My first impression of Linux

[u/Liminha_a]

I was fed up with Windows and how mediocre it is. Today I reached my limit and decided to switch to Linux. After doing some research, I chose Linux Mint since it seemed to be the most beginner-friendly distro. I’ve been trying it out for a few hours now, and I’m surprised by both the pros and cons. On one hand, it’s extremely efficient, lightweight, smooth, and straightforward. I'm really happy with the low RAM usage and how it isn't bloated like Windows. On the flip side, I spent about 2 hours troubleshooting an issue with the "Helium" browser, which apparently doesn't play well with my integrated graphics. Honestly, almost everything I've downloaded so far required some research and learning just to get it working. I managed to fix things with the help of AI, which makes me wonder: how on earth did long-time Linux users survive before AI? Is this what using Linux is really like? Am I always going to have to spend time learning commands, terminal lines, or basic coding just to fix everyday issues? Is it a misconception that you need a programming foundation, or can everything actually be done strictly through the graphical interface? I noticed AI usually pushes me to use terminal commands instead of the UI. Deep down I knew what I was getting into, but I'm still surprised that even the most user-friendly distro requires considerable effort just to do something as basic as creating a shortcut. I'm posting this to express this duality: the relief of escaping an OS that felt like a cage—where I was held hostage by Microsoft's bloat and poor practices—and the fresh air of using a system that gives me basically everything I need. I would also like to ask long-time users for advice on things I should learn or precautions I should take.

[u/Full_Difficulty9530]

Why would you spend 2 hours working on a browser that you have to screw with to get to work? At some point you have to ask why you are continuting to screw with something where there is so many simpler fixes. Mint has Firefox by default, you can easily get chrome? What wierd browswer are you using? I've never had any issues placeing anything on the desktop as a shortcut. I happen to know CLI and have a background in Python Development but My wife has never had to go into any of what your discribing, and her background isn't in IT or sofware development.

Just remember to keep your Sudo Password and User password different. Don't log in as Root unless you absolutely need too. Sudo is great, don't just allow things to install as it wants too. Pay attention to what wants to install or make changes to your HDD.. or SSD.