Linux Mint - Getting Started - Transition From Windows Today For Free!

LINUX MINT.

Are you a Windows user? Why haven't you transitioned to Linux yet?

Maybe you are decent with a computer and do not want to change, or you've only just recently been able to navigate a Windows PC and feel like the change to a new operating system would be too difficult. Well, I have news for you --it can be very easy and free. There are a multitude of Linux operating systems available, but for this instructional I would like to stick with Linux Mint since I have found it offers the easiest, most complete package (especially for new users) to use, and it's totally free.

Getting started:

1. Download the latest version (or earlier build with long term support) of Linux Mint.
Although it is not necessary, check the MD5 sum to ensure your download is intact. How?

• For old Win users (2000-XP any version) download from Microsoft here.
• If you're using a newer version of Windows, you can install a free tool here.
• Or you can search online for alternative MD5 tools for Windows.

Can I just install it onto my hard drive?

Certainly. You can either install along side Windows, or make a fresh install over your existing OS. Linux will reformat your drive and walk you through the process.

--That's it! Now, go to step 3.

- O R -
2. Make a bootable USB (thumb drive): UNetbootin - Homepage and Downloads

• You may also choose to make a bootable CD/DVD instead of a thumb drive.
• Whatever you use, be certain to make the device which reads it first on your boot menu located in the BIOS setup for your computer.

How do I access the BIOS?

Just hit the 'DEL' key on startup (or restart), or it may also be an alternative key such as F1, F2, or F10. Be certain you are pressing it before you boot into your operating system. Some systems will momentarily display a message or load/boot screen instructing you which button to press to enter your setup and BIOS. You may also turn this feature on from the BIOS if it does not currently display. Be sure to save and exit when you are finished.


3. Set up your new Linux Mint install and enjoy.


You will find Linux Mint to be very user friendly, and the functionality is in some ways much like a "Windows" experience, with navigation bar and a menu. If you cannot decide which version of Linux Mint to install, just try a bootable version for a week to find out if it suits you. If you are wondering about the difference between "Cinnamon" and "MATE" versions, it's no big deal. The Cinnamon version is the fancier one which can use more memory. If you're on an older PC or do not have much RAM, just go with Mate. You may also install the KDE or XFCE versions, and they each have their attraction. You will need to try them out to see if any of these will suit you. If you do not know which release of Mint you should install, go with any (LTS) long term supported release. Honestly, any version and any release will serve you better than Windows.

Latest build currently -- Linux Mint 18.1 "Serena" -- Download: Editions for Linux Mint 18.1 "Serena" - Linux Mint

"Breaking in your new install" will be the next post, where I briefly try to explain the update process, how to download free software, and integration ideas for you to familiarize yourself with Linux Mint.

 

It's time to start breaking in your new Linux Mint install.

Install New Programs - Navigate to your Software Manager.
Menu -> Administration -> Software Manager

You may now navigate your software manager for programs you wish to install that may not come with the initial Linux Mint download. You will find by double clicking any software item in the listing, it will display images of the program and a description as well as relevant user reviews. Every software item will also list the impact it will have on your system, that means what it may affect when you install it. I suggest just sticking with the "FEATURED" category until you are more comfortable.

Free, open source software really is impressive, isn't it?

Update Your System - Navigate to your Update Manager.
Menu -> Administration -> Update Manager

You may also find your update manager in the bottom task bar. This update manager is really easy to use and optional --that's something Microsoft will never be able to say. Also, Linux Mint is much safer than Windows in so many ways it would require a thread of its own. I guess you're just going to have to try it for yourself and see. It is a good idea to update your system with the latest updates, just to keep everything working at optimum. Remember, you have the control with this operating system. You decide what to install. I recommend always installing all priority 1 and 2 updates, and you can pass on the priority 3 updates if you wish to make a bold statement. Read the description of the update by clicking on it once. You may choose to ignore the update (right click), or ignore all updates from that particular package. You will not be bothered to update. Keep in mind, if you wish to upgrade to a newer version of Mint in the future, you should install the high priority updates. Long term support (LTS) releases provide an easy way to upgrade. Simply navigate to your Update Manager, then select "Edit" from the menu and choose "Upgrade..." from the listing to upgrade to the latest (or next new version).

What kind of programs are there?

So many, I couldn't possibly count, and more every day. Actually 76,247 at the time of this post. Here's a list of just some of the most popular programs, and all of these are capable of running in Windows, too. There's a utility or program for just about anything in Linux Mint. Try using your new Mint install, have fun knowing you are not contributing to Fascism and oppression.

If you like your Linux Mint operating system, consider donating to support the open source community.