Linux Mint is one of the most user friendly versions of Linux to date. It is built on the Ubuntu system and centered around the desktop. If offers an easy to use, intuitive control system, and is the ideal starting point for those wanting to learn more about Linux.
Like Ubuntu, Mint can be used from a LiveCD, which is a system where a Linux desktop is simulated in your computer memory. It allows you to run Mint from the CD and try it out before installing it onto your system. This is an ideal way to “try before you buy” and has proved popular to those wanting to move from Windows.
To use the LiveCD just have it in your drive and set your BIOS to boot from CD. Then the Linux desktop will load and you can navigate the system and have a good look. You can do just about anything from the CD, except anything that would need writing to disk. It runs a little slower this way, but is so useful, it’s worth the wait.
Linux Mint isn’t trying to copy Windows. It uses familiarity to make the transition from Windows easier for new users. The desktop looks very similar, there is a taskbar, clock, a start menu in the bottom left, icons to describe functions, and many other little things that should make it seem a little more familiar.
One of the other main differences between Windows and Linux is software. Where Windows comes bare-bones, and you have to install software, Mint and Linux in general comes with a lot already built in. Firefox will be there, email clients, MP3 players, movie players, and everything you would need for a basic system.
Extra software can be downloaded in minutes and installed automatically onto a system. New software is referred to as a package in all versions of Linux, which is something to get used to. The in-built Software Manager is like a browser that finds software, drivers and anything else you would need. Installing anything is a matter of navigating to it, selecting install and letting the system take care of it. You can even select a number of packages and have them all install at once.
One of the highlights of using a Linux system is that you don't really have to worry about compatiblity. If the software meets the Linux standards, it should work with every version of it. You can install software safe in the knowledge that it will work, and work properly.
Mint is a very polished, thorough and well thought-out system. It is ideal for those wanting to explore an alternative to Windows. It has just about everything a home user would need built-in, and packages are easy to install if you need more. Overall, Mint is my personal favorite of the Linux versions available. It doesn’t have the massive resources of Ubuntu, but is softer and friendlier to use. It is Windows-like, but different enough to be distinct and unique.