What is Linux?
Linux is a freely available operating system that uses its own set of applications and is generally available for PCs.
What are the advantages of Linux?
The main advantages are cost, security, and variety.
It is not "Windows". It is "different".
Most people stay away from better software simply because it is "different". The bottom line is that if you are considering the switch to a different operating system, you must be prepared to take the time learn something new. Read manuals, use help, and ask for advice.
What are the differences in the Linux version Gigastrand sells?
There are 2 distributions that Gigastrand carries: freespire and LinuxMint.
LinuxMint is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution that is actively being developed.
LinuxMint comes in 2 flavors: Main Edition with the Gnome Desktop and KDE Community Edition with the K Desktop Environment (KDE).
freespire is a KDE/Ubuntu based distribution that is no longer under development.
Which one is the best?
freespire is the most popular. However, while it was a good distribution a few years ago, but is an older distribution and not one we would necessarily choose for a Linux beginner.
That leaves LinuxMint. Version 7 and above has been excellent as far as useability is concerned and Mint Install now has a fantastic GUI. For older PCs freespire and LinuxMint 5 are still good options.
Which version does Gigastrand Suggest?
LinuxMint KDE is by our standards the most user-friendly so that would be our pick.
You sell the KDE Community Edition of LinuxMint, why not the others?
Gigastrand chooses distributions based on user-friendliness. While there are many fine distributions out there - including the other community editions on the LinuxMint website - we do not want to overwhelm the new Linux user with multiple options. Most would agree the ones we offer are great starting points.
Why do you charge for a free product?
When you purchase a Linux product from Gigastrand, you are not only purchasing a product, you support the distribution and the projects Gigastrand offers. When you purchase LinuxMint, we give money back to the LinuxMint project.
Linux is a freely available operating system that uses its own set of applications and is generally available for PCs.
What are the advantages of Linux?
The main advantages are cost, security, and variety.
- Because it is freely available the cost is low.
- Because anyone can view and modify the source code of Linux, it is far more secure.
- Finally, because anyone with the knowledge can make a distribution, you have a wide variety of distributions.
It is not "Windows". It is "different".
Most people stay away from better software simply because it is "different". The bottom line is that if you are considering the switch to a different operating system, you must be prepared to take the time learn something new. Read manuals, use help, and ask for advice.
What are the differences in the Linux version Gigastrand sells?
There are 2 distributions that Gigastrand carries: freespire and LinuxMint.
LinuxMint is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution that is actively being developed.
LinuxMint comes in 2 flavors: Main Edition with the Gnome Desktop and KDE Community Edition with the K Desktop Environment (KDE).
freespire is a KDE/Ubuntu based distribution that is no longer under development.
Which one is the best?
freespire is the most popular. However, while it was a good distribution a few years ago, but is an older distribution and not one we would necessarily choose for a Linux beginner.
That leaves LinuxMint. Version 7 and above has been excellent as far as useability is concerned and Mint Install now has a fantastic GUI. For older PCs freespire and LinuxMint 5 are still good options.
Which version does Gigastrand Suggest?
LinuxMint KDE is by our standards the most user-friendly so that would be our pick.
You sell the KDE Community Edition of LinuxMint, why not the others?
Gigastrand chooses distributions based on user-friendliness. While there are many fine distributions out there - including the other community editions on the LinuxMint website - we do not want to overwhelm the new Linux user with multiple options. Most would agree the ones we offer are great starting points.
Why do you charge for a free product?
When you purchase a Linux product from Gigastrand, you are not only purchasing a product, you support the distribution and the projects Gigastrand offers. When you purchase LinuxMint, we give money back to the LinuxMint project.