Do Not "Switch To Linux"
Using Linux for your first time can be very exciting. You suddenly gain access to a wealth of customization options, all the free and open-source software you could ever want or need, and access to a strong community of (sometimes overly-)enthusiastic Linux users. But before you dive headfirst into this new world, there's an important consideration I'd like to advise you on. It boils down to this: don't "switch to Linux" on your one and only computer. Don't dual-boot it and don't bother with getting a second hard drive. In essence, do not touch your current working computer, no matter what operating system it's running. Leave it fully operational and invest in a cheap second computer instead. You can thank me later!
The Importance of a Fully Working Primary Computer:
Your primary computer is your lifeline for everyday tasks, from browsing the web to staying connected with friends and family. Here's why it's crucial to keep it fully functional:
- Reliability for Essential Tasks: When you first begin to use Linux, there's a non-trivial learning curve. Having a fully working primary computer ensures you can still accomplish your daily tasks without interruption, when (not if) you encounter issues with Linux.
- Access to Help: Searching for Linux help, tutorials, and troubleshooting guides is much easier when you have a stable and reliable system. Imagine trying to fix a problem on Linux when you can't even access the internet!
- Fallback Option: If something goes wrong during your Linux setup or experimentation, you'll need a fallback option. A working primary computer ensures you're never completely stuck.
Why a Second Computer is a Better Idea:
Rather than risking your main computer, investing in a second device dedicated to Linux experimentation is a much wiser choice. Here are some great options to consider:
- Used Computers from eBay: Buying a used laptop or desktop from eBay is a cost-effective solution. Many older computers are still perfectly capable of running Linux and can be found at a fraction of the cost of newer computers. I've purchased many used servers from this seller over the years.
- Raspberry Pi 5: The Raspberry Pi 5 is an affordable and versatile option. It's a great way to get started with Linux, and there's a vast community of Raspberry Pi enthusiasts to help you along the way.
- Modern Mini-Computers: Mini-computers or other small form factor PCs are perfect for running Linux. They are compact, energy-efficient, and powerful enough for most Linux tasks.
Benefits of a Second Device:
- Dedicated Environment: Having a second device means you can dedicate it entirely to Linux. This allows you to experiment freely without worrying about disrupting your main workflow. This eliminates a whole class of problems you would eventually experience if you decided to try a dual-boot setup, for example. If you're not already familiar with Linux and the command line, debugging a broken boot loader will be very painful.
- Learning and Experimentation: With a second device, you can take your time to learn and explore Linux at your own pace. You can try different distributions, test various software, and get a feel for how Linux works without any pressure. You can ramp up your Linux knowledge at your own pace, as time permits. It's a long journey to any level of mastery.
- Backup and Recovery: If you make a mistake or something goes wrong, your main computer is always there to help you find solutions, communities, and others who have already worked through your exact problem.
Good luck on your Linux journey!