Linux is a powerful, flexible operating system used everywhere from smartphones to supercomputers. Unlike Windows or macOS, Linux comes in many different "distributions" (or "distros"), each designed for different users and purposes.

This guide will walk you through the process of choosing, installing, and getting comfortable with your first Linux distribution.

What is Linux?

Linux is a free and open-source operating system kernel first released by Linus Torvalds in 1991. When people refer to "Linux," they often mean a complete operating system built around this kernel, which includes system utilities, applications, and a graphical user interface. These complete systems are known as Linux distributions or "distros."

What is a Linux Distribution?

A Linux distribution (distro) is a complete operating system package built around the Linux kernel. It includes:

• The Linux kernel
• System libraries and utilities
• Package management system
• Desktop environment
• Pre-installed applications

Each distribution has its own philosophy, release cycle, package management system, and default software selection.

Why are there so many different Linux distributions?

Linux's open-source nature allows anyone to modify and redistribute it, leading to hundreds of distributions, each with specific goals:

• User Focus: Some target beginners (Ubuntu, Mint), others experienced users (Arch, Gentoo)
• Purpose-Built: Some are optimized for specific uses like security (Kali), privacy (Tails), or minimal resource usage (Puppy Linux)
• Philosophy: Some strictly adhere to free software principles (PureOS), while others include proprietary drivers and software for convenience
• Technology Choices: Distributions differ in package managers, release models, init systems, and desktop environments

This diversity gives users the freedom to choose a system that perfectly matches their needs and values.

What are Desktop Environments?

A Desktop Environment (DE) is a collection of software that provides a complete graphical user interface for your Linux system. Common desktop environments include:

• GNOME: Modern, clean interface with minimal customization options; used by Ubuntu and Fedora
• KDE Plasma: Highly customizable with a Windows-like interface; used by Kubuntu and openSUSE
• Xfce: Lightweight and traditional interface; used by Xubuntu and Linux Lite
• MATE: Traditional desktop based on GNOME 2; used by Ubuntu MATE
• Cinnamon: Modern but traditional interface; default in Linux Mint
• LXDE/LXQt: Extremely lightweight for older hardware; used by Lubuntu

Many Linux distributions offer versions with different desktop environments, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your preferences and hardware capabilities.

What's the difference between rolling release and point release distributions?

Point Release Model:

• Releases occur at scheduled intervals (e.g., every 6 months or 2 years)
• Each version has a defined support period
• Major upgrades require a significant update process
• Examples: Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian
• Generally more stable and predictable

Rolling Release Model:

• Continuous updates instead of version releases
• Software is updated as soon as new versions are available
• No need for major version upgrades
• Always running the latest software
• Examples: Arch Linux, openSUSE Tumbleweed, Manjaro
• Requires more frequent maintenance

What are package managers?

Package managers are software tools that automate the process of installing, upgrading, configuring, and removing software packages. Different Linux distributions use different package management systems:

• APT (Advanced Package Tool): Used by Debian, Ubuntu, and their derivatives
  sudo apt update
sudo apt install package-name
• DNF/YUM: Used by Fedora, RHEL, and CentOS
  sudo dnf install package-name
• Pacman: Used by Arch Linux and its derivatives
  sudo pacman -S package-name
• Zypper: Used by openSUSE
  sudo zypper install package-name

Package managers handle dependencies automatically, making software installation much simpler than on other operating systems.

For beginners, we recommend starting with one of these user-friendly distributions:

Browse the Disktro homepage to explore all available distributions.

Once you've chosen a distribution, you need to download the ISO file. On Disktro, this is simple:

1. Find your chosen distribution on the homepage
2. Click the download button to get the latest version
3. Choose between:
   • FULL ISO (recommended for beginners) - Contains everything needed for offline installation
   • NET ISO - Smaller download that requires internet during installation
4. Make sure to select the right architecture:
   • x86_64/AMD64 - For most desktop/laptop computers
   • ARM - For Raspberry Pi, some Chromebooks, and Apple M-series Macs

Remember to verify your download using the SHA256 checksum provided on each card.

To install Linux, you'll need to create a bootable USB drive. You'll need:

• A USB drive (8GB or larger)
• A USB creation tool

Recommended USB Creation Tools:

Important: Creating a bootable USB will erase all data on the drive. Back up any important files first!

Before installing Linux, take these important preparatory steps:

Backup Your Data

Always back up your important files before installing a new operating system. You can use an external drive or cloud storage.

Installation Options

You have several options for installing Linux:

• Dual-Boot: Install Linux alongside your existing OS (Windows/macOS)
• Replace Existing OS: Completely replace your current operating system
• Virtual Machine: Run Linux inside your current OS (good for testing)

For Dual-Boot Systems

If you plan to dual-boot:

• Create free space by shrinking your existing partition (Windows Disk Management or macOS Disk Utility)
• Disable Fast Startup in Windows
• Disable BitLocker or other disk encryption if enabled

Booting from USB

1. Insert your bootable USB drive
2. Restart your computer
3. Access the boot menu by pressing a key during startup:
   • Common keys: F12, F10, F2, Esc, or Del (varies by computer)
   • Mac: Hold Option (⌥) key when you hear the startup chime
4. Select your USB drive from the boot menu

Installation Process

While each distribution has a slightly different installer, most follow this general process:

1. Select your language, timezone, and keyboard layout
2. Choose whether to download updates during installation (recommended if you have internet)
3. Select your installation type:
   • "Install alongside" for dual-boot
   • "Erase disk and install" to replace your current OS
   • "Something else" for manual partitioning (advanced)
4. Create your user account and password
5. Wait for installation to complete
6. Restart when prompted

Note: For specific installation guidance, check your chosen distribution's official documentation.

After installing Linux, here are the first things you should do:

1. Update Your System

Open the terminal and run:

2. Install Additional Drivers

Some distributions provide a "Driver Manager" or "Software & Updates" tool where you can install proprietary drivers for graphics cards and other hardware.

3. Install Essential Software

Most distributions come with an app store (like "Software Center" or "Discover") where you can install:

• Web browsers (Firefox, Chrome, Brave)
• Office applications (LibreOffice)
• Media players (VLC)
• Cloud storage clients (Dropbox, OneDrive)

4. Customize Your Desktop

Explore the system settings to customize your desktop environment, including:

• Themes and colors
• Desktop background
• Fonts
• Keyboard shortcuts

Learning some basic terminal commands will help you get more out of Linux:

When you need help with a command, use: