So, I finally decided, after years of putting it off, to try out Linux, specifically Pop_OS. I was waiting for another SSD so it would live on its own hard drive on my computer. Today it arrives.

I first heard about it from Emily (I hope this doesn’t offend anyone, just adding for clarity in case some aren’t aware, but formerly Anthony before her transition) on Linus Tech Tips a long time ago. It seemed like an interesting OS, but being the hater of change I am (ironic that I just made a huge change dropping Reddit and love it so far), I kept telling myself, “Yeah yeah yeah, I will try Linux at some point.”

So, does anyone else using Pop_OS have any advice for setting it up that isn’t in the online docs?

  • I switched right before Windows 11 released after using it on and off in either VMs or on my laptop (that I rarely used). What really helped was all the Proton stuff that Valve was doing, which meant that one of my only excuses for not just getting a second drive to put linux on as primary boot was gone. Been great since then! Enjoy the new experience and once you get past the “how do I do [windows thing] in linux” phase make sure you explore all the cool new stuff you can do in linux that isn’t easy in Windows (like package management for installs and upgrades)!

    • That is one of the reasons I am making the jump. With them closing out support for 21H2, even though I am on 22H2, it’s only a matter of time before they pull the sneaky, “Oh, we updated this for you! You are so very welcome! Enjoy Windows 11 against your will!” like they have in the past. So, best to see if I prefer linux long term.