What is: Linux
Linux is an operating system and it comes in many flavours.
From the web: Linux is an open-source Unix-like operating system based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991, by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged as a Linux distribution.
The fact that you are reading this shows the reach of Linux. it is widely used by websites as the hosting operating system. In fact this website is hosted on a Linux server.
Desktop: “Linux has evolved to a real contender as a replacement to Windows.” This is the mantra that Linux fans repeat every year but it never really does catch on. Its strange that such a powerful, secure, well supported operating system has not gone mainstream yet. This is no failing on the Operating System (OS) but more about the dominance of Windows as the go to desktop operating system. You can download many different version of Linux, all with their own unique take on the Desktop Experience. Typically a Linux distribution can be downloaded free of charge, burnt to a DVD, or flashed to a USB drive and you can try it without even taking Windows or MacOS off your device. These are known as LIVE images, but they also have the option of allowing you to install them if you want to.
Linux Mint: For Windows users, Linux mint is probably the easiest distribution to switch to. It is VERY similar to the Windows layout.
The distribution comes with plenty of applications to get you up and running very quickly, with Libre Office installed, the Firefox web browser, access to thousands of Open Source applications as well, and a similar appearance to windows, the transition is extremely easy. More information here: www.linuxmint.com
Ubuntu: Probably one of the widest known distributions of Linux, including server variants. Slightly less common desktop with Windows, but still very easy to use and well supported. Again it comes with an office package ready to go as well as a browser, access to thousands of Open Source applications as well.
As you can see the interface is a little different but is still very easy to navigate. More information here: www.ubuntu.com
Elementary OS: For those that like the MacOS look, Elementary OS can provide the solution.
Very similar to other distributions, office package as standard, modern browser and a central “Dock” make it easy to transition from MacOS to Linux: More information here: www.elementary.io
Linux can bring a new lease of life to old equipment. The resources used by Linux mean that there is a distribution available for even the most low powered laptops and devices. A good example of this, an iMac from 2009, unable to have the latest MacOS, means that much of the functionality, especially with web browsing is lost. Switch over to Linux and you have a machine more than capable of providing many more years use without breaking the bank. With up-to date security and web browsers, access to Microsoft 365 through the browser can mean that old device suddenly becomes productive again.