Linux Mint Archives

Winsage

August 24, 2025

Sorry, Bill Gates: I haven’t used Windows for years, and I don’t miss it one bit

The author transitioned from Windows to Linux nearly two decades ago, prompted by frustrations with Windows Vista. They appreciate Linux for its diverse distributions catering to various user needs, with user-friendly options like Ubuntu and Linux Mint for beginners and more customizable options like Arch Linux for experienced users. The author enjoys experimenting with different distros, particularly Fedora and Arch Linux. Gaming on Linux has improved significantly, with Valve's Proton enabling seamless play of Windows games, including titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and X4: Foundations. The installation process for Linux is simpler and less intrusive than Windows, which requires a Microsoft account and involves privacy-related choices. Linux also supports older hardware better than Windows and Apple, promoting sustainability. The author does not miss Windows and views Linux as the superior operating system.

Winsage

August 7, 2025

Updating your Linux kernel sounds scary, but here’s why it’s no different from a Windows update

Updating the Linux kernel is generally straightforward and low-risk, similar to Windows updates. Most Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and Linux Mint, manage kernel updates automatically through the package manager. When a new kernel is installed, the previous version remains intact, allowing users to revert to it if necessary via the GRUB boot menu. Kernel updates provide essential security patches, bug fixes, and improved hardware support. While manual installation of a kernel is possible, it is not required for most users. Tools are available for easier management of kernel versions, but the update process is designed to be user-friendly and safe.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

7 features Windows 12 needs to borrow from its competitors

Microsoft has confirmed that the 2024 update will be Windows 11 version 24H2, not Windows 12. Nvidia may wait for Windows 12 to launch its N1X processor for laptops. Potential features for Windows 12 include a streamlined menu bar inspired by macOS, the ability to pin files to the dock from ChromeOS, a native preview feature similar to macOS's Preview, a Quick Insert menu like that on Chromebooks, offline setup options as seen in Linux, enhanced customization options akin to Linux Mint, and a more efficient search function similar to macOS's Spotlight.

Winsage

July 27, 2025

I’m not upgrading to Windows 11, but I’m not tolerating Linux either

The author has been using an HP Pavilion laptop for a decade, but its performance on Windows 11 has declined due to modern applications and web standards. The laptop's 4th-gen i5 processor struggles with current operating system demands, leading to slowdowns during simple tasks. Attempts to optimize Windows 11 provided only marginal improvements. The author considered switching to Chrome OS Flex for its lightweight nature but found its reliance on web applications and lack of support for certain software limiting. Linux was also considered but deemed too complicated and incompatible with essential Windows-native applications. Ultimately, the author decided to install Chrome OS using the Brunch Framework, which allowed the aging laptop to run more efficiently and support the Google Play Store, improving overall performance and user experience.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

4 reasons I switched from NixOS to Mint Linux as a Windows-to-Linux convert

Transitioning from Windows to Linux can be prompted by the end of support for Windows 10. The author chose Linux Mint after experimenting with various distributions, influenced by experiences with NixOS. Linux Mint features a Cinnamon desktop environment that resembles Windows, offering an intuitive interface with a customizable taskbar and easy navigation. It comes preloaded with essential applications like Firefox, VLC, and LibreOffice, and uses a straightforward APT package manager for software installation. Built on Ubuntu LTS, Mint provides robust driver support and GUI-based troubleshooting tools, making it more approachable than NixOS, which has a steeper learning curve and requires knowledge of the Nix language. The author prefers Mint for its user-friendly design and ease of use as they transition from Windows.

Winsage

July 19, 2025

Linux breaks a new record for US market share as people presumably flee Windows for its open-source rival

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as the end-of-life deadline for Windows 10 approaches. Despite this, many users remain loyal to Windows 10, leading Microsoft to offer extended support options for a fee. This situation has prompted some Windows 10 users to explore alternative operating systems, contributing to Linux achieving over 5% market share in the US for the first time, according to StatCounter. Linux's market share has increased by approximately 1.30% over the past year, coinciding with a decline of over 2% for Windows.

Winsage

July 14, 2025

The Restart Project releases the “End of Windows 10 toolkit” to help communities move over to Linux

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October, prompting users to upgrade to Windows 11 or buy new hardware. The Restart Project is advocating for a switch to Linux, offering a toolkit to help communities transition to open-source solutions instead of upgrading. They highlight that many computers running Windows 10 will not meet Windows 11's requirements, leaving users with unsupported devices. The project promotes an "End of 10" service for repair groups and suggests hosting "End of 10" parties for installing user-friendly Linux distributions like Linux Mint. Some Linux distributions are designed to resemble the Windows experience, making the transition easier for users.

Winsage

July 11, 2025

4 things Linux does better than Windows for the average user

Windows 11 dominates the consumer market due to partnerships with laptop manufacturers, creating a barrier for Linux. Windows 11 requires users to create a Microsoft account during setup, allowing data tracking, while Linux allows setup with just a local username and password, enhancing privacy. Windows 11 imposes unnecessary features like OneDrive and aggressive marketing, whereas Linux offers a customizable experience without upsells. Windows often includes bloatware, while Linux distributions typically come with only essential applications that can be uninstalled. Linux provides extensive customization options through various distributions, allowing users to tailor their computing experience.

Winsage

July 4, 2025

I don’t care that Microsoft is extending Windows 10’s support, I’m still moving to Linux

Microsoft has announced free options for Windows 10 users to extend support, initially expected to require an annual fee. However, many users are still planning to transition away from Windows. Microsoft will eventually phase out Windows 10, pushing users towards Windows 11. The company aims to encourage upgrades to new hardware and software, which may lead to increased advertisements within Windows 10. Users considering the free security extension have options like syncing settings to OneDrive or redeeming Microsoft Rewards points, but these may not appeal to those planning to switch to Linux. Linux Mint is presented as a more exciting alternative, offering continuous updates and a vibrant community, attracting users looking for a dynamic computing experience.

Winsage

June 29, 2025

Every Windows user should keep a live version of Linux handy

Many users experience frustration with operating system issues on Windows, often leading to time wasted on troubleshooting and rebooting. A live version of Linux, such as Linux Mint, can serve as a reliable alternative for diagnosing and fixing Windows-related problems. This live distribution runs from a USB drive and provides essential troubleshooting tools without the complications of Windows recovery environments. Utilities like GParted, Memtester, Foxclone, and Clonezilla are available for managing file systems, testing memory, and recovering data. Setting up a live version of Linux is straightforward, involving formatting a USB drive and flashing a live ISO. Linux Mint Xfce Edition is noted for its user-friendliness, while tools like Ventoy allow multiple ISOs on a single drive for versatility. A live Linux setup offers a familiar desktop experience and a suite of recovery tools, making it a valuable resource even for non-Linux users.