My Linux Lite disk (DVD) simply refuses to run live - lots of 'Linux jargon' loads and after several minutes it just hangs! Then I attempted to install it and ran into another issue "No root file system defined"? The 'coup de gras' was when no one on the LL forum could tell me if it can support a Canon i950 printer. So I give up - say what you will about Windows, but it just works!
+1. Don't let one negative experience sour your interest in another OS. If I did that I'd still be on Windows 7 too.
Light Linux is not a leading distribution, and probably has less than average hardware support. Hardware compatiblity is probably why LL didn't work for you, and in fact it is the achilles heel of Linux in general. Try leading distros like Ubuntu, Mint, Manjaro, MX, you will probably have better luck. Or just stay with what works: Windows. I must admit that Windows works better for me than Linux does, in most areas, but I have an emotional incompatiblity with Windows.
I too think it’s a pity to give up after just one bad experience. Maybe the more mainstream distros might not be your answer either. I did a quick look for Canon drivers and most were in third party repos which are often not advisable and several years old. If you feel like another go try a couple of distos that are purpose designed for a wide range of hardware. Kanotix is one. “Kanotix is a rock-solid Linux based on Debian, which contains the newest packages and recognizes more modern hardware than any other operating system in use today.” https://iso.kanotix.com/ Then there is ALT which is designed for corporate deployment. https://getalt.org/en/alt-kworkstation/ I remember my first trial and error experiences coming for Windows XP. It’s not difficult, just different but ultimately your perseverance will be rewarded.
Printers often work on linux with generic drivers, they don't always need the specific or official drivers. Unfortunately, trial and error might be the only way to know...
@zapjb,@Krusty,@shmu26,@Gringo95... So as not to rush to judgement I'm going to have a go with Lubuntu, Mint, and Kanotix (as time permits). Cheers...
Sorry for the repetition. I prefer Windows to Linux. I do have Linux Mint Cinnamon in a multi-boot situation but it gets only occasional use.
I've tried to wean myself off Windows with Linux for several years but never could reach that place to make a clean break. A love/hate relationship can last in perpetuity.
I'd highly recommend Linux Mint as it recognizes a lot of devices and (largely) works out of the box. It's a great introductory distro and fairly user friendly. If you're operating on limited resources and don't mind a bit of mish-mash, I'd also heartily recommend Peppermint OS.