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Improve your initial impression of Linux by learning more about the most common mistakes new users make.
Switching to a new operating system is a completely different experience. As the interface and functionality change, you may need some time to explore and understand the new environment in which you are working.
Linux is more of a command-line-based operating system than Windows and macOS, which rely primarily on a graphical user interface or GUI. This is one of the reasons why new Linux users often get confused and make beginner mistakes that ultimately affect their experience.
To get the most out of your new Linux device, here are 10 myths you should avoid as a Linux novice.
Mistake 1. Avoid using the terminal
Terminal is a core Linux utility. Once you understand it, it is the most important and convenient tool for all major operations in the operating system.
For example, in Windows, you can perform most functions through the GUI, such as updating the system or installing software. But in Linux, you'd better perform these tasks with the help of the terminal.
You may be inclined to avoid this command-line feature at first because you are used to GUI-based systems. Another reason could be the misconception that Terminal is hard to use and can be frustrating with its complex commands and fairly basic interface.
However, in reality, it is more efficient and powerful than GUI-based systems if you try and learn how to use it properly. Not only will you save time, but you will also enjoy a premium user experience.
Error 2. Trying to run an EXE file
EXE is the default format for executable files on Windows and MS-DOS systems. You can use these files for software installation. The bad news is that these files are not suitable to run on Linux.
The process of downloading and installing applications on Linux is different. Before downloading packages from the Internet, you must check for the correct extension according to your distribution. It can be Ubuntu's DEB or Fedora's RPM. You can execute EXE files on Linux, but this requires some configuration on your part.
Mistake 3. Frequent use of Root
Linux hides sysadmin-level details by default to ensure privacy and security. Administrator-level access to a Linux system is called root. Most functions, such as shutdown and restart, do not require root privileges. So you don't need to use sudo (superuser do) before each command.
If you use root a lot, you can damage your operating system. This is because root grants applications access to sensitive system-level files. Any changes in these files can crash the entire operating system. So it's best to use root only when necessary.
Mistake 4. Choosing an inappropriate distribution
There are various distributions of Linux that offer different features and experiences. Some distributions are specific to certain tasks, such as security auditing, while others are generic. Choosing the right distribution is the most confusing step for Linux beginners.
Before installing a distribution, you should always do some research and compare with other distributions. In order to find the best distribution for you, it is important to know your usage needs and preferences.
Mistake 5. Looking for installation files instead of repositories
As mentioned above, you need an EXE file to install software on Windows. You might follow the same practice on Linux to install applications. While you can find installation files for Linux applications, a better approach is to use repositories.
On Linux, you install applications from repositories. Installation files are saved, published, secured, and maintained in a repository on a remote server.
The benefit of installing apps through these repositories is that you don't have to manually find, download, and run installation files. You can simply enter a package manager command in the terminal and it will automatically download and install the files from the repository.
You can also check out Snap and Flatpak for quick and easy application installation.
Mistake 6. Using Wine instead of trying to apply alternatives
If you switch from Windows to Linux, you have to get used to the features and software it offers. You can use Wine to run Windows software and games on Linux, and it helps new users get used to Linux.
However, relying too much on Wine is not appropriate for a number of reasons. First, applications running on Wine are less stable and efficient. Second, there are excellent open source alternatives available for almost all popular Windows applications.
These alternatives are completely free most of the time. So, avoid relying on Wine to run Windows software and fully immerse yourself in the Linux experience.
Mistake 7. Thinking it's absolutely safe
Most users switch to Linux because it is more secure and privacy friendly. The Linux system architecture makes it difficult for third-party files to access superuser privileges and is more secure than Windows.
With this reputation, you may be completely indifferent to security, thinking the system is secure enough against any threat. But this is not the case, as threats and viruses evolve as technology evolves.
So being too carefree about security is a serious mistake you shouldn't make after switching to Linux. Avoid downloading suspicious torrents and files to stay safe.
Related: 6 Reasons Why Linux Doesn't Need Antivirus or Firewall https://www.linuxmi.com/linux-not-use-anti-virus-software-or-firewall.html
Mistake 8. Thinking Linux and Ubuntu are the same
If you've only recently learned about Linux, you might think that Linux and Ubuntu are the same. But in reality, they are two different things. Linux is the kernel that helps the operating system (basically software) to interact with the hardware, while Ubuntu is a Linux distribution, which means it is an operating system based on the Linux kernel.
Since Linux is open source, you can easily customize it to create new versions. Distros such as Ubuntu and Manjaro are operating systems made on top of Linux with custom features.
Mistake 9. Running any command you find online
The Linux terminal is a powerful tool that can potentially grant superuser access to applications. It is important to realize the importance of using terminal commands to avoid security incidents.
You must have come across various commands on the web for installing apps or updates. Of course it's impossible to memorize all commands without referring to guides on the web, but running any command you find on the web can be dangerous as it may contain security threats to your system.
Even a single-line command can take advantage of your PC and the accounts stored on it. So it's best to make sure to only search for commands on reputable sites to stay safe.
Mistake 10. Sharing Linux file formats with Windows users
Sharing Linux files with Windows users is a frustrating mistake you should avoid. You need to understand that Linux and Windows are different in functionality and environment.
File extensions are also different for Linux and Windows software. For example, if you use an MS Office alternative on Linux to edit text, files created in that application may not convert well in MS Word, and vice versa. The same goes for almost every other Linux application replacement for popular Windows software.
While these alternatives do their best to help you export files in formats compatible with other operating systems, you're bound to encounter exceptions.
Mistakes are the key to learning Linux
If you're just transitioning to Linux or planning to switch to Linux, these points will save you a lot of time.
Linux newbies are often indoctrinated with a lot of misconceptions about Linux that are simply not correct. It is critical to clear these misconceptions before installing a Linux-based operating system.
From: Linux fan
link: https://www.linuxmi.com/linux-novice.html
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