You have both Windows and Linux set up and require guidance.
You have both Windows and Linux set up and require guidance.
I plan to install Windows 11 and also explore Linux as a backup for games that don’t work on it. This leads me to choose the right Linux distribution for my main PC. Are there any popular options that suit a student’s needs, even if they run differently from Microsoft products? I’m also curious about booting processes and having a secondary OS ready. If you know of a helpful guide that explains this clearly, please share it. I’m not sure where to start because the terminology can be confusing.
The best approach is to use two separate storage devices, assigning one for Windows and another for Linux. While some setups can be done on a single drive, conflicts often arise because Windows prefers its bootloader over Linux's. When choosing a distribution, consider the package manager, default configurations, and built-in software. Most beginner-friendly options like Pop_OS!, Ubuntu, or Mint come preloaded with essentials such as browsers, office tools, and media players, with additional apps accessible via their software center. You can customize these setups further if you're comfortable with the process. Selecting a distro that matches your preferred desktop environment—like KDE for a Windows-like look or Ubuntu for a polished Linux feel—can make the transition smoother. Arch-based distros offer thorough documentation, though the community is smaller and less supportive. The installation steps vary slightly depending on the distro, but generally involve preparing one drive for Windows and another for Linux, ensuring you don’t select the Windows partition during Linux installation. Regardless of the method, the process remains manageable once you understand the basics.
there’s a suitable spot to view each main GUI, though customization usually means adjusting the taskbar position rather than the bottom. As for Linux, a tool like Wallpaper Engine could work if you’re comfortable with it.
Most major distributions offer a live setup you can access, often through screenshots on their official sites. By downloading the ISO and installing it on a USB drive, you can boot directly into it and experiment with the environment. If it doesn’t suit you, simply erase the USB and try another distribution until you find what fits. These examples show just how adaptable each desktop environment can be, though achieving full customization usually demands some effort. Depending on your needs, you might find a more suitable alternative instead.
A common way to try the GUI is using a Live USB. I purchased that by downloading multiple distributions. I’m aware Ubuntu and popOS are popular choices for gaming. Steam OS runs on ARCH, but I recall checking Proton and Wine—neither includes Wallpaper Engine support. So it seems they won’t work. You’ll need to look for another option that fits.
I really like the appearance of that fourth option, but I'm sure there will be other styles to appreciate as well.