this post was submitted on 23 Dec 2023
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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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Alright, peeps, I want to build Linux on my new PC and need some help with that. On my old PC, I had kubuntu installed, which I liked (at least until downloading Skype fried most of my installers and rebuffed all attempts at deinstallation). When installing kubuntu, I had a lot of help (and by a lot, I mean my friend did like 90% of the work) but as I don't see them quite as often and I would like to be a little more self-sufficient this time around, I implore thee, Linux users of Hexbear. So here are some general questions:

  1. Which distribution is right for me?

I have some experience with MINT and kubuntu. I really liked the KDE environment of kubuntu and generally preferred it to MINT. My friend uses archlinux, but they also warned me that arch requires a bit of expertise and isn't necessarily user firendly. It looked really cool, though. I am willing to learn, but I generally suck with computers. I will mostly use my PC for basic programming tasks and data analysis (mostly python using jupyter, but I would like to learn some basics in C++), similar work related tasks (using TeX-Studio, the pdf editing functions of programs like okular, Libre office on rare occasions etc.) and the occasional Minecraft session.

  1. Where can I find useful resources for learning about a given distribution?

Keep in mind that I suck absolute shit at computers. I know how to access/use the basic functions of the terminal and how to superficially navigate the PC, but anything beyond that is magic to me.

  1. Y'all got any good wallpapers?

A FALGSC themed wallpaper that doesn't burn your eyes out due to being perdominantly red would be cool.

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[–] kurisu@awful.systems 4 points 10 months ago* (last edited 10 months ago)
  • 1

If you're looking for something that won't break, Debian and openSUSE Tumbleweed are two good options. Both offer the Plasma desktop, though openSUSE may have an easier installation interface for some. Note that some video codecs aren't (officially) available, so if playing "differently acquired" media is a concern, perhaps Debian would be easier.

If you wanna try arch, consider EndeavourOS. It simplifies the installation process significantly, though it doesn't do much to help maintain the system. That's on you. Avoid Manjaro like a plague.

  • 2

The Arch Wiki is universally considered the best source. 99% of what you'll see on there will work on any linux distro, so don't worry about the name. Aside from that, your favourite search engine is your best bet.

  • 3

No clue what FALGCS means, but https://wallhaven.cc a great place for wallpapers.

Edit: seems the Manjarno site is down. Shame, genuinely useful site for times like this.