Getting Started On Linux
By Juergen Haas, About.com Guide to Linux
This user path is for Linux beginners. The articles included here will guide you through choosing your first Linux computer, Linux distribution, desktop environment, web browser, word processor, spreadsheet, and graphics application.
- Your First Linux Computer
- Your First Linux Distro
- Your First Desktop Environment
- Your First Linux Internet Browser
- First Office and Email Software
Your First Linux Computer
First, you need to decide if Linux is for you. Knowing the differences among Windows, Linux, and Unix, and hardware requirements will help you make the decision. Then, for new Linux users, help is available for customizing your new Linux desktop and accessing basic applications.
- Three Easy Ways to Get a Linux Desktop
- Operating Systems: Unix vs. Windows
- More About Operating Systems And Linux Distributions
Your First Linux Distro
What is a Linux distro or distribution? Why do some experts say: Whichever distribution you decide to install, you will end up with essentially the same Linux? But having over a hundred to choose from, how can one decide? The following advice and comparisons will help you find the right distro for you.
- Which Linux Distribution Should I Use?
- Which Linux Distribution for Older Computers?
- Popular Linux Distributions
Your First Desktop Environment
Besides the operating system Linux, which performs the basic computer functions like file access and network connections, you also need a graphical desktop environment that provides a friendly user interface for you to interact with the computer. KDE is a good choice for people familiar with Microsoft Windows. GNOME on the other hand makes it easy even for computer novices to use Linux.
Your First Linux Internet Browser
Popular Internet browsers are Firefox, Konqueror, and Opera.
First Office and Email Software
OpenOffice.org is a set of applications that has similar functionality as MicroSoft Office. It includes a word processor, spread sheet, presentation software, and database system. Evolution is a popular email and calendar program similar to Microsoft Outlook.
