How to Move from Windows to Linux

For a newbie in computer, when all you know about computers are about browsing the Net and watching videos on YouTube, changing your operating system may seem a little bit farfetched. However, there are several reasons why ditching your Windows away in favor of Linux may work wonders for you.

For one, Linux is compatible for people who multitask in their computers all the time and tend to express frustration whenever their PC crashes. It is not because you are putting too much work on your computer, but blame your Windows operating system for not being able to catch up with your work pace.

Linux has a capability of Windows NT with over $5,000 worth of software add-on at little or no cost at all. It is more stable and requires less powerful hardware to perform the same tasks you do with Windows. And as you use your Linux computer more often, the more you appreciate its portability, flexibility, and unsurpassed computing power.

But you have a problem: How do you switch from Windows to Linux? Here are the procedures.

Choosing a Linux Distro

Since Linux is open-source, it is distributed by a variety of companies. The only difference is that each Linux distribution (or distro for short) has a different set of applications consisting of assorted free and open-source software for various programs. There is most likely one distro that appeals to you most. New users may want to try PCLinuxOS, Mandriva, or Ubuntu.

Trying the "Live CD"

Do not worry about installing Linux without having an idea how it works. You can try the "Live CD" versions of your chosen distro first, which are available on their websites so that you can burn them to a CD, and let Linux run without touching your Windows installation. This allows you to test out some of the functionality Linux offers.

Get acquainted with Linux through Windows

There are actually several Linux applications that you can use over at Windows, such as Inkscape and GIMP. This makes you get used to the kind of applications that are available on Linux.

Back up all important data

Once you have decided to switch to Linux, do not forget to back-up all your important data. Remember that changing your operating system may cause all your files and programs to be deleted as well.

Install your Linux

You can either boot your Linux from your installation CD or, in some distros, directly from the Live CD. Once installed, part your hard drive into two: one side containing your current Windows operating system, the other containing Linux. This can easily be done with various partitioning tools like Paragon Magic, Paragon Partition Manager among others.

Parting your hard drive is a small step in learning the ropes of using Linux without having to delete your Windows... yet. Take note that Windows Vista comes with a partition tool of its own.

Do some dual-booting

Once your Linux is completely installed, choose which operating system to boot into. This gives you something to fall back on just in case something goes wrong.

Once you are comfortable with Linux, wipe Window off

As time goes on you realize that you are using Linux more and booting into Windows less often. Make sure that you are making the most of the "community" help available from most distros, as well as its support page or FAQ. Once you are comfortable with Linux, wipe your Windows partition completely, and you would probably never look back.