10 common misunderstandings among Linux newbies

You can improve your initial impression of Linux by learning more about the most common mistakes new users make.

Switching to a new operating system is a completely new experience. Due to changes in interface and functionality, it may take some time to explore and understand the new environment you are working with.

Compared to Windows and macOS, which rely primarily on a graphical user interface, or GUI, Linux is more of a command-line-based operating system. This is one of the reasons why new Linux users often get confused and make beginner mistakes that ultimately affect their experience.

To get the most out of your new Linux device, here are 10 misconceptions you should avoid as a Linux newbie.

Error 1. Avoid using the terminal

Terminal is a core Linux utility. Once you understand it, it is the most important and convenient tool for performing all major operations in the operating system.

For example, in Windows, you can perform most functions, such as updating the system or installing software, through the GUI. But in Linux, you are better off performing these tasks with the help of the terminal.

You may be inclined to avoid using this command line feature at first because you are used to GUI-based systems. Another reason may be that people mistakenly believe that the terminal is difficult to use and can be frustrating with its complex commands and fairly basic interface.

But, in reality, it's more efficient and powerful than GUI-based systems if you try and learn how to use it correctly. Not only do you save time, but you also enjoy an advanced user experience.

Error 2, trying to run the EXE file

EXE is the default format for executable files on Windows and MS-DOS systems. You can use these files for software installation. The bad news is that these files are not designed to run on Linux.

The process of downloading and installing applications is different on Linux. Before downloading a package from the Internet, you must check for the correct extension according to your distribution. It can be a DEB for Ubuntu or an RPM for Fedora. You can execute EXE files on Linux, but this requires some configuration on your part.

Error 3. Frequent use of Root

Linux hides system administrator-level details by default to ensure privacy and security. Administrator-level access to a Linux system is called root. Most functions, such as shutdown and restart, do not require root privileges. So you don't need to use sudo (superuser do) before every command.

If you use root too often, you may damage your operating system. This is because root grants applications access to sensitive system-level files. Any changes in these files can cause the entire operating system to crash. Therefore, it is best to use root only when necessary.

Error 4. Selecting an inappropriate distribution

Linux comes in a variety of distributions, offering different features and experiences. Some distributions are specific to certain tasks, such as security auditing, while others are general-purpose. Choosing the right distro is the most confusing step for Linux beginners.

Before installing a distribution, you should always do some research and compare it with other distributions. In order to find the best distribution for you, it's important to understand your usage needs and preferences.

Error 5, looking for installation files instead of repositories

As mentioned above, you need an EXE file to install software on Windows. You would probably follow the same practice on Linux to install applications. While you can find installation files for Linux applications, a better approach is to use a repository.

On Linux, you install applications through repositories. Installation files are saved, published, secured, and maintained in a repository on the remote server.

The benefit of installing applications through these repositories is that you do not have to manually find, download and run the installation files. You just enter the package manager command in the terminal and it will automatically download and install the files through the repository.

You can also check out Snap and Flatpak for quick and easy app installation.

Mistake 6. Using Wine instead of trying to apply alternatives

If you switch from Windows to Linux, you have to get used to the features and software it offers. You can use Wine to run Windows software and games on Linux, and it can help new users adapt to Linux.

However, relying too much on Wine is inappropriate for many reasons. First, applications running on Wine are less stable and efficient. Second, excellent open source alternatives are available for almost all popular Windows applications.

These alternatives are completely free most of the time. So, avoid relying on Wine to run Windows software and fully immerse yourself in the Linux experience.

Mistake 7. Thinking it is absolutely safe

Most users switch to Linux because it is more secure and privacy-friendly. The Linux system architecture makes it difficult for third-party files to access superuser permissions, making it more secure than Windows.

With this kind of reputation, you might be completely unconcerned about security, thinking that your system is secure enough against any threat. But this is not the case as threats and viruses continue to evolve as technology evolves.

Therefore, being too carefree about security after switching to Linux is a serious mistake that you should not make. Avoid downloading suspicious torrents and files to stay safe.

Related: 6 Reasons Why Linux Don’t Need Antivirus Software or Firewall https://www.linuxmi.com/linux-not-use-anti-virus-software-or-firewall.html

Mistake 8. Thinking that Linux and Ubuntu are the same

If you have only recently learned about Linux, you may think that Linux and Ubuntu are the same. But actually, they are two different things. Linux is the kernel that helps the operating system (basically software) interact with the hardware, while Ubuntu is a Linux distribution, which means it is an operating system based on the Linux kernel.

Since Linux is open source, you can easily customize it to create new versions. Distros like Ubuntu and Manjaro are operating systems built on top of Linux and come with custom features.

Error 9. Run any command found online

The Linux terminal is a powerful tool that can potentially grant superuser access to applications. It is important to realize the importance of using terminal commands to avoid security incidents.

You must come across various commands on the network for installing applications or updates. Of course it is impossible to memorize all the commands without referring to guides on the web, but running any command you find online can be dangerous as it may contain security threats to your system.

Even a single line command can exploit your PC and the accounts stored on it. Therefore, it’s best to make sure you only search for commands on reputable websites to stay safe.

Error 10. Sharing Linux file format with Windows users

Sharing Linux files with Windows users is a frustrating mistake you should avoid. You need to understand that Linux and Windows are functionally and environmentally different.

Linux and Windows software also have different file extensions. For example, if you use an MS Office alternative on Linux to edit text, files created in that application may not convert well in MS Word, and vice versa. The same goes for almost every other Linux application alternative to popular Windows software.

While these alternatives try their best to help you export files in a format that is compatible with other operating systems, you are bound to encounter exceptions.

Mistakes are the key to learning Linux

If you have just transitioned to Linux or plan to switch to Linux, these points will save you a lot of time.

Linux Newbies are often fed a lot of misconceptions about Linux that are simply not correct. Before installing a Linux-based operating system, it is crucial to clear up these myths.

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