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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Is Linux (dumb)user friendly yet? (lemmy.ca)

submitted 2 months ago* (last edited 2 months ago) by Noved@lemmy.ca to c/linux@lemmy.ml

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So I'm building a new computer before the end of the year and lemmy is obviously pushing me towards Linux.

I am not computer savvy, I have a family member that will help me set up my PC, but I do not want to be calling/messaging them every day when I want to open a program.

Basically my question comes down to: can I operate a Linux PC these days without needing to troubleshoot or type code.

I use my computer about once a week for a few hours I would say, so any time spent troubleshooting is time wasted.

Thanks!

EDIT: since a lot of people are asking what programs I typically use, I'll just list my most used programs.

Word, Excel, ect(I'm fine with alternatives)

Spotify

Gimp (would have been a make or break, so I'm glad it's supported)

Brave browser (browser is a browser)

Steam

Discord

I would say that while I could figure out how the kernels work, I'm at a point with computers these days where I don't have the time. My priorities fall with a seamless daily experience. If I have the time to figure something out I can, but ideally my day to day usage being unbotherd is what I'm after.

A lot of the comments so far have been helpful! I'm definitely going to give Linux a fair shot with my new build, probably start with Mint.

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[–] UnixWeeb@lemmy.dbzer0.com 0 points 2 months ago (11 children)

Simple Answer: No

The moment you need to think about what distribution you need to choose from is where it'll stop any (dumb)user. Most people want a simple process with very little thinking.

If you are interested in learning linux and willing to take the time to understand the entire process that comes with it then yes.

[–] MyNameIsRichard@lemmy.ml 8 points 2 months ago (10 children)

I wonder how these people function in a supermarket

[–] flashgnash@lemm.ee 1 points 2 months ago (2 children)

Those are decisions about things everyone already understands, choosing a distro for a new user is like deciding what your favourite photo is from a blurry, black and white album

[–] MyNameIsRichard@lemmy.ml 1 points 2 months ago (1 children)

It's more like buying a car. Try a few out and settle on the one you like. You can even try them out online at distrosea

[–] flashgnash@lemm.ee 1 points 2 months ago

Problem is buying a car most of the different brands are quite different, there are so many distros that are just Ubuntu underneath that are basically identical with a different desktop

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