Buzz
For most users, Windows is the only operating system they've ever interacted with. In fact, many people are completely unaware of other operating systems, and this is a problem. We enjoy having choices in our everyday life, whether it's the flavor of ice cream we choose or the brand of clothes we wear. So why shouldn’t we have that same freedom when it comes to our computers? While we can pick between NVIDIA or ATI graphics cards, nearly all PCs come with Windows pre-installed, almost as if it's forced upon us. Where's the choice in that?
There are numerous operating systems available, some better than others. This list will focus on Linux, a free and open-source OS. You may have never heard of it, or if you have, you probably have some misconceptions. I'll address some of these misunderstandings, starting with the most widespread one:
10. Is It Really an Operating System?
Myth: Linux is an Operating System (OS)
Actually, that's not quite right. Linux is actually the kernel of an operating system. The kernel serves as the core of any OS, and yes, Windows has one too. The kernel’s performance is crucial to how well the OS operates. If the kernel is sluggish or buggy, the entire system will be sluggish and prone to errors. For users like us, that translates into more crashes, Blue Screens of Death (if you're unfamiliar with BSOD, consider yourself fortunate), freezes, and the dreaded consequence of data loss. There are various types of kernels, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You can find more information by searching “kernel” online – it's a captivating topic.
Technically, the correct term for an operating system using the Linux kernel is “GNU/Linux”, since the Linux kernel wouldn’t serve much purpose without the GNU project’s software. You can easily find more details on this via Google. However, for ease of reading in this list, we'll stick to referring to it as “Linux” when talking about operating systems that use the Linux kernel.
9. The Dreaded Black Screen
Myth: Linux is a command-line only OS
That's not true. While Linux does make extensive use of command-line tools, it doesn’t mean you’re required to use them. A GUI (Graphical User Interface) is simply an addition to the operating system, not a necessity. The great part is, you can choose from a variety of different “windows” or, as they’re known in the Linux world, “window managers.”
The two most popular window managers are KDE and Gnome. KDE is similar to Windows in many respects and is a good option for users who prefer the familiar Windows interface. On the other hand, Gnome offers a unique experience, which many (myself included) find to be a refreshing and positive change. But KDE and Gnome aren’t your only choices – you can also opt for Enlightenment, Metacity, IceWM, Blackbox, Window Maker, FVWM, and many others.
If you're curious about what Linux window managers can do compared to Windows, check out this YouTube video, which demonstrates some of the fun effects available with the Compiz Fusion window manager. It’s pretty entertaining!
8. Techie Tools
Myth: Linux is only for geeks
In fact, I’d argue the opposite. While this was somewhat true in the past, back when Linux was still a young, rough-around-the-edges project, it’s definitely not the case anymore. If you take a closer look at Linux and Windows' user interfaces, you might be surprised by how user-friendly Linux has become. Take my wife, for example – she's not exactly a tech expert, yet she uses Ubuntu Linux every day without any issues. According to her (and I quote): “Linux is far less annoying, it doesn’t randomly stop working like Windows does.”
I think that could make a great official Linux slogan… :)
7. Software Compatibility Woes
Myth: Linux is incompatible with Windows files and software
It’s a bit of both – it depends. For most users, Linux is highly compatible. You’ll easily be able to check your emails, open Office files, view and edit photos, and do much more. Often, Linux has better, faster tools than those available on Windows. Renowned open-source programs like The Gimp, Inkscape, OpenOffice, and many others can import, read, and even export proprietary file formats like Microsoft Office documents or Photoshop PSDs. These tools often provide even more features than what you’re used to. For instance, I can export a document from OpenOffice to PDF with just one click – no need for special printers or online converters. It’s all built in.
Of course, there are some files that Linux can’t open. But, why is that the case? Is it really Linux’s fault, or is it the format creators’ decision to restrict access to certain operating systems? Consider this: do you want to rely on software vendors to access your data, or would you prefer to use open-source, standardized formats?
As an added bonus, many open-source applications developed for Linux also have Windows versions available. How cool is that?
If you need more than that, Linux offers a Windows compatibility layer called Wine. It lets you run Windows applications on Linux by acting as a bridge between the two systems. This means you can continue using your favorite Windows programs without switching operating systems.
6. Is there anyone around?
Myth: Linux has no user base
Absolutely wrong. Linux, along with GNU software, powers much of the internet. Thanks to its modular design and robust security features, it’s the go-to choice for web servers. Not only that, more and more people are discovering the benefits of Linux and using it at home. Several companies and governments have made the switch to Linux (shoutout to New Zealand!). It’s cost-effective, reliable, and secure, and it shows no signs of disappearing anytime soon. Unlike proprietary operating systems, Linux is maintained by the community – all of us – rather than a corporate entity. After all, if a company goes under, who will take care of your OS?
If you're still unsure, let this be a piece of proof: Mytour is built with PHP and runs on a network of Linux servers.
5. Customer Support
Myth: Linux lacks technical support
Not true. Linux has plenty of technical support options, both paid and free. When it comes to free support, the internet is home to numerous communities that operate around the clock. These are groups of passionate Linux users who are always ready to lend a hand and solve problems. Often, their motivation is simply to convert more users to Linux!
For those looking for paid support, companies like Red Hat and Canonical offer exactly that. If you ever need it, you can get the same level of technical assistance that is available for Windows.
4. System Upkeep
Myth: Linux is hard to maintain
This may have been the case years ago, but today, Linux requires little to no maintenance. Unlike Windows, it’s built in such a way that if you simply use it, you won’t face any issues. Linux makes it tough to break. If you have children, relatives, or elderly family members who often wreck their Windows systems or struggle with viruses, switch them to Linux. It’ll make things easier for you. I have an old Fedora 5 machine at work, and the only time it needs to be rebooted is during a power outage—if you can even call that a reboot.
3. Goodbye Windows
Myth: You must abandon Windows to use Linux
That’s not the case at all. A lot of Linux distributions offer something called a Live CD, which lets you test Linux without needing to install it. Simply download, burn it to a disc, reboot your computer, and you’re up and running. There are also Live USB versions available. If you like it, many of these Live versions allow you to install Linux side by side with Windows. You can run both systems on the same machine with zero issues. Linux developers have made this possible because they understand that no one wants to completely switch without trying things out first.
If dual-booting isn’t your thing, there are alternatives, such as VirtualBox, which lets you run Linux inside a virtual machine on your Windows system. Of course, if you prefer, you can always run VirtualBox on Linux and run Windows within it.
2. Hardware Issues
Myth: A lot of hardware doesn’t work on Linux
This used to be true, but not anymore. These days, Linux is compatible with almost any hardware. It automatically detects your system’s components, installs the necessary drivers, and you can carry on without any hassle. While there are occasional compatibility issues with certain printers, scanners, and wireless adapters, these are minor and can usually be resolved. Plus, Linux contributors are always working to improve this, so things keep getting better.
Here’s something else: if you have the skills, you can even contribute a driver for your device. If you find something lacking or unsatisfactory, you have the freedom to fix or improve it yourself. Just remember that the next time Microsoft decides to change the look of the Start menu.
1. Fun Games
Myth: Linux doesn’t have games
I can partially agree with this statement, but let’s put things in perspective. Historically, gaming on Linux has been a bit of a challenge, and it still remains a weak spot. There’s a lot more game variety and often better quality on Windows. Only a handful of companies have bothered to release Linux-compatible versions of their games. One of the notable ones is ID Software, who has made games like Doom, Quake 3, and Quake 4 available for Linux, along with other commercial titles like Heroes of Might and Magic 3, Civilization 3, Soldier of Fortune, and Tribes 2.
But here's where the resilient Linux community steps in. There are plenty of initiatives to develop genuinely enjoyable and playable games, all for free. Titles like Sauerbraten (shown above), Nexuiz, Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory, UFO: Alien Invasion, and Glest are not only free but also a lot of fun to play.
Additionally, as previously mentioned, you can run numerous games using Wine, including the popular World Of Warcraft. For those who are truly passionate about gaming, there are also paid alternatives like Cedega or CrossOver Games, commercial versions of Wine that are specifically designed to run games seamlessly.
+ What’s the next step?
So, what’s the next step? I recommend you give it a try yourself. If it doesn’t work for you, at least you’ve given it a shot. A great starting point would be using a Linux Distribution Chooser to find what works best for you. Afterward, just give it a go. Personally, I suggest Ubuntu as it’s simple and user-friendly. But, if it doesn’t suit you, don’t worry—there are plenty of other options to explore and find one that fits you best, not dictated by some corporate entity.
