Trying out Linux for the first time, but can't even get it installed.

AntiGanda said:
If you're having trouble now, think what it will be like in future.

Use Windows, since it works well and 99% of people use it. It took a while to reach this point and Linux will still be very unfriendly 10 years from now.
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Ignore this individual as he's ignored in the adsl forums and he's clueless.
 
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HideInLight said:
But at this point I might need convincing that Linux is still actually relevant.
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Sorry, I'm not going to try and convince you, that's not how it works. You've made up your mind, might have helped if you asked for advice before you started. Linux/Unix/BSD is NOT windows, it requires a mindset change and only then will you see the light & wonder htf you did not come around sooner. Use what works for you is my motto.
 
Mint took me 5 minutes to install and all you do is point and click most of the items. Suse is too advanced. I installed dropbox, xbmc and the 7zip packages so far.
 
My journey with Linux started about a year before Ubuntu came out.
I only use Linux when I have to (primarily as a LAMP server) so my knowledge after all these years is infantile.

But here is what I have learned.

  • Do not be caught up in Linux vs Windows (or any other OS) wars. Each has its strength, use the one that makes sense to you and you will be happy.
  • Having started with OpenSUSE, I have discovered you are likely going to find a solution for an Ubuntu related Linux problem before you find anOpenSUSE related Linux solution. Thats because of the popularity of Ubuntu.
  • If you have a problem and Linux can't fix it, then you have the wrong problem :-).
 
I couldn't even get LAN to work, nor my Vodafone modem.
When I tried to install VLC it wanted the internet.

It's one big deadend.
 
HideInLight said:
I couldn't even get LAN to work, nor my Vodafone modem.
When I tried to install VLC it wanted the internet.

It's one big deadend.
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There's probably alot of proprietary drivers needed for your system which certain distro's don't include.

Regarding distro's to go for I'm gonna agree with most here and recomend Mint. I've used linux for years but nowadays I really dont have the time to tinker with things when it breaks (Or doesn't ever work) like I did when I rolled arch linux. Mint installs easily, automatically detects and runs 99% hardware even using nonfree drivers if needed, has a polished and usable desktop out of the box and is rock solid and stable while still having access to the most popular repo's in linux.

Mint is simply the best linux desktop distro available in almost every way and you'll be doing yourself a disservice if you dont try it out. (IMO)
 
Isn't there like one bloody distro that would just allows me to download something VLC as one file, allow me to put it on a USB drive and double click it?

Also one that doesn't have a bunch of random crappy names. Checking the installation instructions and Linux seems awfully pointless without a working internet connection on that machine.
 
HideInLight said:
Isn't there like one bloody distro that would just allows me to download something VLC as one file, allow me to put it on a USB drive and double click it?

Also one that doesn't have a bunch of random crappy names. Checking the installation instructions and Linux seems awfully pointless without a working internet connection on that machine.
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AFAIK Ubuntu and Mint have 'app stores' if you will that allow you to browse for software by category and install as you please

EDIT: Synaptic Package Manager for Mint and Software Centre for Ubuntu
 
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Mint picks up my cheapie usb 3 card and GT610 without a problem. Getting full gigabit cross wired connections as well.
 
Always a wise move to try (and install from) a "Live" version of the distro you'll be using. Gives you a chance to check if your hardware is fully supported out of the box or if you'll need to jump through a few hoops.
 
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