Easiest Way To Experience Linux

Many people are afraid to take the step to try out a Linux variant on their PCS. To many it seems daunting and they think there is going to be a huge learning curve. However, there are two simple techniques that allow you to try out most of the benefits of a Linux distribution without having to install over their current OS.

The first method is the easiest and the best way to experience Linux, and that is with what is known as a Live CD. You simply go to the website of the Linux variant you want to try (such as the Pinguy OS website) and download the Operating Systems disc image which is available in the download section (this will usually be a .iso file). All you need to do then is burn the .iso as an image using your favourite burning software. It is highly recommended that you burn at the lowest possible speed to make sure that the copy is 100% accurate. Once copied, place in your CD drive, turn off your PC and then turn your PC back on again.

Once your PC re-starts, you will notice it running before your Operating System kicks-in. Do not panic at this point, as it is not installing anything onto your hard-drive. Usually, the disc will then bring up a menu which allows you to try the Live CD or install the Operating System plus a few other options. Simply select to try out the OS as a Live CD and let the program do its thing. Moments later you will be have a working version of your Linux distribution of choice! Feel free to play with it to your hearts content! Remember though, that it will be slightly slower due to it accessing the CD, however, it will give you a good idea of how the Linux distro works.

The second method is to download the .iso file and run it in a virtual machine. This seems to be some peoples main choice of playing with Linux distro's, however, I have rarely got it to be as reliable as using a Live CD. You will have the speed, and most of the time the general look, however I find this method of experiencing Linux to be the least reliable.

Once you have tried out your Linux distro of choice, you may not want a complete re-install and want to run it side-by-side with Windows... just in case. This is also possible, and all Ubuntu variants offer a side-by-side install. This is how I first experienced the wonders of Linux, however I soon found Linux was taking more and more of my computer time and now I solely use Pinguy OS on all my PCs and Laptops.

One final word. Whichever way you decide to try out Linux, just play around with it and have fun!

Mark Adams
19 August 2011