LINUX AS A HOBBY

A helpful way to think of Linux is to think of it as a hobby. Linux can be simple and fairly easy to install (Ubuntu or Mint for example), but it can also go very deep with options and configurations to keep most computer hobbyists (hackers) happy.

Video gaming is a hobby that requires that you pay $60 every time you need a new fix depending on how quickly you get bored of a game. Many gamers get bored in about 1-2 weeks. On the other hand, most Linux software is available for free, so you can explore new Linux distros and software anytime you get bored and it's won't cost you anything other than your time.

You don't need a 32 GB flash drive for Linux installation. A 8 GB or even 4 GB will do fine.

Linux Supply Kit

Before you get started, you will need to create a Linux Supply Kit. The supply kit will make Linux installation much quicker and easier. The kit consists of the following:

1 - USB Flash Drive (Also called USB thumb drive)

2 - Second hard drive (Optional)

The USB flash drive allows you to install and re-install Linux distros as fast and easy as plugging a USB device into your computer. The 2nd hard drive is to protect your existing important files (like photos, email, personal data) from being accidentally deleted when you install, upgrade, or change different versions of Linux. The 2nd hard drive does not need to be very large because it's just for your operating systems (Windows, Linux, etc.). It only has to be 40 to 80 GB depending on how many operating systems you want to install at a time. Bigger is of course better, but you can get away with 40 GB just fine. You can usually find a 250 GB on Craig's list for about $10 to $20, so it's not expensive to have piece of mind. Therefore, you don't really need a 2nd hard drive to start playing with Linux, but it gives extra protection for your important data files.


All in all, if you are going to dabble in the world of Linux, go out to the store (or shop online) and slap down a whole $5 to $10 for a flash drive and it will make your new Linux hobby that much more enjoyable.

2015 Linux Beast Magazine

IS WINDOWS REALLY THAT BAD?

Is Microsoft Windows really that bad?

The answer is no. I actually like Windows (and I don't work for Microsoft). I have really fond memories of XP and 7. In fact, the reason I love Linux is because the user interface is similar to Windows. If you can do Windows, you can do Linux. However, the setup of Linux can sometimes be challenging.

Windows - Not that bad. Stop giving Windows Fan Boys such a hard time.

Linux - Similar to Windows, but more flavors/options.

Mac - Don't know. Can't afford it. Makes good status symbol for young video producers who want to look cool on YouTube. Apple good for hipsters.


What is a Windows Fanboy?
A Windows fanboy is a person who absolutely loves Windows and will claim that it is the best operating system in the galaxy often overlooking any negative aspects of the software. They are likely to get into lively sometimes violent debates with Mac and Linux enthusiasts.
 
What is a hipster?
The hipster subculture typically consists of white millennials living in urban areas. The subculture has been described as a "mutating, trans-Atlantic melting pot of styles, tastes and behavior" and is broadly associated with indie and alternative music, a varied non-mainstream fashion sensibility (including vintage and thrift store-bought clothes), generally progressive political views, organic and artisanal foods, and alternative lifestyles. Hipsters are typically described as affluent or middle class young Bohemians who reside in gentrifying neighborhoods.


2015 Linux Beast Magazine

Linux vs Windows vs Mac

Linux vs Windows vs Mac

I love this video, but it is a little unfair to Linux. As you and I know, Linux can do everything the others can do except for gaming. Who cares about gaming anyway! That's why I bought my Sony Playstation 4. My PC is to create and my Playstation is to play. Pretty simple.

Food for thought . . .
Mac vs PC debate - Why do those Mac commercials attack PC's instead of attacking Windows directly. Afterall, a PC is a very popular platform for Linux!

Linux vs Windows vs Mac video


2015 Linux Beast Magazine