Don’t get me wrong. I love Linux and FOSS. I have been using and installing distros on my own since I was 12. Now that I’m working in tech-related positions, after the Reddit migration happened, etc. I recovered my interest in all the Linux environment. I use Ubuntu as my main operating system in my Desktop, but I always end up feeling very limited. There’s always software I can’t use properly (and not just Windows stuff), some stuff badly configured with weird error messages… last time I was not able to even use the apt command. Sometimes I lack time and energy for troubleshooting and sometimes I just fail at it.
I usually end up in need of redoing a fresh install until it breaks up again. Maybe Linux is not good for beginners working full time? Maybe we should do something like that Cisco course that teaches you the basic commands?
I’m looking forward to owning my computer, especially as Microsoft claws away more of my rights season by season. But WTF am I getting myself into when I make the jump? Is it possible to own my computer and have an easy to understand OS?
I hope I’m not fucking myself when I try to make the switch, but when the first response to it’s got problems is don’t look a gift horse in the mouth then yeah, it makes me a bit worried I’m going to be left out in the elements on my own by a community with the attitude of COD gamers.
I believe it is possible to have an easy-to-understand OS, it all really depends on your choice of distro and desktop environment. I would recommend downloading a distro that comes pre-installed with the desktop environment you prefer (you can install other desktops after the fact, but a preloaded “spin” of a distro will make things easy to understand at first.)
I think the ‘toxicity’ of the linux community is, in my experience anyways, totally overblown. Yes, if you post a question you might get a few snarky, entitled responses, but thats the same for any community. For every troll there are many more people willing to help you out.
For an easy start on Linux, I would recommend a “beginner” distro such as:
Example: <distro name> (<desktop environment>)
I think new users are often intimidated by how much there is to learn about Linux, but I assure you all of that will come with time. Some people also fear using the terminal, but I would strongly suggest learning how to at least:
from the terminal.
I hope that answers some questions, if not or I just confused you more, ask as many questions of me as you need.