Linux on virtual machine and dual-boot setup? Which distribution should you choose?
Linux on virtual machine and dual-boot setup? Which distribution should you choose?
Hey there. After wrapping up the first semester of my 5-year MSci Computer Science program, I decided it made sense to switch to Linux. Before jumping in, here are a few questions I have. - First, which distribution should I choose? I mainly need it for developing Python, C++, Java, and some external tools. The campus client desktops all use Ubuntu, but I sometimes need to switch to other distros. Should I be okay using a different distro while still working with those campus desktops? - Second, I’d like to run my installation inside a VM on Windows and have the same setup as a native install next to Windows and macOS on my Mac. I’m flexible about storage limits. Thanks!
I recommend Arch Linux for its hands-on experience, though the setup is challenging. It offers full control over your system. For a less complex path, Antergos is a good alternative built on Arch with extra tools. If you prefer a widely accepted option, consider Debian, Ubuntu, or Linux Mint. You can run two versions—one in a virtual machine and another alongside your current OS—as long as you have sufficient storage.
Yes, there are effective methods to sync files across IDEs like PyCharm and Eclipse. One option is using OneDrive’s built-in sync features, which supports seamless integration across platforms. For Linux users, you can leverage command-line tools or desktop utilities to automate synchronization, ensuring your 1TB account works smoothly across devices.
Arch offers a lean profile, yet Ubuntu remains the most common choice in guides and serves as a foundation for Docker containers. I recommend Ubuntu if you prefer the Mac OS interface or Mint if you favor Windows conventions. For matching VM installs with native setups, consider using drive partitions as storage in your virtualization tool. I’ve heard there’s a method for doing this in Virtual Box.
The primary drawbacks of Arch and Antergos include their Windows-like and macOS-like interfaces, which don’t align with your preference for a more manual experience. You also prefer not to rely on the Windows or macOS GUI, and you’re open to a slightly less polished look. While you’re comfortable with Windows and macOS for most tasks, you’ll need to adapt during development phases.
I wouldn't recommend using OneDrive for tasks like that unless you're dealing with huge binary files. If it's just code, Git would be a better choice. For syncing configuration files, Git remains the superior option. When it comes to larger files such as images or videos, services like OneDrive or Dropbox are more suitable. If you're new to Git, it's a highly valuable skill to learn early in your career. I had enough knowledge to work with GitHub for installations, but I wish I'd learned about it sooner in university. (They've apparently reorganized the course now, making it more suitable at that stage.) Consider creating a GitLab account or similar if you need private repositories (which would be useful for university projects) or if you're working with configurations, as long as you manage what you upload carefully. Regarding your questions: any Linux distribution can meet your needs. The main differences for beginners are ease of use and the initial setup experience. Installing Ubuntu gives you a complete desktop environment, making it straightforward to get started since it feels familiar like Windows or Mac. Arch Linux requires a more involved setup, pushing you directly into the terminal and building your environment from scratch. The clear benefit is getting exactly what you need without excess features, though it demands more effort upfront. I began with Ubuntu, learned the terminal, then moved to Arch and never looked back. Either option works, but Arch offers deeper insights into the operating system as you progress. If you prefer a smoother start, Ubuntu is easier to begin with and won't overwhelm you with complexity. If you're frustrated by certain aspects or desire more control, consider switching later. Running the OS in both virtual machine and full installation is technically feasible. VirtualBox has a "createrawvmdk" command that creates a virtual hard drive pointing to your actual storage. This method is less common and may require additional hardware (like an extra HDD). It can be cumbersome and might cause driver issues (such as display drivers). I'd prefer sticking with a VM or a full installation, or using two separate setups.
You're considering Git for code synchronization and are curious about Ubuntu versus Mint. I'll break down the main differences between them. Start with Ubuntu if you're new to Linux, as it's more beginner-friendly. Mint is another option but might have slightly different terminal commands and package managers. Since you're comfortable with Ubuntu, it's a good choice to begin there.
the key distinction lies in the kernel release. debian runs 3.6, fedora uses 4.8, and ubuntu 16 LTS is based on 4.4. this applies to package management systems—debian uses apt, arch employs pacman, and fedora utilizes yum. it's manageable to work with any of them. you'll need to grasp a version control method for collaborating on projects, especially when teaming up with others. git remains the most widely adopted option.