Recently, the owner of a Samsung N150 netbook contacted me after reading my post, which said that I have the same netbook on which I installed different Linux distributions. A reader reported that he decided to ditch Windows on his N150 ( good decision), and asked for advice on choosing a suitable Linux distribution, given that he is new to Linux. Having written a rather long answer, I thought that its contents might be of interest to many and could lead to interesting discussions. So I'm stating my opinion.

Introduction

The first thing that definitely needs to be taken into account is that the Samsung N150 Plus model is already very old, very small in size (10.1-inch screen with a correspondingly compact keyboard) and by today's standards very weak ( Intel processor Atom N450, 1 GB RAM, 250 GB disk). When choosing a Linux distribution for it, you need to take all these circumstances into account.

The second important factor is the user himself. The reader wrote that he is new to Linux, and therefore has not tried to install Linux before. Therefore, I need to try to choose a distribution that is easy to install.

But I’m not a big fan of Linux distributions, whose developers, counting on novice users, try to turn Linux into the same Windows. I think that a good desktop will suit any user, especially if they are open to new things and are willing to understand them and adapt accordingly.

Finally, I would like to once again emphasize that the recommendations proposed below are focused on a specific situation, which involves installing Linux on a six-year-old netbook. They should not be extended to other systems.

What options?

After some thought, I decided that it was logical to first take a look at the Linux distributions that I already have installed on my personal N150 Plus. Moreover, the moment was most suitable, since I had not touched this netbook for several months, but decided to use it last week when preparing my post on the ZDNet blog about Fedora 24, downloading the LXDE version of this distribution onto it.

As soon as I took it out and turned it on, out of habit, I examined its contents and updated all the distributions installed on it.

I currently have it installed and configured for multiboot the following options OS:

OpenSuSE Tumbleweed KDE;
- Fedora 24 LXDE;
- Debian 8.5 (Jessie) Xfce;
- Manjaro 16.06 Xfce;
- Linux Mint 17.3 Cinnamon;
- Linux Mint Debian Edition 2 MATE;
- PCLinuxOS Xfce;
- Ubuntu 15.10;
- openSuSE Leap 42.1 Xfce.

You'll probably notice that Windows is conspicuously missing from this list. I gave up Windows a long time ago, cleaning the OS from my poor little Samsung N150 Plus; it originally ran Windows 7 Starter Edition, and it was absolutely hopeless in terms of speed and capabilities.

The first and perhaps the best advice I can give to a newbie on choosing a Linux distribution is that he definitely can’t go wrong if he chooses any of the above options. Essentially, they are based on the same OS, but differ in how the graphics look user interface and what programs, utilities and applications are included in the basic system package.

Also keep in mind that you'll be able to start learning and working with Linux right away, as installing Linux from scratch on the N150 takes less than an hour, and everything is made much faster and easier by not having to worry about being able to boot into Windows.

Thus, you have an excellent opportunity to choose any distribution, install it and play with it for several hours, days or weeks, and if your mood changes, copy the personal files and data you need to a USB drive and select any one for installation and testing another distribution until you settle on one that you really like and works well on the N150.

For a beginner who will have to install Linux without the help of an experienced user, I would advise choosing distributions in the following order:

1 Linux Mint 18 MATE

It seems to me that this is the best combination of a good, stable, well-known and well-supported distribution, an easy-to-understand and use desktop for newcomers coming from Windows, and a very good set of applications and utilities as part of the base installation.

Mint 18 is a completely new release, available today in the form of an image for beta testing, but I installed it on several of my laptops (not yet on the N150, but, apparently, I will do so in the coming days), and at the moment I have everything works perfect for me. Mint developers have already reported that it will be possible to switch from the beta version to the final release by simply updating without repeating a clean installation (this is good news); Plus, Mint 18 is an LTS release with extended support, so you don't have to worry about being forced to upgrade in six months or a year.

In this case, I especially recommend the MATE version, since it is lightweight compared to the Mint Cinnamon desktop and will work slightly better on the N150. But realistically, it seems to me that Mint Cinnamon will also be a good fit for the N150. The announcement of the release of this beta version, along with a list of mirrors for downloading it, is posted on the official Linux Mint blog.

2 Manjaro 16.06.1 Xfce

Manjaro 16.06.1 Xfce

Personally, I prefer this particular distribution, but I didn’t put it in first place because Mint is a more solid, well-known and long-proven option. Manjaro developers consider the Xfce desktop as the main one for their version of the OS, and in this case there is always a lot of attention to detail.

In my opinion, this distribution is slightly superior to Linux Mint in terms of implementing the latest trends (it is a so-called rolling distribution, updated continuously, while MATE is a point release type distribution, supplied in discrete versions). Therefore, Manjaro absorbs innovations faster than Linux Mint.

Meanwhile, Linux Mint is particularly well known for having the widest range of multimedia applications and codecs out of the box, and if you want to use the N150 for web surfing, watching videos from YouTube and other sources, etc., Mint will likely be a more preferable choice.

3 PCLinuxOS MATE

I do not have such great experience everyday use of PCLinuxOS, as in the case of Mint or Manjaro, and therefore I put this option after them. But this is definitely a good, solid distribution with a long history, including a very decent set of utilities and applications in the basic installation.

The only reason I would rank it much lower than the previous two is the PCLinuxOS installer - it feels like it hasn't changed much for years, and that shows in a number of ways. However, PCLinuxOS's greatest strength is its amazingly dedicated and helpful community, which can be reached in the dedicated forums.

These people are absolutely wonderful, and if you need any help after installing Linux, these forums are... best place, which I could recommend. Mint and Manjaro also have good, active and helpful communities, but the people on the PCLOS forums are amazing.

I recommend installing PCLinuxOS version of MATE, although the KDE desktop is the flagship for this distribution. The fact is that KDE and MATE have obvious differences in terms of system load and resource consumption. Additionally, when using the latest releases of KDE, there are some pretty serious performance issues with the N150 graphics adapter. These can be fixed quite easily (simply by changing one of the settings in the KDE desktop configuration), but I don’t think that a new Linux user should have to deal with this when installing Linux for the first time.

Plus, PCLinuxOS MATE has just been updated to 16.06, so the installation should be even smoother than before, with fewer updates to download once it's complete.

4 Debian 8.5 (Jessie) and Linux Mint Debian Edition

Debian 8.5 (Jessie)

I put these two distributions after the previous three because I think they are generally less friendly to novice users. It's not entirely fair on my part to put LMDE together with Debian, but they are close enough to write essentially the same thing twice. In the basic installation, both distributions are slightly poorer than the previous three, and their updates and patches arrive somewhat less frequently.

I also think that these two distributions would appeal to far fewer first-time users.

5 Ubuntu

Installing Ubuntu 16.04 LTS (Xenial Xerus)

Let me start by saying that I am categorically not a fan of Ubuntu (neither the distribution nor the company behind it), and therefore I never recommend this distribution. However, personal biases aside, I must say that the Ubuntu Unity desktop is dramatically (in every way) different from what we saw on Windows, and in order to start working with it, you will have to spend some time retraining.

I also think the Unity desktop isn't particularly suited to the N150, particularly due to the netbook's small screen and very weak graphics card. There are other flavors of Ubuntu without the Unity desktop, but I don't see any particular merit in them over independent Ubuntu derivatives like Linux Mint, and in any case I have a feeling that the future of the various flavors of Ubuntu is always in doubt. release to release. However, I installed Ubuntu on my N150 and I have to say that the system works. Another thing that speaks in her favor is that she has a very large number of installations.

Ubuntu is almost as good as Linux Mint in terms of ease of installation and availability of multimedia applications and codecs, but not all of them are included in the base installation, and you will likely have to do one or more extra steps to get the same experience. The result is that with a basic installation of Mint.

6 openSuSE Leap

While this is also a good choice, it is usually used by corporate business users who also use SuSE Linux Enterprise distributions on their desktops. The distro is really good and I have the Xfce version installed on my N150 and it works flawlessly. But if beginners need real help, finding it in this case will be more difficult.

7 Fedora

I would not recommend installing Fedora for novice users. This is a very innovative distribution that is not always easy to work with even for an experienced user, and I am afraid that it will not be easy for beginners. But there is another problem - in pre-installed utilities, applications, codecs, and so on. Fedora is very conservative when it comes to software that isn't strictly FOSS, and the base installation of this distro doesn't include much of what most of the other distros on my list have. Moreover, since the Fedora Gnome distribution is considered a flagship distribution by the developers, maximum attention is paid to it, in particular in terms of the quality and completeness of the selection of applications, but there is absolutely no chance that you will be able to install and use

8 Fedora Gnome 3 on N150

It is difficult to say anything definitive about versions of Fedora with other desktops. I admit that versions of MATE or Xfce will be able to work on the N150, but then you will have to figure out which additional programs and packages need to be added and, perhaps, where to get them from (for this you often have to connect the RPM Fusion repository). This is not at all what I would recommend to a beginner. And, alas, I encountered a couple of serious problems with the version of Fedora LXDE that I just installed on my N150, so I decided to abandon it altogether.

9 openSuSE Tumbleweed

openSuSE Tumbleweed

This is, so to speak, a production distribution. It is not suitable for those who are installing Linux for the first time.

Conclusion

That's all I wanted to say. Please keep in mind that these recommendations are based on my own experience and are tailored to specific Samsung system N150 Plus and cover the group of Linux distributions that are currently installed on my personal N150 Plus. I haven't touched on a number of other distributions that I currently use on other systems (Sparky, Korora, KaOS and several others), and I'm keeping silent about those that I haven't installed or used myself.

I am sure that after this article there will be many comments like “How would you rate the xxyyzz distribution?” or even “Why don’t you recommend my favorite distribution?”

Please do me a small favor: when posting comments like this, add at least a little information about why I should (or shouldn't) mention this or that distribution, and how they are better or worse than the ones I mentioned. I hope this leads to an interesting and useful discussion.

The Linux.com website offered readers its version of the best distributions of the current year. However, for now this is not a statement of fact, but only a forecast based on a noticeable increase in popularity open solutions both in the corporate and consumer sectors.

1 Best Comeback: OpenSUSE

SUSE is one of the oldest developers of the Linux system. The company was founded a year after Linus Torvalds announced creating Linux. In fact, SUSE is even older than Red Hat.

Last year, the distribution developers made the most important decision for the development of the product - to bring openSUSE as close as possible to SUSE Linux Enterprise. Thus, openSUSE Leap is directly based on the SLE SP 1 codebase.

As a result of this step, openSUSE has become much more interesting for a potential user of a corporate system, since it will simplify the transition to it. But that is not all. The release of a special Tumbleweed distribution with continuous updates will allow you to stay up to date with the latest software.

Thus, the openSUSE user has the option of either running the stable version or installing the always up-to-date Tumbleweed. Thus, the solution has become truly universal.

2 Most Customizable Distro: Arch Linux

Arch Linux continues to outperform all other distributions in many ways. Therefore, it remains the choice of many experienced users.

It is an ideal choice for those who want to learn Linux. Since almost everything there is done manually, the user recognizes the structure of each operating system file.

Arch Linux is the most customizable distribution. It does not have “its own” desktop and default software set. After installation, the user receives only the “base” of the system, and does everything else independently. The result is a work environment that has everything you need and nothing you don't.

Arch Linux is the best of the releases with a continuous update cycle. The user can be sure that the most current versions of application software are installed on his system.

This distribution is also known for its excellent documentation. ArchWiki is one of the best sites for learning the Linux system.

In addition, Arch Linux is the richest repository. If the program runs on Linux, then it will almost certainly be found in the Arch User Repository.

3 The most beautiful distribution: Elementary OS

Different distributions are created for different purposes. Most often these are some technical features solutions. Appearance desktop is a secondary matter.

The Elementary OS developers decided to try a different approach. Design is of utmost importance, and the reason for this is quite obvious - the system is created by designers. However, this concept has led to the fact that they choose for the system only applications that fit into the design of the original desktop. But you have to come to terms with this - the distribution is designed to be the most beautiful, not the most functional.

4 Best Debut: Solus

The distribution cannot complain about the lack of attention from users. Moreover, the attention is well deserved.

The system was created from scratch - not a derivative of Debian or Ubuntu. It's based on the Budgie desktop and features the same minimalism as Google Chrome OS.

Although, strictly speaking, this is not at all new project. However, it was last year that it was revived under this name.

5 Best Cloud OS: Chrome OS

Chrome OS is not your typical Linux distribution. It is simply a browser based on the Linux operating system.

The solution is very convenient for daily use. It does not require maintenance, and the software is updated automatically without user intervention, since it is located on the server. A good choice for those who only need a computer for surfing the Internet.

6 Best Laptop OS: Ubuntu MATE

Most laptops do not have particularly high technical specifications. Therefore, “heavy” desktop environments are contraindicated for such devices - they not only consume a lot of system resources, but also quickly drain battery power.

A good choice for a laptop is Ubuntu MATE. It's a lightweight desktop, but it has all the bells and whistles you need for a pleasant work experience. System resources are spent on application programs, and not on supporting the graphical environment itself.

7 Best distro for older hardware: Lubuntu

If you have an old laptop or PC, then don't throw it away. Perhaps the Lubuntu system will breathe new life into it.

For now, this distribution uses the LXDE desktop, but future versions plan to use LXQt, a project resulting from the merger of LXDE and Razor Qt. Thus, Lubuntu is the best choice for legacy hardware.

8 Best Distro for IoT: Snappy Ubuntu Core

Snappy Ubuntu Core

This solution is the best Linux system for the Internet of Things. It will make it possible to turn almost all the equipment around us into smart devices: routers, coffee makers, unmanned aerial vehicles...

What makes the distribution attractive is its efficient update management and the ability to use containers to improve security. The last feature is extremely relevant, since the very concept of IoT implies special attention to countering information threats.

9 Best Desktop Distro: Linux Mint Cinnamon

Linux Mint Cinnamon

Linux Mint Cinnamon is a universal system, perfect for both desktop computers and powerful laptops. It is often called Mac OS X in the Linux world.

For quite a long time, the use of Linux Mint was associated with certain problems due to the instability of the Cinnamon working environment. But everything changed as soon as the decision was made to use Ubuntu LTS as the basis and focus exclusively on developing the graphical interface itself.

10 Best distribution for games: Steam OS

Games have always been the weak point of the Linux desktop. A significant portion of users decided to save to Windows computer solely to be able to play.

Valve Software has decided to change this state of affairs. The Steam OS system allows you to run games on various platforms. The solution was brought to market at the end of last year.

11 Best Distro for Privacy: Tails

Observations of user actions are a real scourge of modern life. Privacy is slowly becoming a myth. Which led to the need for a system that ensures the confidentiality of information.

The best solution for this purpose: Tails. The distribution is based on Debian and offers the user tools to ensure complete anonymity on the Internet. This solution is so effective that the NSA considers it a serious threat to their mission.

12 Best Multimedia Distro: Ubuntu Studio

Along with games, support for multimedia content is a weak point of Linux. Almost all applications aimed at professional users run on either Windows or Mac OS X.

However, there are also plenty of decent programs for similar purposes for Linux. And all of them are collected in the Ubuntu Studio system. The system uses lightweight Xfce as a desktop, which allows you to direct maximum computer resources to support the operation of application programs.

13 Best Enterprise Distro: SLE/RHEL

Debian 8 with Numix icon theme

If you want to deploy a server but can't afford to pay for SLE or RHEL, there's nothing better than Debian or CentOS. Essentially, these systems are the gold standard of a community-built server.

The systems are supported long enough that users do not have to worry about upgrading the software. This additional advantage makes the systems attractive not only for home users, but also for small businesses.

15 Best Mobile System: Plasma Mobile

Despite the fact that the main mobile OS today is Android, some users would like to have mobile device a traditional Linux system with a familiar set of applications. Moreover, they believe that the distribution should be developed not by a company, but by an independent community.

A suitable solution for them is KDE Plasma Mobile. A corresponding solution is being prepared within the Kubuntu project.

16 Best Distro for ARM: Arch Linux ARM

Arch Linux ARM on Raspberry PI

Success mobile system Android has given rise to a wide range of ARM devices, from the Raspberry Pi to the Chromebook to the Nvidia Shield. There are also specialized distributions for ARM, but they are designed for specific hardware. Like, for example, Raspbian for Raspberry Pi.

And only Arch Linux ARM is a universal system that can be installed on any ARM device. And thanks to the Arch User Repository, many applications are available that are not available in other distributions.

UPD. If you are a beginner and don’t know which distribution to choose, then we recently published new material especially for you: .

So - the decision has been made. We will assume that you are convinced of the promise and convenience of the Linux system and, instead of buying a new computer running Win8, you have decided to replace WinXP with a free OS. How to be? There are so many things around... Not every Linux is equally useful for a “refugee”, but the choice of suitable options is quite wide. Currently, about 350 distributions use the Linux kernel, in addition to systems based on Debian, there are also systems based on Slackware, Red-Hat, Arch and Gentoo. Many options are very specialized and fall off the list of candidates for replacing WinXP at home.

Will have to sort it out a bit

All sorts of things Arch And Gentoo- the lot of Linux specialists glorified on the Internet and are not entirely suitable for the average user. Of all the options RedHat You can look at only two versions that are easily suitable for immigrants from WinXP:

Fedora Linux(https://fedoraproject.org/ru/) pleases the eye every time and amuses with the freshness of its functionality. However, no one there cares about the economy of old hardware and is not particularly worried about newcomers who are about to switch from Windows. But everything is beautiful and very relevant.

Mageia(http://www.mageia.org/ru/) was released at the beginning of 2014 in version 4 and also belongs to the family RedHat. Perhaps, of all the options, this is the only one that is clearly aimed at a simple end consumer. The best system installation manager in the Linux environment and a very successful graphical shell (your choice of KDE or Gnome). One argument against Mageia: this is still a young development and it is unknown how it will develop in the future.

Open SuSe(http://www.opensuse.org/ru/) - the only member of the family Slackware, which can be discussed here. For more than one decade, this distribution was generally the only option that was sharpened for desktop computer and is designed for the convenience of the end user.

Ubuntu and comrades - people from a glorious family Debian and are currently best choice for novice users. Anyone who needs a simple, fast and stable system, but does not want to delve into the settings, will be pleased. Among other things, a friendly company of different Ubuntu offers, on a common basis, numerous options for different tastes and needs.

The best Ubuntu for those who want to "switch"

This is practically a standard for desktop Linux -- Ubuntu(www.ubuntu.com). The current version 14.04 is the so-called LTS (long time support), which is also suitable for production use (server, etc.), as it will be provided with updates for another five years. Installing Ubuntu is simple, and using the system itself is almost intuitive. Some may find the Unity work surface criticized by traditionalists strange, but general impression little suffers from this. And for those who really can’t bear it, there are options for every taste.

Kubuntu(www.kubuntu.org) is still Ubuntu with all the amenities, but instead of Unity it uses a very elegant KDE surface. This shell shines with the greatest possible variability and has a huge number of settings and additions. Kubuntu expresses its advantages on large monitor and fresher computers. Any fan of tinkering with system settings will be simply happy. Numerous communities on the Internet are full of “tuned” desktops of proud users.

Ubuntu Gnome(http://ubuntugnome.org) - this option replaces Unity with the Gnome graphical shell, as the name suggests. This environment is also elegant and thoughtful, but all the graphics “stuff” requires its attention from the processor and video card.

A relative novelty is Elementary OS "Luna"(http://elementaryos.org), based, for now, on the previous LTS version of Ubuntu 12.04. The main feature of this distribution is the Pantheon surface derived from Gnome, which, in some way, copies MacOS. The authors have created a nice system with a set of especially economical and fast programs. But the user can assemble everything to his taste - the main components of Ubuntu are preserved.

Linux Mint(http://linuxmint.com) is currently distributed in version 17 and is also based on Ubuntu. This version of the OS differs from the above in having the lowest hardware requirements. The Cinnamon desktop is a departure from Unity, and the traditionally designed menu is a clear invitation to those moving from Windows.

The system is quickly and easily installed, configured and expanded. Unlike other systems, Linux Mint is able to handle all audio or video codecs immediately after installation. Updating Mint versions follows Ubuntu versions. And for KDE fans there is also a corresponding version - currently it is Linux Mint 16 "Petra".

Fresh wind on old iron

Often, after removing WinXP from service, the home is left with a rather weak computer with outdated peripherals. But don’t give in to despondency - minimalist Linux shouldn’t look poor and modest. Already from Pentium III or Athlon AMD and random access memory on 512MB you can run a pretty decent system that can adequately replace an old Windows. In general, you can rely on operating systems that use the XFCE or LXDE graphical shell. These are, respectively, Xubuntu And Lubuntu. Again, Linux Mint comes in a version with an LXDE environment.

They manage resources even more economically Bodhi Linux And Precise Puppy Linux. Note to the inquisitive user, as they say. There are several outdated versions of “light” Linux, but it’s better to leave them aside.

The easiest way is to rely on Lubuntu or Mint LXDE- after installation, the user receives a fully functional system, and work menu Windows-style makes it easier for experienced Windows users to transition.

Based on materials from Linux WELT magazine (03/2014)

Victor Hartmann
Berlin

Linux is a thing that has always been interesting to me, from the moment I first learned about the existence of this OS. Even interest in Android appeared precisely because Linux. At that time, Android itself did not yet exist, there was only talk that Google was preparing its own mobile OS and Google Phone. But I got carried away, started tracking it, a little later I bought myself an HTC Hero, and a little later a site appeared, which at that time turned out to be the first site about Android in RuNet.

Let me make a reservation right away - much of what is written here will be very subjective. What is good for me is not a fact that it will suit you, but at the same time, I think that for many it will also be relevant and fair.

A long time ago

In general, I started trying Linux a long time ago, while still buying distributions on Gorbushka and Savelovsky. Right now Mandrake, Red Hat, Debian, then Ubuntu immediately come to mind. But it didn’t catch on; at that time the system was not for people, or rather not for the mass average user, but exclusively for geeks, and quite advanced ones at that. I wanted to play games and surf the Internet, which I couldn’t do with Linux. Those were still dial-up times, and then ADSL life with Stream. It was not possible to install drivers for my modem, and delving into the new complex OS without the help of the Internet seemed unrealistic, so I stayed on Windows.

Trying with Linux Mint

Now, with the release Microsoft Windows 10, I once again thought that it was time to change the main operating system, because I was no longer happy with Windows in its current form. I tried the Mac again, preparing to buy this toy, but once again I concluded that it was not for me. This system is even less convenient and less pleasant for me than Windows. But there are also different builds of Linux. It was decided to try Linux Mint, which at that time was externally designed to look like Windows 7. But again it didn’t catch on, I dabbled for a few days, configured what was required, but in the end the software shortage took its toll, and I couldn’t bring myself to get used to the new software , a long-term habit has won. However, Linux Mint, a slightly later version, took root on my mother's PC. True, now I didn’t like the appearance.

No matter how much I searched for GTK themes or icon packs, everything turned out somehow different. As a result, the search had to be continued. And the software package that comes with Linux Mint 17.3 Rosa seemed bloated. I wanted to find something even lighter in the sense that the kit would contain only very basic things and nothing more. But after Mint I realized that today Linux is already usable and suitable for me for most tasks.

Minimalism and beauty of Elementary OS

Having scoured the Internet, I came across Elementary OS Freya 0.3.2, in which this text is now being typed. Yes, this is something that I can safely recommend to beginners and those looking for something new.

Elementary OS is a minimalistic Linux distribution, minimalism can be seen in literally everything. Elementary OS, like Linux Mint, is based on Ubuntu 14.04. But, if it always seemed to me that Linux has a bad design of the OS itself, then Elementary OS made me fall in love with its appearance. I don’t want to go back to Windows, and I never liked the Mac design. Although, it is worth recognizing that it is noticeable that the Elementary designers were clearly inspired by the brainchild of Apple. But for my taste, in many ways it turned out better than the original. Although there are also shortcomings, a decent number, but not critical.

Carefully designed visual diagram, the icons are drawn in the same style, there is even a package of applications in the Elementary style so that they do not stand out. All sorts of photo viewers, calculator, calendar, audio player, video player, notepad, explorer and other essential programs for the average user are here out of the box, just in the style of the system. For many this will be enough. However, someone without installation third party software will hardly be able to live. And these applications will already be highlighted in the system.

I would also like to say thank you to the developers for the animations. For almost every action we see something smooth and beautiful. Plus, Elemenatry OS itself turns out to be very fast. First, the download, which only takes a few seconds. Secondly, download all applications. If on Windows Chrome browser with a couple of dozen bookmarks it opens in a few seconds, but in Elementary OS it loads in a second. Likewise, for example, Opera or Vivaldi. Yes, here all applications open as if you maximized the window, taking the program out of RAM, and not loading it from scratch. This is also very captivating and I don’t want to go back to Windows 10, which previously seemed fast.

Some conveniences of Linux and Elementary OS

In addition, after installation of the system, which takes less than ten minutes, the system is immediately ready for use. I didn’t have to download any drivers - everything works. This is definitely true if you install Elemenatary OS on an Asus Zenbook.

Console or terminal or, so to speak, command line- one of the strengths of Linux. Still, very often it is much faster and easier to do something by typing a command or several commands than by remembering where it is required setting or a button or program in which you need to click the mouse here or there. What does it cost to update? installed applications via terminal. We typed “sudo apt-get update”, and then “sudo apt-get dist-upgrade”, the system updated the cache, polled the servers for new versions of all installed software, and then pulled up and installed the latest versions. You don't have to worry about package dependencies. You don’t need to download any additional frameworks to find out which libraries were missing and that the application didn’t start, as often happens in Windows. Here everything will happen without bothering the user. This is a system for geeks - it will understand and do everything itself.

Or, for example, if you need to install some kind of program, you tell the system almost in human language: “install program XXX,” and it does it. you need to delete - again the command in the terminal, the system will clean everything up itself, at least with the configuration files, at least leaving them.

Downloading and trying out themes, without reboots and other things. In general, reboots are required quite rarely.

I'm not talking about tools for developers. Everything here has been known for a long time.

Sometimes the lack of a desktop in the usual sense is confusing. It is here only for beauty. If desired, of course, it can be activated “fully”, but this is the philosophy of Elementary - asceticism and beauty.

Disadvantages of Elementary OS and Linux in particular

Of the minuses, of course, there is a shortage of software. It is not possible to find for every tool or product that I used in Windows a worthy alternative in Linux. Alas, so far. There is a replacement for almost everything, but it can be so poor that it will simply be impossible to use something analogous. For example, the same Dropbox client is deprived of most of its capabilities. Exactly those that make work faster, more productive and more convenient. Although it was even more difficult before, some progress and development are still visible.

The Linux OS has become the subject of all sorts of myths, the main one claiming that it is completely unsuited to the needs of ordinary users. Obviously, such tales are told by people who are not at all familiar with it, otherwise they would know that Linux is unpretentious, convenient, and extremely easy to install and work with all applications. Everything will be discussed in order below.

A little about Linux

This is the collective name for UNIX-like operating systems. the basis for which serves the Linux kernel of the same name, which also combines the libraries collected for it, system programs, developed by the GNU Project. The full name of the kernel, which runs like most others on PC-compatible systems such as Intel x86 and the like, is GNU/Linux.

They are directly related to Linux complementary applications, which make it a full-fledged and functional representative among operating systems, but unlike them, it is not a single package, but is represented by hundreds of distributions combining GNU programs with the Linux kernel. Information about distributions is published by the DistroWatch website (https://distrowatch.com/?language=RU), which ranks their popularity based on traffic data, providing descriptions of pages with diagrams. It is there that you can get acquainted with everything related to Linux and its components.

What you should pay attention to

When starting a review of the operating system, the first thing to note about it is that it is the best alternative option for switching from Windows, far superior to Microsoft's brainchild. For better understanding advantages of Linux it should be contrasted precisely with the Windows OS, the most common of all. And that's why:

1. Completely free, while Windows has a developed commercial basis, which is why the vast majority of users are forced to use an unstable pirated version. Installing Linux does not require any financial costs, as do the thousands of applications available after switching to it.
2. Another important positive feature of the Finnish OS is its exceptional reliability, not always inherent even licensed Windows. With it, you won’t have to constantly reboot your ungodly glitchy, freezing computer; the correct operation of Linux will then be a pleasant discovery.
3. On Linux, unlike other systems no viruses, but what this is connected with is not known for certain, especially since it does not have “personal” anti-virus programs. Even if a virus penetrates a PC, it does not spread to saved folders, and therefore does not cause any damage to the computer system.
4. Can't be ignored installation features programs, for which you do not need to look for them yourself, most of them on untrustworthy sites infested with viruses. On Linux, everything is much simpler and more convenient, thanks to a reliable repository and its manager, from where it is easy to install any program or application.
5. In the operating system kernel All drivers are installed necessary for adequate operation network card, with which there are big problems, for example, Windows 7, which often does not recognize new devices connected to the PC. On Linux, everything is initialized, installed and starts working almost instantly after connection.
6. One of the main advantages is open source, in Windows it closes immediately after writing the kernel, making it impossible to open it later. His opponent has no difficulties with this, even if he needs to make some changes to the OS.

The distribution area of ​​Linux is wider than that of all operating systems combined. Works great on PC at home and working group, adapts well with most processors, servers, robots, smartphones, handheld devices, anything that supports programmable operations.

Review of the most popular distributions

Thanks to the open source nature of the Linux OS, you can be overwhelmed by having access to hundreds of different distributions, with new ones constantly being added. But in fact, such an abundance is the ability to choose a system to suit the individual characteristics of any gadget. This is especially true for devices that are not particularly powerful, which, after installing a suitable distribution kit, will acquire a full-fledged system, lightweight and functional, containing the necessary software components. For installation you will need just download a suitable ISO image from the official website, burn it to a USB device and start the computer from it.

Linux Mint

In essence, this is a modernized, improved version of the most popular Ubuntu distribution among users, characterized by reliability and versatility. Has a wide range software with elements of proprietary optimizers, open source. Linux Mint is the best option for those who only starts to get acquainted with the new OS, thanks to the external similarity of the graphical interface to that presented in Windows. But if you wish, you can change it at your discretion even at the time of downloading.

Manjaro

A simple and convenient distribution kit, both to install and to use. Thanks to this, it comes into working condition immediately upon completion of the installation process with all the tools necessary to interact with multimedia content. Provides support 32 and 64-bit versions of the system and several cores, including RC. Based on the earlier ArchLinux distribution, the Manjaro repositories automatically synced with it after installation. This provides access to the most current software updates.

Debian

The most multifunctional, the only one among all that supports mixed update system. This allows you to easily switch to other versions, and after installation, individually select the software at your own discretion from the many options offered. Debian repositories contain more than 50,000 packages programs and utilities with 10 supported architectures, the ability to automatically install and uninstall them. Thanks to its qualities, dozens of new distributions have been created on its basis.

Kodi

Not the most multifunctional of distributions, until version 14 it was called HVMS. It has proven itself well as a cross-platform multimedia player that can turn a computer into a developed media center - this is its main advantage. Thanks to these features, Kodi has fast access to manage any types of video and audio files, regardless of where they are located - on a PC or optical disk. Has good software with open source, supporting OS from Linux and Windows to Android and iOS.

Kubuntu

Although it is an independent product created on the basis of Ubuntu, it was and remains part of the overall project. It has a lot in common with its “big brother”: the use of one base, a common repository with packages of identical programs and utilities, a common operating system that is simultaneously updated every six months. But there is in between some differences Kubuntu uses KDE as its graphical environment, while Ubuntu uses the standard GNOME. Kubuntu also supports 32 and 64-bit editions, while Ubuntu only supports 64-bit versions.

Lubuntu

One of the simplest and most convenient projects among all existing ones, not only those included in the Ubuntu family. A distinctive feature of the OS is its extremely light weight, low energy consumption, due to which it consumes very few resources. Its installation is relevant on netbooks and hopelessly outdated computers, or in the case of using USB modems with low Internet traffic speeds. For such devices, Lubuntu is simply irreplaceable, but for more advanced devices, installing it does not make sense, since it does not offer much functionality due to the economy mode.

Ubuntu

It is not unreasonable to refer to most popular from distribution kits all over the world, and as the DistroWatch rating notes, more than half of its users live in the CIS countries. Although it was created based on Debian, externally there is nothing in common between them. Characterized by simplicity during installation and use, with a clear interface, which will be especially useful for beginners. Ubuntu has many pre-installed folders with programs, applications and utilities in its repositories.

Elementary OS

Like many other projects, it is created on the basis of the popular Ubuntu, but in appearance and functionality it is larger similar to OS X. It is noteworthy that the bulk of his software was developed on an individual basis specifically for this project, which makes him so unlike the “head of a glorious family.” For this reason far superior Ubuntu in terms of speed, stability and other criteria, all software components are perfectly compatible with Elementary OS.

Gentoo

Enormously popular among users, it deserves only flattering reviews, but at the same time, its multifunctional capabilities make it extremely complex. The most powerful technology Portage presented in it is distinguished by flexibility, wide configuration options, a wide variety of settings and automatic control pre-installed software. The Gentoo repositories contain more than 10,000 folders with programs, it is possible to connect to third-party resources.

Arch Linux

It's not like any other version of Linux, and in the absence of an official live CD, installing and running it requires doing it through a terminal rather than a website. Arch Linux is unique in many ways in that users individually “assemble” the system for yourself, as you like. In general, the operating system is quite complex, and it is almost impossible for beginners to understand it. The standards are also too high, only 64-bit edition is supported.

OpenSuse

Like Lubuntu, it is most suitable for use on outdated models of gadgets, low-power, using low speed traffic. Otherwise, it is not particularly remarkable, and is not at all interesting to users with modern high-tech devices. Many call it antediluvian and primitive, such a characteristic is not too far from the truth, in OpenSuse even no function automatic update BY. This has to be done in manual mode, after a notification from the official website arrives by email!

Fedora

An ultra-modern multifunctional project, with a large set of tools and wide capabilities. Such seemingly wonderful qualities actually only make working with him more difficult. The concept of an independent project is to build a full-fledged operating system based on free, disparate software elements according to the principle of a puzzle. Some people like it, but for people who are not inclined to make constant drastic changes, it is terribly inconvenient, and Fedora would be the most unsuitable option.

ALT Linux

One of the Linux distributions that have long become a separate branch, produced in Russia, mainly by the Basalt SPO company. In fact, it is thoroughly equipped with software, not particularly demanding, easy to install, easy to manage and navigate. But it’s too “raw” in it many unaccounted for defects and omissions, which is why ALT Linux often crashes, and user reviews are mostly negative.

CentOS/Red Hat

Excellent in all respects, free CentOS has fully proven its worth and relevance today. Most notable high degree of protection, as well as constant stability, and works equally well on all devices without exception. But it should be noted that it is fundamentally different from all the others, in particular in the structure of the commands, as well as the syntax of most of them. But for those who are accustomed to Windows, this will not come as a shock.

Pinguy OS

Belonging to the extensive Ubuntu family, the Pinguy OS operating system has earned the approval of a large number of users for its versatility and at the same time simplicity. It is noted that in addition to having a significant baggage of programs and various applications in repositories, with a correctly selected set of folders it is capable perform any operations inaccessible to most more advanced systems. Convenient and not heavy, supports 32 and 64-bit versions, most preferred when switching from Windows, it contains many familiar functions.

Zorin OS

Despite the fact that, like many other distributions, it is based on the Ubuntu platform, it is not at all similar in appearance, nor in management and navigation. But it has has a lot in common with Windows, especially with regard to the interface, and therefore it is much easier to adapt to it than to others. And the package with programs and offers contains components familiar to the Microsoft OS with Google Chrome in the first line, which is the default browser in Zorin OS. Using the download manager, it's easy to install other native programs, making the transition less cumbersome.

Solus

A functional, developed OS, an excellent option for almost all devices, except those that are not very powerful. Solus only supports 64-bit version, this is its main and only disadvantage, which is compensated by a wide range of tools that provide fast navigation and flexible settings. In addition, it contains a large number of pre-installed programs and components for them, as well as a good manager for working with packages, aimed at both uninstalling outdated applications and searching for and installing new, stable versions.

Puppy Linux

Perhaps one of the best distributions existing today. Is different extreme ease, taking up only 72 MB of space, the same low system requirements, despite the fact that it includes a large number of various applications. Another noticeable difference is its similarity to external characteristics Windows, which is important in the case of Linux. This ratio of compactness and technical capabilities makes Puppy Linux a unique and generally recognized product not only among owners of outdated devices, for whom it is especially important.

Slax

The distribution is surprisingly simple in everything, from installation to configuration of components. Its main advantage over others expressed in additional software with excellent navigation, functionality for using modules other than their intended purpose. In addition, they are autonomous and do not require separate installation as on other operating systems. Slax users can change any images, customize installations, and software packages at their own discretion.

Rosa

Another representative of the Russian Linux line, unlike its criticized brother ALT Linux, received only positive reviews and approval from users. Is different high functionality, large database, technical excellence. But in some ways Rosa is similar to Fedora, the development company uses the same concept and versions operating system, mostly experimental. But we must admit its exceptional convenience, thanks to tools like a single launch point for all applications, a visualization system, and a whole set of useful utilities.

So what to choose

With such quantity and variety, the choice will indeed not be easy; each of those presented has differences, individuality, positive, and sometimes unique characteristics, and not the best sides. This complicates the choice - among them there are few that are similar to each other, even if another was created on the basis of one OS. And also, as often happens with those that are irreplaceable at first glance, there turn out to be much more advanced analogues, or unpleasant sides invisible on the surface. So what should you choose and by what criteria should you choose? There can only be one answer to this question - the choice should depend from technical characteristics, compatible with the capabilities of the device for which it is made, and not according to a shiny wrapper.

Linux for beginners:

1. The best choice for beginners would be Ubuntu, given that it is preferred by experienced users. Equally easy to install, configure, navigate, and subsequently use. The Unity interface is not too different from what you are used to on Windows, so it is easy to navigate.
2. Just as simple and clear Linux Mint, although it does not differ in particular functionality, this is compensated by its accessibility even for the “darkest”. Like Ubuntu, it is one of the closest to Windows in terms of external parameters, making it quite easy to learn.
3. CentOS a little more complicated than the previous ones, is free version one of the few commercial Linux projects (RedHat), along with its simplicity, it is quite functional. Stable software packages pre-installed in it do not allow gross errors on the part of users, due to the security system.
4. OpenSUSE was originally developed as accessible, easy to use, and understandable to all OS users. The default KDE interface environment is reminiscent of Windows, has the same principles of navigation and operation, with minor differences in details, so it is not difficult to get used to.
5. Zorin OS, in addition to having an interface similar to Windows, it has a package of programs and applications familiar as before operating system. And with Wine pre-installed in it, the same programs and components can be easily launched, which is extremely useful and convenient for any beginner.

The lightest:

1. Lubuntu is one of the most lightweight among its kind, but due to its popularity it is widely used on new, powerful computers. There is a completely logical explanation for this - high performance is achieved precisely because of the low weight.
2. LXLE, created on the platform of one of the lightest distributions in the Lubuntu set, far surpasses in all respects its “big brother,” which was criticized even by newcomers. When creating the OS, the main emphasis was on optimization and performance, as well as extremely low weight to achieve this.
3. Lightweight systems do not always achieve this effect, only sacrificing power and flexibility; there are cases when they are not inferior to 64-bit options in these indicators. A striking example ArchBang possessing qualities inaccessible to others. Its main advantages are easy installation, simple settings, ease and simplicity.
4. Like the previous one, Linux Lite, in addition to being quite light, it is also easy to use, multifunctional, as far as possible given its parameters. In addition, it has a beautiful, pleasant interface, a large number of pre-installed applications, and often acts as a gateway when switching from Windows to Linux.
5. KNOPPIX, this is the grandfather of all distributions created for Linux, the oldest of all existing ones, which is strange, and itself exists to this day. Due to the fact that it now runs on the developed, stable Debian platform, it has ample capabilities, a set of applications and is extremely lightweight at the same time.

The fastest:

1. Most notable in this regard Pixel OS, built from scratch using the Debian base as a starting point, nicknamed its side effect, in a good way. The first thing the developers did was free the repositories from “junk”, limiting them to only really necessary packages, which became a resuscitation for old, weak PCs.
2. Fast, effective for weak PCs and low Internet speeds Peppermint OS, belonging to the cloud type, followed the same path. Even at the time of development, its creators immediately abandoned all offline programs that would burden the system. The set of pre-installed packages includes only the most useful and light ones at the same time.
3. Legacy OS, which uses the lightweight Puppy Linux base, tried to become even lighter due to ultra-lightweight components: IceWMw and POX, which is why it is indispensable for low-power PCs. Even on computers with outdated components, it is installed as a 32-bit Live CD, so it works normally even on 256 MB of RAM.
4. Bodhi Linux, uses a special edition for hopelessly outdated 32-bit PCs, more than 15 years old. main feature Bodhi Legacy is that it is implemented on the old Linux v3.2 kernel, this significantly simplifies the OS, which is further optimized for use on very old hardware.
5. One of the lightest and fastest among all is antiX capable of working productively on 256 MB of RAM. It contains lightweight desktops and managers in its folders and packages; there is an option with only the applications needed to launch and create a desktop.

Russian distributions:

1. Astra Linux was created for defense government structures, this is the key to its reliability and high functional qualities. It is not unreasonably called the best among Russian distributions for its security and high level of protection when transferring any personal data, although it has long been used exclusively for peaceful purposes.
2. Rosa Linux the best not only among Russian, but among all OS for Linux, thanks to high-tech development options that are useful and convenient for ordinary users. Many people talk about “closed” versions designed to encrypt data, but this is probably another myth; only public versions are known.
3. Simply Linux quite popular among users from the CIS countries due to its ease and accessibility. It is not demanding on resources, so it can be installed even on computers whose age has exceeded 10 years. The graphical shell is xfce, which most eloquently proves the ease and simplicity of the OS.
4. Calculate is one of the most unusual among Russian versions based on Linux. It is distinguished by its work on the Gentoo platform, which is complex and incomprehensible in installation and subsequent use. But unlike it, with Calculate you don’t need to understand these intricacies - everything happens automatically.
5. Alt Linux is called a pensioner among Russian operating systems for Linux. During its existence, many distribution kits were created on its basis, which in itself speaks of its relevance. Although it must be admitted that despite the updates it is very outdated, and the OS developed according to its model is much better.

For home PC:

1. Debian is deservedly considered the best in this regard, although there is not much difference on which device to use it. It is functional, quite powerful, lightweight, although not essential in the case of home PCs; high loading speed has its advantages and positive aspects.
2. Elementary OS this is the best alternative to Windows; its external similarity makes it more convenient and understandable, which is important in the case of home computers, which are mostly used as a work tool, and not for fun. Its speed characteristics will be an additional incentive for installation.
3. Deepin A very interesting Chinese development, although not widely used, has managed to make itself known loudly. It contains a lot of programs that you won’t find anywhere else, they work most effectively on home PCs, they are stable and high speed.
4. OpenSuse far superior to basic Debian, considered the best for PCs - a large set of programs, a unique control center, the greatest advantages of the OS. It is convenient for use on home computers, thanks to good navigation that allows you to quickly go to the right place.
5. And here Antergos, as many users note, there is simply no equal, it is very similar to Manjaro, which is why the two distributions are called Siamese twins. But he has similarities with others from whom he borrowed the best qualities. It works well on any device, and highlighting it as the best for PC would not be entirely correct.

For laptop

1. Ubuntu and here it occupies a leading position, for the simple reason that laptops use modems to connect to the network, and Ubuntu is stable with low traffic.
2. The same can be said about Debian, lightweight, fast, stable for any connection, popular among operating system users.
3. CentOS not as popular as the previous ones, but due to its individual characteristics, it is best used for a laptop.
4. RHEL was originally developed as a kind of appendage for laptops, so it takes into account all the features of a narrow specialization.
5. Concerning Kali, then in this case, only one thing can be noted - it was not created for a laptop, but on the contrary, this is the only environment where its stability is maintained.

To summarize, we can add only one thing - any search will be crowned with success only when you know what to look for. And the answer to the question: which Linux is better, has one answer option - one that is suitable for all parameters individually.

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