How can I determine if Linux is suitable for you?

If you are tired of Windows, want to extend the life of the old PC, or want to use an OS for your child, Linux will satisfy you.

Key advantages of open-source Linux:

-- Free;

-- Most Linux software is free of charge;

-- Linux runs fast and low, which is the preferred choice for old computers;

-- No virus, no spyware, no advertisement software;

-- You can choose a variety of user interface styles, some of which are similar to Windows XP/7.

Sounds good, right? No matter what you do with Linux OS, you need to consider some important factors. This article teaches you how to determine if Linux is suitable for you.

1. software compatibility issues

Check your current programs. Microsoft Office? Linux has the corresponding OpenOffice. Outlook? Linux has Evolution. Photoshop? Linux has a popular GIMP.

In other words, most common Windows programs and Linux have their own counterparts, and most of them have similar interfaces and file compatibility. For example, if you use Chrome, you will find that the Linux part-time job is exactly the same. As long as you log on to your Google account, all bookmarks and passwords will be synchronized immediately.

However, many Windows apps do not have the Linux version. For example, if you use iTunes to synchronize an iPhone or iPad, but there is no corresponding Linux version. If you use Spotify or SugarSync, there is no corresponding Linux client to play music or synchronize files.

There is a good solution: Wine. Wine is a free tool that allows you to run some Windows programs in Linux. It may not solve all software compatibility issues, but it is worth studying.

2. hardware compatibility

Although the current version of Linux has built-in drivers to support a variety of video cards, network adapters and peripheral devices, but there is no guarantee that you will be able to use your printer, your second monitor, your fitness belt (which may be a software problem), and so on.
The only real answer is: Check whether hardware manufacturers provide Linux drivers that support their products. If not, go to the Linux forum and check the solution you have found (or created. You may find it, but it may be bad luck.

3. learning curves exist

Linux has many different releases. You need to do some research to find out your favorite one.

Have you heard of Sudo? Do you know the difference between Debian and Ubuntu? Linux operations may look like Windows, but they have a lot of complexity. Especially when you study settings in depth and try to run the above Wine simulator. I am a very technically proficient computer user, but I am stuck several times in finding basic Linux tasks.

The good news is that there is enough support available. The bad news is that these available support is almost entirely on Network forums, and finding the right one may be a challenge. In addition, there are many language versions (Driver Installation, Sudo, and so on), which adds difficulties. So you should be prepared.

4. You will have to give up the game

Okay, that's an exaggeration. Linux has many games, many of which are excellent. In fact, Steam has a whole part dedicated to them. But most of them are independent games, so you can't play BATMAN: The Origins of argan, biohazard: Unlimited, Call of Duty, tomb shadows, or other popular games.

Finally, if you are already an active Linux User and even use it as your main operating system, leave a message below to share your thoughts with us.