Why Do I Find Linux So Appealing And So Difficult To Migrate To?
Q. I’ve had a partition with a linux distro on about every computer I’ve owned. I will install the OS, do the updates, run into some compatibility issues and not bother any longer. How can I solve this?
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Bottom line: get over thinking that Linux is an Operating System like Windoze or Mac. Linux is a kernel that runs UNIX programs. Who runs UNIX? People who are willing to invest the time and the energy into resolving compatibility issues. Some of them are geeks. Some of them are not. But if you want to migrate over to Linux you have to assume responsibility for configuring your own computer — something even Micro$oft only pretends to take responsibility for.
I agree. One of the biggest problems with linux is a package manager that works, and is a key to selecting distro.
I have found that some package managers in some distros do not do a good job of taking care of dependencies and conflicts when installing programs and updates.
I have found that debian, gentoo and slackware have about the best package managers from that point of view. I have found that it is only by trying the various distros that I could find one that I think is stable.
Of course in order to have a package manager that is stable you have to practice “safe computing”, i.e. avoiding alpha and beta releases of programs, knowing what you are doing if you try to compile a program, and basically stick to the repositories of the distro.
I really like synaptic/aptitude/apt-get for a package manager and used debian for a few years, but wanted a distro with a little faster update. I now use Kubuntu, a derivative of debian and find it very stable.
Good luck
Linux is now in a position of offering a viable alternative to proprietary platforms and more than capable of offering a full desktop experience.
Take a look at Linux Mint 6 (Main Edition) its easy to install easy to use and has much of the software you are likely to need preinstalled.
Install it or RUN IT LIVE !
Linux Mint 6 Release noteshttp://www.linuxmint.com/rel_felicia.php
Linux Mint 6 Downloadhttp://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=…
Linux Mint 6 installation tutorial (if you like it)http://www.howtoforge.com/the-perfect-de…
You download the ISO. image of Linux Mint 6 then you need to create a Bootable CD from the ISO. This can easily be done using Nero Burning ROM or similar software. Linux Mint 6 can also be run straight from the LiveCD you have created without touching your Hard Drive.
Screenshot of my custom LiveDVD of Mint 6 running Beryl 0.2.1http://s266.photobucket.com/albums/ii256…
Remember you can RUN IT LIVE !
LUg.
You solve it by getting Linux-friendly hardware.
So stick with Windows or Mac for now, whatever you’ve got.
Then when you’re in a position to buy a new computer, get one with Linux preinstalled. Or build one with Linux-friendly components.