Switching from Windows to Linux can be intimidating, especially for Windows users venturing into the world of an open source operating system.
Preparing the operating system for the switch from Windows to Linux
Before you switch your operating system from Windows to Linux, there are some basic decisions and preparations that need to be made to ensure that the transition goes smoothly and without any data loss.
- Choose the right Linux distribution: For beginners, Linux distributions such as Ubuntu or Linux Mint are recommended. Both distributions are known for their ease of use, extensive software sources and a large support community.
- Back up your data: Before you start any installation, back up your important data. Back up to an external hard drive or to the cloud, and don't forget to back up browser bookmarks and game saves as well.
- Create a bootable USB drive: Download the ISO file of your chosen distribution and use tools like Rufus or Etcher to create a bootable USB stick. Make sure the USB stick has at least 4 GB of free space. Use the stick to test Linux in what is known as “live” mode before installing.
- Check your hardware: Make sure your hardware is fully supported, especially if you use special peripherals like printers or older graphics cards. Many Linux distributions offer pre-installed drivers, but a quick check can avoid potential complications.
Installation and first steps with Linux
Once the preparations are complete, you can start with the installation. Here, too, you should pay attention to a few details to ensure smooth use later.
- Boot from USB stick: After setting up the bootable stick, restart your PC and select the stick as the boot device in the BIOS. A menu opens where you can either test or install Linux.
- Partition your hard drive: Decide whether you want to install Linux alongside Windows or replace Windows completely. A dual-boot installation lets you choose between the two operating systems when you start. Choose automatic partitioning if you are unsure.
- Creating a user account: During installation, you specify a user name and password. You will need this information to log in and install additional software.
- Install important software: Many Linux distributions come with pre-installed software, but you have to install certain applications manually. For example, LibreOffice replaces Microsoft Office, while GIMP can replace Photoshop as an image editing program.