Choosing a Linux distribution can be a very daunting and confusing task for novice users. It is especially difficult to choose your first Linux distribution, since such users are just going to migrate from Windows and do not yet know which distributions exist and how they differ from each other.
In this article, we'll take a look at the best linux distributions for a beginner. I am not highlighting any distribution, this is just a list, so it makes no difference where your favorite distribution is. They are all the best.
You already know that trying a Linux distro is very easy. Just download the image, write it to USB stick and boot from it. You don't even need to install anything on your computer disk. So you can try all the distributions listed below, and only then install the linux you like on your computer. Now let's move on to the list.
Ubuntu is the most popular Linux distribution. Even if he is not at the very top of the popularity list among experienced users, then among beginners this is definitely the most popular distribution. This is the only distribution that even non-Linux users know about. It is based on Debian and has a regular release cycle.
Peculiarities:
- There is an easy and simple installer;
- As user interface the default is Unity. She is quite different from the appearance of the worker. windows desktop but will not be very difficult to master;
- After installing the system, you get a wide range of software, among which there are Libreoffice, Firefox, Thunderbird, as well as a few simple games, you can also enable installation flash plugin and codecs;
- Ubuntu's popularity makes it exist for it great amount software, not only in official repositories, but also in third-party PPAs, and even on the Internet;
- There is also a huge amount of documentation and articles on setting up this system available on the Internet. If you encounter any problem, you can try searching the internet and you will most likely find a solution.
2. Linux Mint
Linux MInt is another popular Linux distribution for beginners based on Ubuntu. You get the same basic Ubuntu system, because of this, it is also popular with new users. You may try Linux Mint if you don't like Unity and want more default software.
Peculiarities:
- Together with the system, not only is installed by default software with open source code but also adds proprietary software such as various codecs and plugins that provide flash work and mp3 as well as DVD playback;
- The default desktop environment is Cinnamon or MATE;
- Linux Mint developers are developing their system update software, Reserve copy and other service tasks. The Cinnamon environment is also their development.
3. CentOS
CentOS is the free version of the commercial Linux distribution of Red Hat Enterprise Linux. CentOS is developed by the community. They take the source code for Red Hat Enterprise Linux, strip all branding out of there, and arrange for a constant release of system updates. CentOS was created with the idea of creating a stable and free operating system for enterprises and organizations.
Peculiarities:
- CentOS contains only the most stable versions of software packages. This means that the risk of errors and failures is greatly reduced;
- Users. who installed CentOS get access to security updates corporate level as this distribution is closely related to Red Hat.
- CentOS includes wide range security features such as a powerful firewall and SELinux policy engine.
4. OpenSUSE
OpenSUSE is a free and open source distribution based on developments SUSE Linux Enterprise that is released a German company Novell. This distribution is designed to be affordable and easy to use.
Peculiarities:
- The distribution uses the default KDE desktop environment. This environment looks more like Windows than Unity, Cinnamon, or Gnome;
- To configure the system, the YaST program is used, which allows you to configure almost everything from installing programs and configuring repositories to configuring network and SysRQ;
- There is a large amount of software available through software.opensuse.org, although slightly less than Ubuntu.
5. ZorinOS
Zorin OS is a beginner's linux distribution based on Ubuntu and has a very Windows-like interface and many default programs. The distribution also comes with wine preinstalled, which allows you to run windows programs, To obtain maximum benefit from a Linux distribution for a beginner.
6. Pinguy OS
Pinguy OS is another Ubuntu-based distribution that supports both x86 and x86-64 architectures. The goal of Pinguy OS is very simple, to look good, to operate and most importantly to be easy to use. Pinguy OS is designed for Linux newbies who just came from Windows or Mac. Here they will find many familiar functions, as well as many new ones.
7. Manjaro Linux
Manjaro Linux is a Linux distribution based on ArchLInux. Its task is to make this operating system easier for new users. Here you will get the ease of installation as much as possible and everything you need so that a novice user can work with the system right after installation. You also get all the latest software as the repositories are regularly synchronized with ArchLinux.
8. Elementary OS
Another distro on our list of the best linux distros for newbies is Elementary OS. Elementary is one of the distributions based on Ubuntu and is a good starting point for beginners. Distribution developers give great importance the design and appearance of the operating system. A large number of packages are supplied with the system. It also has its own application center. But in some cases, the operating system is not very stable.
9. Solus
Last on our list of the best distributions for newbies is Solus. It is a distribution that is built from scratch and only supports the x86_64 architecture. Solus offers many applications for customizing your desktop environment. This is Firefox, Thunderbird, Nautilus, music player Rhythmbox and VLC.
conclusions
This brings us to the end of our list of the best distributions for beginners. You can choose any of them and try it right away. What linux distribution do you think a beginner should choose? Where did you start yourself? Write in the comments!
If you want to try Linux, then you have to decide on the most suitable distribution... There are several hundred different Linux distributions... Some of them make it easier for users to adapt to unfamiliar operating system while others can be quite tricky for beginners.
"Linux" is just the kernel, the main part of the operating system. Graphical environment, utilities command line and other parts of the operating system are separate projects. Linux distributions combine open source components from various projects into a complete operating system that you can install and use.
Switching to Linux is easy enough these days. You need to download the image and create bootable USB media or DVD. After restarting your computer, you can boot from the created media to use Linux in Live mode (without installing on your computer).
V Live mode the Linux distribution will run with boot device without creating potential conflicts with real system... If you decide that you want to install a Linux distribution on your computer, you can do so directly from the Live environment.
New computers may need to disable the feature. secure boot... However, some Linux distributions may boot normally on computers with the Secure Boot option enabled.
"Try Ubuntu or Mint" - very frequent advice... Indeed, these are excellent Linux distributions to get started and learn. If you're looking for something a little different, then Fedora might be the way to go.
Fedora has several philosophical differences from Ubuntu, Mint, and many other distributions. Unlike others, Fedora is only very sensitive to open source software. For example, the system does not include closed source hardware drivers. You must find them yourself if required.
The Fedora developers work directly with open source projects such as GNOME, make small changes, and deliver modern insights to their users. This distribution gives you the freshest and most best projects community.
The Fedora desktop is known as " Fedora Workstation"and is great for developers by providing fast access To necessary tools and functions. On the other hand, anyone can use Fedora.
Fedora is the base for Red Hat Enterprise Linux, commercial product Linux Red Hat Long Term Support. Fedora Project releases new versions approximately every six months, and each release is supported by security updates for approximately 13 months. If you want to get a free Red version Hat Enterprise Linux Red Hat, you can use CentOS. The differences lie in branding and commercial support.
What else can you try
There are many other reliable Linux distributions you can try. The DistroWatch website provides a rating popular distributions with a rating. Projects with good rating are probably great products.
Some Linux distributions are developed and maintained by small development teams such as. Elementary OS offers a simple and easy-to-use desktop based on its own Pantheon environment. It looks good, but it is seriously different from other Linux desktops.
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Let's face it, Linux can overwhelm almost any complexity for new users. But then, it is not Linux that brings this complexity, it is most likely the “novelty” factor that causes such feelings.
This article is especially for those who have no idea what else you can work on your computer instead of Windows or Mac OS.
Best distributions for new users
Please remember that this is a list in no particular order. The main criteria for compiling this list are ease of installation out of the box, ease of use, and availability of software packages.
If you have ever been interested in Linux on the Internet, then it is very likely that you have already encountered. Ubuntu is one of the leading Linux distributions. And it's almost the perfect distro to start your Linux journey.
Ubuntu has been labeled Linux for the people. This is because Ubuntu has already put a lot of effort into universal usability. Ubuntu doesn't require you to be a child prodigy. It breaks the notion of a Linux line - for programmers, and that's one of the highlights.
Ubuntu offers a very user-friendly installation procedure. The installer simply says, "What language do you want to install me in?" You can even try Ubuntu before starting the installation procedure. The installer provides simple options:
- Erase disk and install Ubuntu
- Installation Ubuntu is near with an existing OS (a choice is given at each startup to select the OS to boot).
- Setting up sections for users who know what they are doing.
Initial tip: Choose the second option if you're not sure what to do.
The user interface in Ubuntu is called Unity. This is very simple shell desktop. Launch and favorite applications in the dock on the left side (the so-called “Dash”) and search for applications, which is carried out by clicking on the Super (Windows) button or by clicking on the Ubuntu logo. It couldn't be easier, right?
Ubuntu has no problem installing drivers, which comes with a hardware detector that detects, downloads, and installs the optimal drivers for your PC. Moreover, installed system comes with all basic software such as music player, video player, office suite and other useful programs.
Ubuntu has a lot of documentation and community support. The Ubuntu and Ask Ubuntu Forums provide significant quality support in almost every aspect of Ubuntu. And it is very likely that any question you want to ask may already be answered by someone.
If you decide to install Ubuntu, then you can download this distribution on the official website.
Linux Mint Cinnamon
Most computer users are Windows users. And when a Windows user gets Linux, there are a fair amount of ‘weaning processes’ that the user must go through. A huge number of operations have been recorded in our muscle memory. For example, a mouse going to the lower left corner of the screen (Start), you probably want to launch an application every time. I can only advise you on a distro that alleviates all these problems on Linux, and half the battle is won. Look at .
Zorin OS is a distribution based on Ubuntu based, with a well-polished Linux distribution that will work well for users moving from Windows. Although almost every Linux distribution can be used by everyone, some people are very unaccustomed to seeing someone else's desktop, and Zorin OS will make this transition point easier for you.
Package managers seem at first Linux newbies, something supernatural. This is why Zorin OS comes with a huge (I mean really huge) list of pre-installed software. Everything you need is already installed in Zorin OS.
Zorin OS comes with an amazing theme changer feature. It offers some heavy-handed customization options with presets to make your OS look like Windows 7, XP, 2000, or even Mac.
These features make Zorin OS, best Linux distribution for beginners, right?
Go to the official website to download the most latest version Zorin OS.
Since we looked at distributions for Windows users let's see something for macOS users. very quickly rose in the rankings, and is now always included in the list best distributions, and all thanks to its aesthetic essence. Inspired by the look of MacOS, Elementary OS is one of the most beautiful distributions Linux.
Elementary OS is another Ubuntu-based distribution, which means that the operating system itself is undoubtedly stable. Elementary OS comes with the Pantheon desktop environment, and you can immediately notice the similarities to MacOS. This is an advantage for macOS users who are switching to Linux, as they will feel very comfortable with the distribution, and it really makes it easier to get around this change.
The menu is very simple and customizable according to the user's preferences. The operating system is non-intrusive, so you can really focus on your work. It comes with very little software pre-installed, so any New user will not be distracted by huge bells and whistles, but it will have everything you need out of the box. For additional software, Elementary OS provides a neat AppCenter that is affordable and easy to use. Everything in one place. You can get all the software you want and update with just a few clicks.
You should try it. You can download Elementary OS on the official website.
A large number of people who come to Linux are eager to revive old computers. In the operating room Windows system 10, many computers that had decent performance just a few years ago have become incompetent. And if you are looking for a distribution that would resurrect your old computer then look in Linux side Mate.
Linux Mint mate a very lightweight, not demanding, but still polished distribution. It can run smoothly on weak computers... Desktop environment won't bring you bells and jingles. But in no way inferior in functionality to any other desktop environment. The operating system is non-intrusive and allows you to be productive without losing quality.
Again, Linux Mint Mate is based on Ubuntu and has the edge huge base a solid repository of Ubuntu software. It comes with a minimum of essentials pre-installed. Easy installation drivers and system configuration management is very accessible even for beginners.
You can run Linux Mint Mate even if you have 512 MB random access memory and 9 GB free space on your hard drive (the more the better).
If you have already decided on the choice, then you can download Linux Mint Mate on the official website.
Before you say that you can't direct a newbie to a complex distribution like ArchLinux, listen to me first.
Arch is considered the distribution for experts only because of the very complicated installation procedure. Manajro and Arch Linux have a common origin. But they are pretty much different in everything else.
Has a very beginner friendly setup procedure. Many things are automated, such as installing a driver using Detect Hardware. With Manjaro, you'll forget the hassle of searching for driver installation manuals that plagued many other Linux distributions. And even if you have questions, Manjaro has amazing community support.
Manjaro has its own software repository that supports the very latest software, and this is a priority for users. One of the main differences between Arch and Manjaro is that Manjaro delays package releases to make sure they are completely stable and will not cause regressions. You can also access the Arch User Repository on Manjaro, which has everything you need available.
Any user might be interested in trying the Linux operating system. So it was once with me. There is a lot of literature on the Internet, but there is always topical issue: "Where to begin?". Someone saw Linux from friends, someone found a video or read articles on the Internet, but all these are more often ready-made options. And if you yourself want to install such an OS on your computer, then you will have a bunch of questions. The first question that worried me was the choice of the distribution kit ...
I rummaged through a bunch of literature, but opinions were divided, and they are still divided. Someone with both hands for Debian, someone for Mandriva, RedHat, etc. Currently, there are more than 1300 Linux OS assemblies, and the choice of one of them makes an inveterate Windows enthusiast think deeply. I tried to install different ones, but this was not always possible due to hardware conflicts and simply inexperience. The first distribution that was successfully installed was OpenSuse 11.1, then Debian. The catch is that these distributions have different file structure, programs and more. This confused me even more, but I continued experimenting until I decided on Ubuntu. About her and will be discussed.
I think it's worth noting that Ubuntu is based on Debian distribution, which in turn is very popular with system administrators... What does “founded” mean? I will try to draw a parallel with the Windows OS. Imagine a regular licensed Windows disk... Have you presented? Now imagine some kind of assembly, even the notorious ZverDVD. So, Ubuntu is an "assembly" of Debian 'a, which has an updated kernel, patches (patches), own programs and repositories. Later I will talk about all this separately. I think you should not go too deep into the differences between Ubuntu and Debian, I will only add that this distribution is very popular and new versions of Ubuntu are released every six months (in April and October). Still, why Ubuntu? Yes, it just meets the requirements that a novice user puts before a new OS.
- Simplicity and ease of installation... I want to insert a disc, install, watch and so that there are no unnecessary dances with a tambourine (although with further work without dancing with a tambourine). Note that while working in Windows you can be simple user and not bother with how and what works, and in case of infrequent problems or difficulties, just contact knowledgeable and understanding people who can help you. In the case of Linux, you will have to figure out many things on your own and become a "knowledgeable" person yourself. But do not be afraid, this is not why you came here. Be that as it may, you can always ask a question, and we, in turn, will try to help you.
- For everything to work... Have you installed it? Here's a desktop and all sorts of menus and many programs, and a browser, and a package office programs and a network configuration applet (however, we will learn to work without it and configure the network manually). There is even a player, but it cannot play many audio / video formats by default, I will explain later why this is so and how to solve it.
- I don't want to lose anything. There are many applications and documents on the Windows partition that I don't want to lose when installing Linux. Ubuntu will prompt you to split HDD in part, will save Windows or any other OS and install its own bootloader, which can load both Windows and Linux. Modern Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, have a wonderful opportunity - to run from a disk or flash drive without installing on a computer hard drive. Distributions that can do this are called LiveCD / LiveDVD (that is, "live disk"). Before the first installation, I advise you to first try to start the OS with installation disk ... So you will know for sure that a particular distribution kit can handle the hardware of your computer and there will be no problems during installation. By the way, chances are good that when you start Ubuntu with LiveCD disc you can, having driven in the network settings, use the Internet and the network. You will be able to work with text documents and tables. You will be able to view pictures and stuff. Just try booting from disk. Do not forget that working with a LiveCD is still not working in a full-fledged operating system installed on a hard disk, so be prepared for "brakes" when reading from a CD in an attempt to open a particular program.
You can always leave in the comments your comments and suggestions for revising, changing or correcting the article. We are here for you!
There are a huge number of Linux versions. More than 300 distributions were marked on the DistroWatch.com website in the last month alone, and for the whole Linux history there were about 700 of them. How to choose among this abundance?
There are two main criteria to watch out for:
- Distribution popularity... The more popular your distribution is, the easier it will be to find manuals on the web. A large community means that you can easily get help on the forums dedicated to the distribution if you have any difficulties getting it up and running. Finally, the more widespread the distribution, the more more apps and packages ported for it. It is better to choose popular solutions with ready base packages rather than bothering with building from source in some exotic distribution.
- The development team that deals with it... Naturally, it is better to pay attention to the distributions supported by large companies like Canonical Ltd., Red Hat or SUSE, or distributions with large communities.
Please note that even the best distributions have analogues that are not much inferior to them. If you are not satisfied with the choice of Lifehacker, you can try alternatives.
For those who have never used Linux - Linux Mint
New users migrating from should definitely install Linux Mint. It is the most popular Linux distribution today. It is a very stable and easy-to-use system based on Ubuntu.
Linux Mint is equipped with a light and intuitive interface (Cinnamon shell for modern computers and MATE for older machines) and convenient manager applications, so you won't have any problems finding and installing programs.
Pros: simplicity, care of ordinary users... You don't need any specific knowledge to install and use Mint.
Minuses: a large number of pre-installed software that may never come in handy.
For those who want the latest software - Manjaro
It is a popular Arch-based Linux distribution. Arch is an incredibly powerful and functional distro, but its KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) philosophy, as opposed to its name, makes it too difficult for beginners. Arch is installed via the command line only.
Manjaro, unlike Arch, has a simple graphical installer while still combining powerful capabilities Arch such as the AUR (Arch User Repository) and rolling release. AUR is the richest source Linux packages... If an application is on Linux, it is probably already on the AUR. So in Manjaro you will always have the freshest packages.
Manjaro comes with a variety of desktop skins to choose from: functional KDE, GNOME for tablet screens, Xfce, LXDE and others. Manjaro, you can be sure to get the latest updates first.
Pros: AUR, thanks to which you can install any application without unnecessary movements. Always fresh software.
Minuses: a peculiar design of the desktop shells. However, nothing prevents you from replacing it.
For home server - Debian
A home server can come in handy for many purposes. For example, to store data and backups, download torrents or arrange your own dimensionless.
Debian will live well on your home server... It is a stable and conservative distribution that has become the basis for Ubuntu and many other Linux systems. Debian only uses the most tested packages, which makes it good choice for the server.
Pros: stability and a wide range of applications.
Minuses: the need to manually configure the distribution after installation.
For media center - Kodi
If you want to host your media server, go for Kodi. Strictly speaking, Kodi is not a distribution, but a full-featured media center player. You can install it on any Linux, but the best choice is Ubuntu + Kodi.
Kodi supports all types of video and audio files. He knows how to play movies, music, organize your photos. Kodi turns anyone into universal device for fun.
Thanks to extensions, Kodi can download media files via torrents, track the new seasons of your favorite TV series, show videos from YouTube and other streaming services. In short, Kodi does it all.
In addition, Kodi is very beautiful and is optimized for control with remote control or Android devices. You can easily customize the Kodi interface with a variety of visual skins.
Pros: a huge number of functions and convenient control.
Minuses: standard interface may not be to everyone's liking, but it is easy to replace.
Desktop - Kubuntu
The KDE graphical environment is ideal for use on the desktop, and Kubuntu is the most popular distribution with KDE. Like many other distributions, it is based on Ubuntu, which means you won't have any application compatibility issues.
Kubuntu is beautiful, functional, and highly customizable. Even novice users can easily cope with it. It is a stable and polished system that provides all the functionality you need for your home desktop PC.
Pros: big choice packages, a wonderful set of KDE applications and a huge amount of interface customization.
Minuses: Kubuntu uses stable version KDE, which means that latest features of this shell come here belatedly. If you want to try out the freshest KDE, KDE Neon is at your service.
For an old computer or netbook - Lubuntu
This Ubuntu version based on the LXDE shell, lightweight and modest in resource consumption. It is geared towards older or smaller machines. If you have not very much new computer or a netbook that can't handle Windows, you can install Lubuntu.
This Linux distribution consumes little system resources and is able to run on almost any configuration.
Pros: very fast and light system... However, it supports the same packages and applications as its older sister Ubuntu.
Minuses: appearance LXDE may not be to everyone's taste, but it is small fee for speed.
Alternative: .
For tablet or transformer - Ubuntu
Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions on the desktop. With version 17.10 Ubuntu will end support for the Unity shell and will migrate to GNOME. GNOME looks pretty good on devices with touch screens... If you have a tablet and want to try Linux on it, try Ubuntu with GNOME.
The large GNOME UI elements, customizable gestures and extensions make Ubuntu a great touchscreen system.
Pros: Ubuntu is a widespread distribution, which means you can easily find all the software you need. In addition, most Linux sites are dedicated to Ubuntu.
Minuses: The GNOME shell is user-friendly, but at first it seems strange.
For laptop - elementary OS
As the name suggests, this Linux version very simple. You won't have any problems mastering it. It runs easily on laptops and is slow to drain.
The elementary OS interface resembles macOS, so it will be a pleasure for Mac fans to use. Animations, window decoration - everything here is so smooth and pretty that you can just admire the system. Nevertheless, behind the beautiful shell of elementary OS lurks full fledged Linux that supports all the applications necessary for the operation.
Pros: beautiful interface, own store indie applications.
Minuses: graphical shell Although the Pantheon looks stylish, it is not very functional.
