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injunrob9
Lv 5
injunrob9 asked in Computers & InternetOther - Computers · 1 decade ago

Which Linux distribution that is most like Windows for a total noob?

OK, I'm fairly smart. I'm also lazy. I only know Windows and want to switch to running Linux (maybe). I've decided that a good way to start is by using/trying a live cd version of Linux before committing fully, but which? It should be able to run windows based programs and connect to the 'net via wireless USB network adapter. I've seen a few versions that are ultra small/compact. I think that I would want just the opposite. I want maximum functionality and options. These add-ons/plugins should come pre-installed and be pre-configured and work flawlessly. I don't want much, do I !!! Anywayz,....does such a version exist? So far, it looks like it's SLAX Kill Bill Edition 5.1.8.1.

Given enough time, I'll probably figure it out myself. Just hoping I someone could jump start education in Linux.

THANKS.

6 Answers

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  • Din
    Lv 6
    1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    The trick is that getting Windows programs to run on Linux is often a challenge all by itself. Some can be shoe-horned into working, others can't. In nearly all cases it's a much more complicated process than it is in Windows.

    Some good live distros are Knoppix, Fedora Live (the full install is huge), and Ubuntu.

    But Linux is not geared toward the lazy user. If you want an OS that requires little understanding and effort on your part, stick with Windows. Linux isn't hard, but it's definitely not as easy as Windows.

    Source(s): http://www.knoppix.org/ -- Knoppix http://fedoraproject.org/en/ -- Fedora I'll leave finding Ubuntu to you since I've never really liked it much myself.
  • reformer81
    1 decade ago

    I would highly recommend trying LinuxMint 6. It does not try to copy Windows, however; although it is pretty self-explanatory... especially for someone that is somewhat computer savvy.

    Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu (which is currently the most popular and most-supported Linux distribution available), but it adds all of the restricted software that Ubuntu leaves out. Linux Mint will play all your mp3s, videos, flash, etc., right out of the box and wireless drivers are usually pretty good right away as well.

    Keep in mind, however, that Linux in general is NOT for the overly lazy. There WILL be some learning required, but it's usually very rewarding. If all you want to do is surf the web and answer emails and such, then Linux Mint will be perfect for you with very little addition research needed.

    Source(s): http://www.linuxmint.com/
  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    Try out Linux Mint! It's pretty much an easier version of Ubuntu (Which is one of the most famous Distros). All you need to do is download the .iso image from http://linuxmint.com/ and burn it to a CD. After that, your LiveCD is ready to go!

    So depending on when you start downloading it, you could be running Linux Mint live in under 2 hours! With hardly any work involved. (I think the .iso is somwhere around 500-600MB big.)

    Happy Easter! :-)

  • Linux Mint 11
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    Take a look at Linux Mint 6 (Main Edition) its easy to install easy to use and has much of the software you are likely to need preinstalled.

    Install it or RUN IT LIVE !

    Linux Mint 6 Release notes

    http://www.linuxmint.com/rel_felicia.php

    Linux Mint 6 Download

    http://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=31

    Linux Mint 6 installation tutorial (if you like it)

    http://www.howtoforge.com/the-perfect-desktop-linu...

    You download the ISO. image of Linux Mint 6 then you need to create a Bootable CD from the ISO. This can easily be done using Nero Burning ROM or similar software. Linux Mint 6 can also be run straight from the LiveCD you have created without touching your Hard Drive.

    Screenshot of my custom LiveDVD of Mint 6 running Beryl 0.2.1

    http://s266.photobucket.com/albums/ii256/Linux_Ubu...

    Remember you can RUN IT LIVE !

    LUg.

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  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    if u want something easy get GOS LINUX and if u a lot of support and being on the edge get ubuntu last version

  • cobratango22
    1 decade ago

    Try Ubuntu :O thats what I tried learning from windows, but I had some issues with drivers and did not get the Special Effects I wanted out of it.

    Hope you have better luck :)

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