Looking to get back to Linux

[imported_Uber]

So, I won't claim to be a Linux expert, or even an experienced user, but I have used Linux at least a little bit in the past, and I'd like to return to using it.

However, I'd like something I can pick up quickly, and run most of my old apps on (via Wine, perhaps?).

Any suggestions? Ubuntu, maybe?

 

[xSauronx]

ubuntu is certainly a good start. what apps do you *need* to run?

 

[compman25]

Ubuntu using wubi to install---great way to try linux and see if it's for you.

 

[imported_Uber]

Sauron: I've just gotten used to using a variety of Windows based apps, and I'd like to continue being able to run them. Many of them are games. Would Wine do that for me, or would it be a problem?

 

[xSauronx]

Originally posted by: Uber
Sauron: I've just gotten used to using a variety of Windows based apps, and I'd like to continue being able to run them. Many of them are games. Would Wine do that for me, or would it be a problem?

thats why i asked. it really, really depends on the software. wine has a database of games and software with ratings and reviews as to how well it works. some games may work well, some may not work at all. crossover games is a commercial product that is supposed to have better support for some software.

for other software linux has an alternative for most things that youd probably be happy with. but if you game a lot, you likely wont want to run linux, unless its a specific game you always play that has good support.

 

[imported_Uber]

Hmmm... I guess I'll have to just play around with it.

 

[degibson]

You can always dual-boot, or take the VM approach.

 

[imported_Uber]

That's what I'll probably do. Dual boot, that is.

 

[compman25]

Originally posted by: Uber
That's what I'll probably do. Dual boot, that is.

Do it the wubi way, if you don't like it you just uninstall it from windows.

 

[imported_Uber]

Yeah, I've used Wubi before.

What version is it up to now?

 

[compman25]

8.10

 

[Chadder007]

Originally posted by: compman25

Originally posted by: Uber
That's what I'll probably do. Dual boot, that is.

Do it the wubi way, if you don't like it you just uninstall it from windows.

Agreed. Wubi > * if you want to just try Ubuntu out.

 

[cKGunslinger]

I installed LinuxMint in a VirtualBox , and I must say, I enjoy it even more than my Host OS (Ubuntu 8.10)

 

[Red Squirrel]

VMware 6.5 is great as far as graphical apps go. I have not tried it in Linux but tried a Windows VM within Windows and was able to play Ultima Online flawlessly in it. Now this is a low graphics game but as far as a video card is concerned it's still some work. In VMware server or vmware 5 it would totally lag out. So you may have luck running some games in VMware 6.5 under Linux.

Though your 2nd option is dual boot but that can be kinda anoying and if you find yourself 90% of the time in windows then it defeats the purpose of switching. But say there's a few games you don't play that much and the bulk of your work can be done in Linux then it's worth it.

Been wanting to switch over myself just for a new change and something new to learn.