Seeking expert Linux guidance
Seeking expert Linux guidance
I've grown tired of Microshaft's constant "unintended outcomes" from their updates (as noted here) and feel prepared to switch to Linux or LTSC. My current setup includes: Corsair 4000X case / RM850x PSU (if needed), Ryzen 5900X (PBO enabled), Asus Tuf B550-PLUS, Asus KO RTX3060ti-8GB-OC with 32GB DDR4-3200 (after OC), 1TB WD Blue SN570 M.2 6TB WD Black HDD. My software stack is LibreOffice (can use OpenOffice if needed), BeamNG.drive, American Truck Simulator, Mozilla Firefox, OBS iCUE, Control Software, Audacity, VLC Player, and Media Player Classic. I’m using Media Player Classic for a more traditional point-and-click experience without the heavy-handed guidance typical of Microshaft. I understand full compatibility isn’t guaranteed, so I’m sharing this list to help someone with expertise suggest the best fit.
LibreOffice remains the standard in most distributions, no adjustments needed. These options come with native Linux versions or function via Proton. ProtonDB and the appdb website are useful references when testing compatibility. They can be a bit inconsistent but generally work. On Linux, antivirus isn’t essential due to the limited presence of consumer-focused malware. This advice may change. A few alternatives exist, such as OpenRGB and CKB-Next, though none are flawless. If you’re starting out, Mint is a solid choice—it mimics Windows appearance, runs on Ubuntu foundations, offers extensive support, and is stable. Kubuntu is another viable option. KDE provides a Windows-like experience, but opinions within the Linux community vary widely.
There are no true Linux experts or leaders. Usually the guides come from script kiddies. Avoid removing Windows; instead, use it alongside Linux in dual boot. You might start with Linux via a virtual machine. Once comfortable, you can switch to Linux in dual mode for most tasks. If you require a Windows-only application, Wine has its boundaries.
Linux doesn't provide guidance on hardware or software usage... the drawback is you'll need to learn independently rather than relying on Windows support. I prefer Cinnamon as a Windows-style Linux distribution, with a customized version of Ubuntu or Mint.
they are included in Linux Mint during installation or via live disc/USB. setting up is straightforward—just open Software Manager, type the name, and click install depending on your needs. For example, if you're using a library function, you could replace it with Kodi or Plex since they don’t have BeamNG. However, if American and Euro Truck Simulator work on your AM3+ processor, it should function for you. If you're mainly seeking email protection, these two options might be areas to focus on.
Others have mentioned that Linux Mint Cinnamon doesn’t require a virus checker. By default, LibreOffice and Firefox are installed. VideoPad recommended other options like Shotcut, Avidemux, Kdenlive, Openshot, plus Audacity, VLC—available in the Software Manager for free. iCUE Control isn’t supported. The goal is a setup that feels like Windows’ point-and-click style but avoids Microsloth’s typical instructions. You’re teasing… aren’t you? In Linux there’s no such thing—just it works as intended. Try burning an ISO onto a USB stick and booting from it to see how it feels.
Luckily, I discovered a fix for the problem that sparked my need for this. I'm hoping it doesn't become an ongoing issue again.
Based on your software needs, running it on Linux should work well. Consider testing it by installing it together with Windows.