I'd like to convert a Win7 PC to Linux, but...

Discussion in 'all things UNIX' started by pvsurfer, Jan 19, 2022.

  1. pvsurfer

    pvsurfer Registered Member

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    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!
     
  2. zapjb

    zapjb Registered Member

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    1 Distro & your'e done? If there's a next time & the LiveCD won't run, don't attempt to install it.
     
  3. Krusty

    Krusty Registered Member

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    +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.
     
  4. shmu26

    shmu26 Registered Member

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    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.
     
  5. Brian K

    Brian K Imaging Specialist

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    And even better on a SSD rather than a HD.
     
  6. Gringo95

    Gringo95 Registered Member

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    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.
     
  7. shmu26

    shmu26 Registered Member

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    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...
     
  8. pvsurfer

    pvsurfer Registered Member

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    Hey Brian, I get it. ;)
     
  9. pvsurfer

    pvsurfer Registered Member

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    @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...
     
  10. Brian K

    Brian K Imaging Specialist

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    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.
     
  11. ParadigmShift

    ParadigmShift Registered Member

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  12. aztony

    aztony Registered Member

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    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.
     
  13. Krusty

    Krusty Registered Member

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    I'll probably make my break once Win10 goes EOL.
     
  14. aztony

    aztony Registered Member

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    Gives you plenty of time to sort out your plan B.
     
  15. misterman2100

    misterman2100 Registered Member

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    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.
     
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