This page will guide you through steps to research linux options and begin to parallely use or convert to Linux.

  1. Research Linux and opensource software and understand how it is developed and funded.

  2. Outline a path to test Linux and open source software.  Choose your best option.

    • Boot your existing machine to a USB with Linux live ISOs.
      • Single ISO USB setup
        • This is the standard for doing a live ISO on a machine.
        • Limited to only one Linux distribution per USB stick.
      • Multiple ISO (Ventoy)
      • Benefits
        • No changes to your windows machine.
        • Easy to setup on a USB drive, preferred to be a 120 GIG or above to allow for ISOs
        • Can load multiple ISOs (file that contains Operating Systems)
      • Cons
        • Will revert to default settings each time it loads. IE cannot load software and utilize next time you boot to the operating system
        • Can be a little slower response due to USB device speed.
        • Generally Not Persistent. Meaning changes you make while utilizing the live image are not saved.  Possible with advance knowledge however not recommended for new users of Linux.
    • Create a Linux virtual Machine using Virtual Machine Software on your existing device.
      • Benefits
        • Can install software and utilize the same as if loaded on physical machine
      • Cons
        • Takes up hard drive space on your existing machine.
        • Only works if your system can handle virtualization
      • Virtual Machine Software:

  3. Install Software on Linux Virtual Machine:

    • Use the below options to find and install opensource software. Software install process is same for OS running on hardware or virtual machine. Use these install options to get a list of your required open source software.
    • Software centers:
      • Linux distributions has software stores where you can download software similar to iPhone and Android stores.  Depending on your software sources the software can be installed into the system directly from repositories or more sandbox option
    • Software Source Options:
      • Flatpack: A utility for software deployment and package management on Linux that allows applications to run in a sandboxed environment, providing isolation from the rest of the system.  And can be installed via the distribution application store.
      • Snap: Similar to Flatpack however developed by Conical for Ubuntu and can be specified Ubuntu.
      • Appimage:  This is a standalone application that can be launched by launching and similar to a standalone .exe on Windows.Software install Options Overview
    • Package Managers:
      • This application allows for software installs as well as review installed applications and resolve conflicts. Example on Debian based systems is Synaptic package manager.
  4. Install Linux Operating System on physical Desktop, Laptop, etc.
    • Once you have set on the Linux distribution and needed Linux capable software you can load Linux directly onto your Laptop or Desktop. If looking to purchase a new system you can purchase a laptop or desktop with Linux installed.
  5. Install software on Desktop, Laptop, Tablet running Linux Operating System.
    1. This section has all the same options as #3 (Install software on Linux Virtual Machine)
  6. Use Windows OS and Windows only software on Virtual Machine:
    • You can utilize a few options on Linux to run Windows /  windows applications. The overall goal is not require windows however this is not always possible if you have some very specific use cases.  This can
      • Virtual machine options
      • WINE
        • Requires a lot of setup and numerous programs do not work on WINE.
      • Dual Boot:
        • It is not advisable to dual boot as Microsoft Windows 11 causes issues with dual boot especially on a single HDD/SSD. It is possible if multiple drives are installed however not guaranteed.
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