There is a long fight between Windows and Linux and it\’s nothing new. Several Windows people are not much fond of Linux as they think that Linux is more complicated. Yes, it\’s true, that it\’s difficult to shift to Linux from Windows. But it\’s not impossible. You just need to remember 10 basic points while making this switch-over.
1. There is a huge difference between Linux and Windows:
You must remember that Linux is a completely different operating system which has some basic differences from Windows. The file system is different, binary files are different and most importantly, Linux is not at all an operating system.
2. Choose a Linux distro:
You should be pretty sure about which Linux distro will suit you the best and for that the key factor will be research. Go to GNU/Linux world to find out the best one for you and some of the best options for you are Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora and Linux Mint. These distributions are mainly aimed at inexperienced Linux users. Moreover, you should know Ubuntu is the most popular and active distro these days.
3. Take Back-Up:
Before going for any migration, make sure that you have a full back-up of your data. Also make sure that the format of your data is cross-platform so that it can be used on Linux too. Copy the data on a disk which can be mounted on Linux. The disk formats which can be read on Linux include FAT32 and NTFS.
4. Support for hardware:
This issue is not very important to remember though. But in case you are a part of a big organisation then cost cutting stays in focus through cheaper hardware and that\’s when this transition becomes a concern. But you should relax as Linux supports LiveCD which allows you to download an ISO image, boot from the Live CD and find out if the hardware is supported or not. Whatever is the result, you know what you need to do.
5. Ensure the reason of your migration:
As there are lots of Linux distributions you need to know the actual reason why you need to switch to Linux as per your needs. You should also be sure about the reason which Linux distro you need to install in your system. But make sure that no stupid reason is there behind your migrating decision.
6. Learn to use Linux applications:
Linux applications have a good collection like Firefox, Audacity, VLC, Inkscape and GIMP. You can use all these applications on Linux and open source applications are always a painless option.
7. Learn to use Active Directory:
If you want to use the Active Directory, in case you have a large organisation, you need to understand one thing first. The process of migrating from AD to OpenLDAP is not a very easy task and some of the AD operations are not also compatible with OpenLDAP. It doesn\’t always mean that AD is superior to OpenLDAP but don\’t expect that the migration will be a simple execution of a single command or just a button\’s click.
8. Use Third-Party applications:
If your Linux distribution has no migration tools, integrated into it, then there are several third-party apps like MoveOver 4, OpenMoveOver, Desktop Migration Agent etc. which will help you in the process.
9. Learn Linux Commands:
Commands are not easy for those who use computers in daily use. It\’s not like Linux command is mandatory but if you learn the commands, you will be at the end of extra benefits. With the GUI you can perform various tasks but command seems to be more handy sometimes. In fact commands are sometimes faster than GUI.
10. Ensure comfort with Linux:
As time goes on you will stop missing Windows for sure. Linux will be a greatr learning experience for you and take help from the “community” which comes easily available for most of the Linux distros. In this community you can ask questions and so many people are there out to help you. You can also check your chosen distribution\’s support page or FAQ for ensuring more comfort.
Reposted from http://www.efytimes.com/e1/fullnews.asp?edid=148542