For those who are not tech savvy and do not wish to download Linux Mint for free and create their own installation media, there's a very easy way to get started with a fresh, safe Linux install today. Go here: Store - Live DVDs and USB Sticks - Linux Mint Simply buy a CD/DVD, or if you prefer, a USB or SD card. Once it arrives, install and enjoy freedom. A disk costs less than $6.00 -compare that to any other operating system. And if you already know how to make your own bootable media, take the Linux challenge today.
Mint 18 - love it! There's one application that I use occasionally that is particular to Windows (Silverlight). There is no sub for it in Linux. So...Oracle VM runs Win 7 (and Silverlight) on top of Linux. Where there's a will .... there's relatives.
But, wait, there's ...less! No anti-virus subscription! No forced obsolescence and upgrade fees! All your old hardware just got brand new - no need to spend more $$$ so you can run the latest bloatware!
And people can purchase complete laptops and desktop computers with the latest Linux Mint distro pre-installed if they wish. And they can customize their system how they prefer before purchasing: Store - Computers and Laptops - Linux Mint
With all the Linux distributions out there how can you tell which one is the best for your needs? Everything I have seen so far seems pretty good.
If somebody doesn't know the answer to that question, then Linux Mint is the best because it's beginner friendly. This is why it is also chosen to be the default install for new computers. Ubuntu is pretty fantastic as well, even if it isn't quite as robust.
Here is a good article that demystifies some of the different distributions: Debian vs. Ubuntu vs. Linux Mint: Which Distribution Should You Use? To start with there are two main branches of the Linux family. One is the Debian branch and the other is the Fedora/Red Hat/openSUSE branch The Debian branch has the most diversity of distributions, but the main three are Debian (duh), Ubuntu, and Mint. Turns out Mint is based on Ubuntu which is based on Debian. Each one attempts to increase user friendliness over the one it's based on.
Some depends on individual likes and dislikes. Younger gamers that like to tinker could check out linux Peppermint. Both Mint and Ubuntu studio are straight forward and can be turned into pretty much do it all systems. Go to distrowatch.com and compare about 50 different Linux distros. Most can be downloaded and using something like ISO mount or startup disc creator you burn your chosen os along with a checksum to disc. No waiting on the mail. If I can do it anyone can. If you get stuck( I have) there a dozen Monkeys here that can un stick you.
I agree. However, I have heard complaints that "it's too complicated", thus the reason why I made this thread. We've already made threads on how simple it is to make your own ISO startup disks. Nobody, and I mean nobody can complain about spending $6.00 for an easy to install OS which arrives at your doorstep.
