I started using Linux daily in 2013 supporting a Toronto agency that ran their dev machines on Ubuntu. Today, half my home setup is Linux: my home server runs Ubuntu Server and my workshop laptop runs Pop!_OS. If you have ever wondered what the hype is about, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is the right place to start.
Here is the exact path I walk first-timers down.
Why Ubuntu instead of another Linux distribution?
Three reasons:
- Largest user base – any problem you hit has been answered on a forum. Search “ubuntu plus problem” and you will find the fix in 30 seconds.
- Longest support – 24.04 LTS gets updates until 2029 (10 years with Ubuntu Pro free for personal use).
- Easiest install – the Ubiquity installer is the most polished in the Linux world.
Alternatives worth knowing: Linux Mint (even more Windows-like), Fedora 41 (more cutting-edge), Pop!_OS (great for gaming laptops with Nvidia). All fine. Ubuntu is the safest start.
How do I try Ubuntu without installing?
- Download Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Desktop ISO from ubuntu.com. About 5.7GB.
- Get a USB drive 8GB or larger. It will be wiped.
- Install Rufus (Windows) or balenaEtcher (Mac/Linux/Win). Create a bootable USB from the ISO.
- Boot from USB. Restart, hit F12/F2/Esc at boot for the boot menu, pick the USB.
- Choose “Try Ubuntu.” Lands you on the live desktop. Nothing is installed – test it, change your mind anytime by rebooting.
Can I run Ubuntu and Windows on the same PC?
Yes – dual-boot. Back up Windows first (my backup guide covers Macrium). Shrink your Windows partition in Disk Management to free 80GB+. Boot the Ubuntu USB, pick “Install Ubuntu alongside Windows” – it handles the partitioning automatically.
Reboot: GRUB menu lets you pick OS at startup. Both keep your files – Ubuntu can read Windows NTFS partitions natively.
What desktop environment does Ubuntu use?
GNOME 46 by default in Ubuntu 24.04. The layout:
- Activities (top-left or Super key) – shows all open windows, workspaces, app drawer
- Dock (bottom or left) – favorited apps and running apps
- Top bar – clock, system tray, network/sound/power
- Settings – system preferences (Wi-Fi, displays, accounts)
Feels closer to macOS than Windows. Takes a day to adjust.
How do I install software on Ubuntu?
Three paths:
- App Center (built-in store) – Chrome, VS Code, Slack, Discord, Spotify, Telegram. Mostly Snap and Flatpak packages. One click.
- Terminal apt – the classic.
sudo apt install vlc. Faster, more software available. - .deb files from vendor websites. Double-click in Files to install (or use App Center). This is how I install Chrome (download from google.com).
What terminal commands do I actually need to know?
These ten cover 90% of beginner use:
cd folder– change directoryls– list filespwd– where am Icp file dest– copymv file dest– move/renamerm file– delete (no undo, careful)sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade– update everythingsudo apt install package– install softwareman command– read the manualq– quit out of man or less
What works on Linux that I use on Windows?
Almost everything mainstream: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Slack, Discord, Zoom, Teams, Spotify, Steam, OBS Studio, VLC, GIMP, Krita, Blender, Audacity, Telegram, Signal, Bitwarden, NordVPN, Notion (snap), Obsidian.
What does NOT work: Microsoft Office desktop (use my free office suite picks), Adobe Creative Cloud, some games with anti-cheat (Valorant, League). Proton GE handles many other games via Steam.
What is the catch with Linux?
Three honest annoyances:
- Printers can be finicky. Modern HP/Canon work great. Older Brother/Lexmark sometimes need driver hunts.
- Fingerprint readers on laptops are hit or miss
- HDR support on monitors is still patchy in 2026, much better than two years ago
For setting up an old machine as a permanent Linux device, see my home server guide. For dual-booting safely, my backup software guide is mandatory. For coding on Linux, my free code editors roundup all work great on Ubuntu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my games run on Linux?
Most Steam games via Proton. Anti-cheat protected competitive shooters (Valorant, Fortnite kernel-level) usually do not.
How much RAM does Ubuntu need?
4GB minimum, 8GB comfortable, 16GB+ for development. Lighter than Windows 11.
Can I run Windows programs on Linux?
Some via Wine or Bottles. Microsoft Office: kind of. Adobe: barely. Easier to dual-boot or use a Windows VM.
Is Linux really free?
Yes – both the OS and most apps. Donations welcome but never required.
What is the difference between Ubuntu and Linux Mint?
Mint uses the Cinnamon desktop, very Windows-like layout. Ubuntu uses GNOME, more macOS-like. Both run the same software underneath.
