8 Things You Need to Know Before Switching From Windows to Ubuntu
Transitioning from Windows to Ubuntu can be daunting at first especially if you’ve never used a Linux-based system before. However, you shouldn’t face any challenges or surprises if you’re properly prepared for the switch.
Preparation for the transition is easy and involves knowing just a few things that might work a little bit differently on the new platform. Here are eight things you need to take note of before making the switch from Windows to Ubuntu.
1. You Can Run Ubuntu Directly From Your Portable Flash Drive
One of the most outstanding features of Ubuntu isthe ability to carry it around in a bootable USB driveand run it on any computer you come across. This capability gives you a chance of testing it out before you make a full installation.
You can check out all of Ubuntu’s features in this state and if it fails to impress you, you can simply ditch it and continue working with Windows. As a result, you’ll end up saving lots of time that you would have wasted installing an entire operating system only to change your mind later.
This feature also comes in handy if you want to borrow a friend’s computer without having to access their files and programs. It means you can walk around with a flash drive and still have access to Ubuntu even if you’re handed a Windows computer.
2. You Can Seamlessly Install Ubuntu Alongside Windows
If you still want to continue using Windows on your computer, you could install Ubuntu alongside it as a dual-boot system. A dual-boot system is a computer running two operating systems—Windows and Ubuntu, in this case.
Setting it up is easy as long as you remember to opt to install the new OS alongside Windows duringthe Ubuntu installation process. Once your installation is complete, you can always choose whether to launch Windows or Ubuntu and perform your tasks on either operating system.
3. Using the Terminal (It’s Pretty Easy)
When transitioning from Windows to Ubuntu, one of the biggest changes you must get used to is performing some tasks using terminal commands. If you’ve used the Windows Command Prompt before, the transition should be smooth.
However, it might seem intimidating if you’ve never used terminal commands before but they’re easy to figure out. You’ll need the Ubuntu terminal to perform basic tasks like installing apps, performing system updates, and uninstalling apps, among many other complex tasks.
A quick Google search will always provide you with what you need to do in the initial stages. The Ubuntu online community is always helpful besides the many dedicated troubleshooting sites. Once you get used to working on the Ubuntu system, everything should be a breeze.
4. Ubuntu Will Run Smoothly on Old PCs
Most old PCs will struggle to run the latest Windows version. With Ubuntu, your PC won’t struggle as much because it demands significantly lower resources from your system. You can evenrun Ubuntu on a Chromebook.
If you’re working with an old PC, you can find even lighter Linux distros than Ubuntu with similar experience and functionality. Besides making an old PC usable,using these Linux distros come with many other benefits.
5. You Aren’t Forced to Install OS Updates
Unlike Windows, Ubuntu won’t force you to update your system—you’ll receive a popup reminder that you’re able to ignore if you want to perform updates at a later time. You’ll always have the option of initiating upgrades at your time or manually through the terminal.
When you decide to run an update, you may still continue using your PC without having to restart it. You’ll only be prompted to restart your system after the update installation is complete, but you can forgo this step and do it later without disrupting your workflow.
On Windows, you might end up leaving your work on hold for more than an hour in case the system forces you to restart for an update. The bigger the update, the longer you’ll have to wait.
6. You May Miss Out on Playing Your Favorite Games
Most mainstream PC game developers don’t produce games optimized for Linux-based systems like Ubuntu. This is one of the reasons why installing Ubuntu alongside Windows may be a good idea if you’re a gamer.
If you don’t want to run both operating systems at the same time, there’s a workaround you can use toplay Windows games on Ubuntu. This involves installing at least one of these applications: Steam, Proton, Wine, Lutris, or Bottles. Alternatively, you can try out some of theLinux games available online.
7. Running Windows Programs on Ubuntu Is Possible
Just like Windows games, you’re able to still run most Windows programs like Microsoft Office if you ever need them. You’ll need an application calledWinApps to run Windows programs on Ubuntu.
Besides WinApps, you may also check out Wine, Bottles, and Vineyard among many other applications. The ability to access some of your favorite Windows programs on Ubuntu will make your transition from Windows easier.
8. Ubuntu Is More Secure Compared to Windows
On Windows, you must install an antivirus to keep your system secure. Being widely used means malicious players have the incentive to create malware and attack Windows systems.
Windows also has more security loopholes like the fact that you can install programs without any security huddle to jump over. On Ubuntu, you must enter your administrator password each time you’re installing an application or making changes to the system.
Requiring a password means a payload sent to attack your system won’t be installed unless you give it express permission. However, this doesn’t mean your Ubuntu PC is invincible. You should always keep an eye out for potentially malicious files and avoid untrustworthy websites.
Be Productive on Your New Ubuntu System
Ubuntu is an entirely different environment especially if you haven’t used a Linux-based system before—but in a good way. It’s open source which means you’re able to simply download it and start using it for free, unlike Windows. You’ll also get a productivity suite like LibreOffice, a Microsoft Office alternative preinstalled for free.
If you’re worried about how the switch will affect your workflow, you’re able to do basically anything you could on Windows without any hiccups. The only thing that you may miss out on is the wide library of games available on Windows.
Despite what all the Linux haters say, choosing Ubuntu is logical and migrating from Windows to Ubuntu is a breeze.
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