 is not a virus. A virus ''does'' something.

Egotistical Windows!

Is Linux About Choice

2025-12-18T18:12:42Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

Some people are saying that Linux is not about choice, like this [http://www.islinuxaboutchoice.com/ gamer-gate supported site]. But over here at Linux Advocacy we believe Linux is defined by choice.

Here's one essay that helps accentuate the point.

by Gary Newell
Updated July 02, 2018
48

There is one word that really defines Linux, and that word is choice.

Some people say that there is too much choice, especially when it comes to the number of distributions, but really the choice of which distribution to choose is just the beginning.

Choose a distro, choose a package manager, choose a browser, choose an email client, choose an audio player, video player, office package, chat client, video editor, image editor, choose a wallpaper, choose compositing effects, choose a toolbar, a panel, choose gadgets, widgets, choose a menu. Choose a dash, a bash, choose a forum to crash. Choose your future, choose Linux, choose life.

One line distribution summaries

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Tom G.: copy from backup

One line summaries for the top distributions of [[Linux]].

* Slackware, simple, minimal but you're in charge
* Debian, most stable and powerful, used as base of over 500 distributions
* Arch, advanced and powerful, for people who want to be educated or experts
* Fedora, has the latest updates, and is sponsored by major Linux company Red Hat
* Ubuntu, easy and highly popular distribution, ultimately based on Debian
* Linux Mint, most popular distribution, easiest for new users (based on Ubuntu)
* LMDE 2, Linux Mint Debian Edition 2, like Linux Mint only based on Debian instead of Ubuntu

Linux advocacy links

2025-12-18T18:10:28Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

Links to other websites advocating '''Linux'''.

* [http://www.li.org/ Linux International]
* [http://www.linuxfoundation.org/ The Linux Foundation]
* [http://www.whylinuxisbetter.net/ Why Linux Is Better]
* [http://provideyourown.com/2015/why-you-should-switch-to-linux/ Why You Should Switch to Linux]

Quotes

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<kaiseron> Linux is perfect. Basic and complex at the same time.

<sunrise> I'm tired of the computer. I just love listening to music. It was good to switch from Windows to Linux.
<sunrise> Linux is more fun.

Hudey123 January 14, 2020 at 12:50 am
19.3 Cinnamon is the best OS I’ve ever used. I don’t know what I did without it. I’m converted!

<Fudo> I keep finding more and more obscure but useful programs. Linux is like a giant playground of software and possibility

<Swingball> what got you into linux?

<rkm> Open Source, so Transparency, Stability, Security, and Community support.

Linux taglines

2025-12-18T18:08:27Z

Tom G.: copy from backup plus "it's free because it's good" line

<pre>
In article <1o487u...@access.digex.com> ste...@access.digex.com (stephen balbach) writes:
>
> Other than the fact Linux has a cool name, could someone explain why I
> should use Linux over BSD?

No. That's it. The cool name, that is. We worked very hard on
creating a name that would appeal to the majority of people, and it
certainly paid off: thousands of people are using linux just to be able
to say "OS/2? Hah. I've got Linux. What a cool name". 386BSD made the
mistake of putting a lot of numbers and weird abbreviations into the
name, and is scaring away a lot of people just because it sounds too
technical.
</pre>
[https://groups.google.com/forum/#!msg/comp.unix.pc-clone.32bit/_tl4WBguewE/x-00eYR0u4AJ Linux vs. BSD on comp.unix.pc-clone.32bit Google archive]
----
Linux: You'll give out before it does.
----
Virus-free, crash-free, worry-free, free-free.
----
Get the most out of your computer.
----
Linux, it's not good because it's free, it's free because it's good.

Three line guide on how to use Linux

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Here is a '''three line guide on how to use Linux'''.

* There are no limits on Linux
* It comes for free with Linux
* Linux does that for you

If you keep these three guidelines in mind you will understand and make use of Linux a lot easier.

System requirements

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(Linux Mint XFCE 32 bit)

x86 processor (Linux Mint 64-bit requires a 64-bit processor. Linux Mint 32-bit works on both 32-bit and 64-bit processors).

512 MB RAM (1GB recommended for a comfortable usage).

10 GB of disk space

DVD drive or USB port

Screenshots

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Things to do on Linux

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Things that are easier on Linux than on Mac or Windows

* 20 000 applications and more can be installed through the Software Manager or the package management system
* Updates can be done when you want them, on your schedule
* You can still use your computer when updates are occurring
* Updates cover almost all the programs you have installed, there's no need to upgrade different programs at random different times
* Updates include security fixes and program improvements
* Updates are smaller than on Windows
* No anti-virus necessary, and no worries if it's updated or configured properly or working correctly
* Spyware or malware removal not necessary
* Multiple desktops
* Support forums where people know what they're talking about
* Filename extensions are not hidden by default, and files are not executable by default, improving security by a lot
* Generally Linux is a lot safer (more secure)
* Linux runs on older and cheaper computers than Windows or Mac OS X
* Linux is usually free

Things that are easier on Linux

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Upsides of Linux

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* easy to use
* compatible with almost all file formats
* runs fast
* doesn't lose files/data
* looks good/aesthetically appealling
* compatible with most or all of the programs i want to run
* secure/safe from malware and criminals
* can handle multiple people logged in
* can run a lot of programs
* doesn't crash
* standards compliance (like SUSv2 and RFC compliance)
* doesn't need reinstalling
* inexpensive
* availability of tech support
* availability of cheap tech support
* legal
* compatibility with file formats
* overall cost of purchase
* philosophical free software
* ability to run on old or cheap computers
* private
* powerful
* peaceful
* pleasurable
* neat programs
* fun
* independence and counter-cultural status

Benefits of Linux

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Benefits, upsides and advantages to '''Linux'''.

=== Safe and secure ===

==== No malware ====

On Linux malware infections are almost unheard of. (In fact, if you hear of any, [[SpotChat linuxadvocacy IRC|tell us]].) That means no viruses, no worms,
no backdoors, no trojan horses, no spyware, no adware and no ransomware, ever. To compare this with Windows there have been billions of malware infections, and news reports say the damage costs in the range of dozens of billions of dollars.

On Linux you don't even need an antivirus, spyware removal tool or firewall. Linux is really that secure. This also means you'll never have to pay for an antivirus, spyware removal tool, or to have malware removed from your computer or "cleaned".

==== Safe downloads ====

Safe download area, strong encryption used for all packages, safe download area includes thousands or tens of thousands of useful packages.

=== Performance ===

* Runs extremely fast on new hardware
* Runs fast on old hardware
* Runs on really old hardware
* Can run in 2 GB of RAM or less
* Can run on a 30 GB SSD

=== Reliability ===

=== Manageability ===

Ease of administration, security

=== Flexibility ===

Downsides of Mac

2025-12-18T17:58:44Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

Downsides of an Apple Mac (PC) computer.

=== Poor quality operating system ===

==== Slowness ====

Mac OS X is extremely slow. You may not notice it because it keeps putting effects while it's doing something, but if you pay attention you'll notice there is a long gap before and after these effects and every day operations, such as opening applications, It is by far the slowest operating system I have ever used.

==== Insecurity ====

Not as secure as Linux. There have been reports of malware getting in Mac OS X.

Logged in user switching is not enabled by default and when you try to enable it it gives a warning to do with security if this is not a secure room. Linux allows fast user switching securely whether or not your computer can be accessed by others.

==== User interface ====

What is with having both a menu bar and a task bar? It's just not that great a UI.

3D desktop "cube" effect only works for changing users (which is considered to be insecure, see above). Linux Compiz Fusion, which admittedly is not available in most distributions, has many, many more and more impressive enhanced desktop effects.

==== Why does it even have these problems? ====

These shortcomings might night seem that great on their own, but considering that Linux is [[free software|free]], and they could have just made a copy of it to call Mac OS X (they still can), it really makes no sense that Mac OS X has any shortcomings compared to Linux at all.

=== Poor quality hardware build ===

=== Poor quality external hardware parts (peripherals) ===

=== Extremely high price ===

=== Bottom line ===

An Apple computer isn't even a good computer when you put '''Linux''' on it. They are too poorly built.

Downsides of Windows

2025-12-18T17:58:06Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

Problems '''Windows''' has that '''Linux''' doesn't.

== Problems with Microsoft Windows ==

=== Reboots ===

Whether you have installed or reinstalled something, updated a driver, trying to get programs running again, trying to get your system to fast again after it slowed down a lot or are just trying to figure out a problem on Windows reboots are a waste of your time and effort.

On Linux reboots are only ever needed if the kernel of the operating system has had a security update, all other are updates applied without rebooting.

=== Crashes ===

You might have no idea what caused your Windows session to crash, but you still have to reboot your computer and restart all your programs.

Linux pretty much never crashes, even under severe loads.

=== Slow-downs ===

Windows might slow down because you have multiple programs running, or it's over-run with worms, viruses, spy-ware or other malware, or just because it's been running continuously too long.

Linux doesn't slow down no matter how many programs you have running and never gets infected with viruses, worms, spyware or other malware, and doesn't slow down no matter how long you leave it running (running several months

=== Reinstallations ===

Windows users reinstall to fix problems on their systems, to get hardware or programs running, or to remove spyware or other malware, or to get back needed speed or harddisk space

Linux never requires reinstallations to fix problems (it generally doesn't have problems) and some editions (distributions) of Linux don't even need to be reinstalled to upgrade to the next version!

=== Resource requirements ===

=== Data loss or corruption ===

=== Change of interface ===

Microsoft will change the user interface of Windows to something you don't like, for example the Metro interface on Windows 8, and is not suitable for desktop computers.

Linux will always have a desktop. (Actually it has several. Good ones, too)

=== Malicously-intended software ===

Windows setups are often infected with various types of malware, viruses, worms, backdoors, trojan horses, spyware, ransomware and adware, and often many of the above at the same time. Over all there have been billions of malware infections on Windows computers.

There are over 35 000 variants of viruses for Windows. There are 37 for Linux (and most of them don't work due to security enhancements).

=== Break-ins ===

Linux is immune to break-ins on a client-configured machine

=== Registry problems ===

Windows has wasted harddisk space and slow-downs due to extra data stored in the registry, also system problems can reside there

Linux does not have a registry and so does not have these problems. (Linux uses text files for configuration most of the time.)

=== Cost ===

Windows is costly, especially if you have to pay for it twice to get a copy you can set up with the options you like.

Though there are editions of Linux you can pay for, Linux is free mainly, always has been, and always will be.

=== Extra costs ===

Windows users often buy firewalls, spyware removal tools, anti-virus scanners or system diagnosis or repair utilities, greatly adding to the original purchase price.

Linux has a firewall, it does not need spyware removal tools or virus scanners and comes with a lot of diagnostic and repair utilities for free.

=== Even more costs ===

Windows users often have to pay for repairs to their computer or "cleaned" because the system got slow or infected with viruses.

Linux basically never breaks down and does not need to be "cleaned" because it never gets infected with malware.

=== Safety ===

Windows gets broken into all the time

Linux is very safe and basically never gets broken into by malware or computer criminals

=== Extremely annoying Windows upgrade recommendation ===

Windows versions seem to have a Get Windows 10 update that annoyingly pops up that obnoxiously doesn't let a user send a clear "no" and sometimes outrageously downloads 6GB of data without permission

Linux will never have annoying pop-ups for operating system upgrades or for anything else, even if you run an old version of Linux

=== Abandonment ===

Microsoft abandons old versions of Windows, forcing you to buy a new computer (and a new copy of Windows) in order for you to run an operating system with
security updates.

Linux has free updates and will continue to be able to run on your old computer, probably no matter how old it gets.

== See also ==

* [[Benefits of Linux]]

Mac criticisms

2025-12-18T17:57:33Z

Tom G.: copy from backup

<pre>
(Apple) hardware itself is designed to fail. No airvents inside a MBP, they run insanely hot by design. So the boards get killed by thermal cycling. They also use unusually cheap and crappy solder paste with low conductivity that corrodes after a few years.
</pre>
Citation needed, but I do think Apple PC hardware is very poorly made.