A few years back, my journey began as a Windows-only user, with only fleeting encounters with Ubuntu during my college days. This led me to a dual-boot configuration on my desktop, allowing me to navigate both Windows 10 and Ubuntu seamlessly. However, a recent mishap with my desktop’s power supply unit, caused by a malfunctioning APC UPS, forced me to seek an alternative. With my desktop out of commission and work demanding my attention, I opted for a laptop.
Initially equipped with Windows 11, I managed to stay productive, but the constraints of running Linux distributions in a virtual machine soon became apparent. It wasn’t long before I fully transitioned to Ubuntu 22.04.4 LTS, which performed admirably until I encountered a need to test GPU usage tools. A simple driver switch led to unexpected complications, prompting a mid-week switch to Fedora. Despite these challenges, I firmly believe that Linux distributions represent the future of computing.
Understanding Linux Package Managers
As I reflect on my early days with Linux, I recall the confusion surrounding the myriad of package managers and types. The APT package manager on Ubuntu took some getting used to, as did the various formats for installing software, including DEB, Flatpak, Snap, and AppImage. For those just starting out, it’s important to remember that the specific type of package you use is less critical than simply getting the job done. Whether your software center lists Snap, deb, rpm, or Flatpak packages, you can install any of them with ease. Notably, Snaps and Flatpaks often provide newer versions of applications.
Exploring Desktop Environments
Another initial hurdle was understanding desktop environments. However, with the wealth of resources available, particularly from It’s FOSS, I quickly became comfortable with these concepts. Exploring different desktop environments can help you find the one that best suits your workflow. My personal choice was GNOME, which offers a unique layout that enhances my productivity.
Optimizing Workflow with GNOME
In my daily routine, I engage in extensive research for potential stories and seek out new applications or tools that may benefit our readers. This often involves juggling numerous windows and browser tabs, necessitating an organized workspace. Here, GNOME’s workspaces feature proves invaluable, allowing me to arrange my applications according to my preferences. Additionally, I rely on the Chromium-based Vivaldi browser for its exceptional tab management capabilities.
Essential Linux Applications
Linux has provided me with applications for nearly every need:
- An image editing tool: GIMP ✔️
- A music streaming service: Spotify ✔️
- A VPN solution: Proton VPN ✔️
- A comprehensive office suite: LibreOffice ✔️
For those not reliant on Windows-specific software, transitioning to Linux is generally straightforward.
The Joy of Customization
One of the most exciting aspects of using Linux is the level of customization it offers, far beyond what proprietary systems like Windows allow. My work setup, enhanced with various GNOME extensions, allows me to monitor system details effortlessly and even switch desktop environments to something more minimalistic like LXQt. The flexibility of window tiling with GNOME extensions has transformed my workflow, especially when utilizing multiple displays.
Gaming on Linux
Gaming on Linux has also been a pleasant surprise. Earlier this year, I tested Cyberpunk 2077, which ran smoothly and performed impressively. This experience inspired me to dedicate a month exclusively to playing native Linux games, yielding fantastic results.
If you are ready to switch...
Based on my experience, if you’re contemplating a switch, it’s essential to recognize that no operating system—be it Windows, macOS, or Linux—is without its flaws.
