This is a "must read" for all new users

Mompy · 03-30-2010, 05:30 PM

I have just read "Linux is NOT Windows" by Dominic Humphries

http://linux.oneandoneis2.org/LNW.htm

and it should be read by all new users of any Linux distro. Most of us newbies come from Windows and expect Linux to be as "easy" to use. This article, written in 2006, firstly clears up the misconception that Linux is a copy of Windows, and goes onto explain just what Linux is (and isn't!). Would the administrators consider including this as a "read first" in the sticky at the beginning of the newbie forum? I found the article invaluable and I know that if I had read this months ago I would be much further along in my understanding of Linux. I hope others find this as valuable as I did.

pixellany · 03-30-2010, 05:41 PM

As the saying goes: You are proselytizing the previously converted. That article is often cited here.

I'm working on one entitled: "Windows is not an operating system." ----it's probably not going to be as popular....

Mompy · 03-30-2010, 05:50 PM

I had an idea that others may already know about this, and I will be reading your article. I tend to get a tad excited when I find something "new" about Linux, so bear with me. Thanks for the reply.

penguiniator · 03-30-2010, 06:02 PM

Hey! Just because you're preaching to the choir doesn't mean we don't like the sermon.

chrism01 · 03-30-2010, 06:30 PM

I agree it's worth a read for newbies; I recommend it on occasion myself.

MTK358 · 03-30-2010, 07:15 PM

"Linux is not Windows" one of my favorite articles on the internet.

@pixellany

I'll be sure to read it when it's finished — but where will I find it?

XavierP · 03-31-2010, 02:36 AM

Domininc is (or was) a member here. It's probably his most read page on his entire site.

Mompy · 03-31-2010, 06:26 PM

The thing that impacts me is Dominic's comment on the "mental fix" of Windows users. Because they have to pay for all software, they have the attitude, "attend to my demands now" if they can't get it working. Can't do that in this community!! I'll be interested to read why "Windows is not an operating system".

penguiniator · 03-31-2010, 07:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mompy

I'll be interested to read why "Windows is not an operating system".

Because it's an advertising platform. It runs software that demands user interaction so that vendors can put their company name, product brand and logo in your face daily in the form of desktop icons, menus arranged by product, and startup splash screens.