Linux distribution Archives

Winsage

April 5, 2025

Microsoft Says Throw Away Your Windows 10 Computers

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, meaning no more security updates or technical assistance will be provided. While Windows 10 will still function, users face increased security risks without updates. Alternatives for users with incompatible hardware include Linux distributions like Zorin OS and Linux Mint, which offer familiar interfaces for those transitioning from Windows. Users can choose to ignore the deadline, invest in new hardware, switch to Linux, pay for Extended Security Updates, or attempt to upgrade incompatible systems to Windows 11 through registry edits and enabling Secure Boot with TPM. The impending support cutoff raises concerns about e-waste and sustainability, prompting discussions on the need for manufacturers to focus on product longevity and repairability. Local Linux User Groups and online communities are available to assist users in this transition.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

5 reasons why GParted is better than any Windows alternative for partition management

GParted is a free and open-source partition management tool available on Linux, allowing users to boot directly from a flash drive without installation. It supports over a dozen file systems, including HFS, HFS+, BTRFS, and F2FS, providing versatility beyond Windows' Disk Management, which is limited to NTFS, exFAT, and FAT32. GParted enables users to manage partition flags easily, a feature not available in Windows. While it does not offer direct partition recovery options, users can use the Terminal in GParted Live to execute disk tests for locating lost partitions. GParted can run from a live USB across multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it a flexible choice for partition management. It allows users to shrink partitions, create new ones, and recover lost partitions and files, although it is recommended for users comfortable with partition management.

AppWizard

March 20, 2025

Linux on Android: Google clarifies the new Terminal app’s purpose

Google's new Linux Terminal app for Android, launched with the March 2025 Pixel Drop, allows users to create and manage a Debian virtual machine on their Pixel devices through a command-line interface. The app is designed to enhance the Android app ecosystem by enabling the use of Linux apps, tools, and games, rather than creating a new desktop environment. Users can control their Linux environment, including storage allocation and port forwarding. While users can install Linux desktop management systems like XFCE or GNOME, these will not be the default experience. Google is also preparing GPU acceleration for future releases. The development indicates a convergence between Android and ChromeOS, but both systems will retain their distinct functionalities, with Android focused on mobile use and ChromeOS optimized for desktop productivity.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

How to easily run Windows apps on Linux with Wine

Many users are exploring alternatives to Windows 10 as support for it ends, with Linux becoming a popular choice. Wine is a compatibility layer that allows Windows applications to run on Linux, although not all applications are compatible. A searchable database exists for users to check compatibility. The latest Wine release includes enhanced API compatibility, bug fixes for DirectX, improved graphics rendering, support for ARM architecture, new debugging tools, and multi-touch functionality. To install a Windows application on Linux using Wine, users must have a Linux distribution and sudo privileges. The process involves downloading the Windows installer, using terminal commands to run it, and potentially installing 32-bit support. Winetricks can simplify the installation of Windows applications through a GUI. Some applications may require additional configuration, especially games.

Winsage

March 5, 2025

5 reasons you should swap from Windows to Linux

Windows is one of the most widely used operating systems globally, but Linux offers several advantages as an alternative. Linux is free and open-source, allowing users to access its source code and customize their experience. It does not come with pre-installed applications (bloatware), enabling users to install only the software they need, thus saving storage space. Linux provides extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor their desktop environment and system settings. It has enhanced security features due to its smaller user base, which makes it less of a target for cybercriminals, and its approach to application permissions reduces the risk of malware. Linux can run efficiently on older hardware, with many distributions designed for less powerful systems. Additionally, there are various Linux versions available that cater to both technical and non-technical users.

Winsage

March 1, 2025

Running Windows 7 in 2025

Windows 7 officially retired on January 14, 2020, but remains in use by some users due to its classic features and lack of built-in advertising. Many users continue to use Windows 7 because of outdated hardware, software compatibility issues, or financial constraints following the end of the free upgrade program in 2023. Users can maintain their Windows 7 installations by decluttering with the built-in Disk Cleanup tool, using Legacy Update for updates, and being cautious while browsing the web. The last compatible version of Google Chrome for Windows 7 is version 109, while Firefox version 115 still receives updates. Alternatives like PaleMoon and eM Client are available for users. Disabling OneDrive and exploring reliable applications like Ghostwriter and Notepad++ can enhance the Windows 7 experience.

Winsage

February 24, 2025

Need a Windows 10 alternative? Still miss XP? This Linux distro is for you

Since the late 1990s, the journey through Linux and open-source technology has aimed to simplify the operating system for newcomers, especially those transitioning from Windows. The Q40S distribution, also known as XPQ4, offers rethemed versions that mimic Windows 10 or Windows XP. Q40S is based on Debian, and XPQ4 provides the Windows-like appearance. FreeXP resembles Windows XP, while Free10 mirrors Windows 10. The FreeXP version includes the Bliss Wallpaper and a familiar Start button, while Free10 aligns more closely with Windows 10. The installation of Free10 is straightforward, and it features a quality interface that captures the essence of Windows 10. The Q40S Welcome Screen offers access to various tools, including the Desktop Profile tool for alternative desktop environments. Free10 presents a standard KDE Plasma menu with a Windows 10-like twist. Users can customize the bottom panel and themes, but changing the theme may detract from the Windows 10 experience. Application installation differs from Windows, requiring Wine for .exe files, while KDE Discover provides a user-friendly interface for installing applications. Free10 does not have Flatpak support enabled by default, but it can be added. Free10 is suitable for those transitioning from Windows 10 to a cost-free operating system with ongoing support and security. It can be downloaded and installed on multiple computers, making it a reliable alternative to traditional operating systems.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

Running Ubuntu on Windows 11 is easier than ever

Ubuntu has introduced a new distribution architecture for the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) that simplifies the management of Ubuntu instances on Windows 11. This new tar-based WSL distribution format replaces the previous Microsoft Store method, allowing IT administrators to distribute and manage Ubuntu WSL instances using tar files. Organizations can now host and manage their own WSL images with specific policies, providing greater control and flexibility. The new method requires WSL version 2.4.8 or higher, and installation can be done via command line or by double-clicking the .wsl file.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

Ubuntu installations on WSL 2 are now better than ever and don’t require the Microsoft Store

Ubuntu is the leading Linux distribution on the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and has been designated as the default distro. Canonical has introduced a new installation process using Microsoft's tar-based distribution model, replacing appx bundles from the Microsoft Store. This model allows for easier customization and deployment of Ubuntu instances, enabling users to manage WSL instances directly from tar files. The installation process for WSL 2 has been simplified with the command wsl --install Ubuntu. Key benefits of the tar-based model include independence from Windows Packaged Apps, customization options for developers and administrators, and a simplified installation process. Users can download the tar-based .wsl file from Ubuntu and install it easily. Other distributions like Fedora and Arch Linux are also planning to provide official images for WSL.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

Canonical Delivers Ubuntu Tar Archives for Easy Installation in the Windows Subsystem for Linux

Canonical has introduced a new tar-format archive for installing Ubuntu on the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), allowing users to bypass the Microsoft Store. This enhancement facilitates easier customization and deployment, particularly beneficial for enterprises needing tailored Linux environments. Developers and system administrators can now distribute, install, and manage Ubuntu WSL instances directly from tar files. The new capability is available for WSL version 2.4.8 and higher, enabling installation with the command "wsl --install ubuntu" and allowing for manual downloading and installation of tar archives.