Topic: Operating Systems

Ten lessons Linux rookies need to learn

Summary: A few basic facts could be all that stands between a novice user enjoying the Linux operating system and a very bumpy ride, says Jack Wallen

By Jack Wallen | December 4, 2011 -- 12:00 GMT (04:00 PST)

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Linux Mint desktop

I recently told an event audience that I could ensure a smooth migration to Linux simply by providing new users with a machine running the operating system and a few basic facts. The faces of some members of the audience betrayed their scepticism. So I thought I'd set out here the 10 pieces of information that I believe can help ensure a successful transition.

1. It's just an operating system
Most of the computer tasks people perform today are done through a web browser — unlike two years ago. That change makes the operating system almost irrelevant. As long as it can run a browser, it just operates in the background, working away without being noticed. Of course, that's the state of affairs that should prevail anyway, because an operating system is nothing more than a layer between user applications and hardware.

Image credit: JA Watson

Topic: Operating Systems

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I support a bunch of Windows users at work, and a mix of Linux and Windows users outside of work, mostly as favours. My observations are :

"Most of the computer tasks people perform today are done through a web browser"
In my experience, this is not true. Most of the "tasks" with problems that I am ask to sort out are games, next comes office suite and finally web browser.

"There is no C"
Most Windows users I speak to have no idea what "C" means. They know "My Documents" at home, or the "N drive" (or other random letter) at work.

"you do need to prepare them for any unfamiliar machine behaviour that you think they are likely to encounter"
You mean like a machine that doesn't randomly crash? :) I am work on my XP box which constantly forgets the mouse has buttons that click. It's an o/s fault which cropped up after some update. I'll have to re-install one day.

"Installing software is a different process"
Not really, they still get me to do it for them.

"It's free - it can't be any good".
Most home users think that all software is free; they just download whatever they want from Pirate Bay and ask me to sort it out when it doesn't work. I quick re-install from the OEM disk is my answer to this.

openhgs
5 December, 2011 09:53

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Excellent article and I agree with you on these points that you bring up. What I've found is that those that have been using Windows for many years, expect GNU/Linux to be Windows. GNU/Linux is not Windows, just as you mention. Most users that are migrated from Windows to GNU/Linux can click on menus and open applications just the same, without any problems. I especially prefer the Gnome 2.x desktop for new users and have found they can easily find what they need. But finally one of the largest bonuses for me, is the support after they start using GNU/Linux. First, I don't get those calls anymore about malware, system corruption, and all of the failures I did when they had Windows. And that's good for both of us. Also, when there is a feature or program that is not installed, they are able to install it without calling me just as you mention. In the case that they want me to install it for them, I can ssh in and do it while they work, or I remote in with VNC and do it that way, and give them a quick demo. I use Fedora which all of the software is usually included within the distribution which makes adding software super easy. This also prevents the users from installing malware which used to happen on Windows quite frequently.

Overall, if the user can move to GNU/Linux, it is well worth the effort to get there.

Chris_Clay
5 December, 2011 20:29

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