9 Tips for New Linux Users

New Linux users who have made a switch from macOS or Windows might find that the learning curve can be a bit steep. Desktop environments, different methods to install software, and even file managers take time to crack.

However, you can become a Linux power user by taking a proactive approach. Read this how-to guide that has the basic tips and learn how you can be more efficient with Linux.

Tip #1 – Master the Command Line

The command line application is one of the first things every new Linux user should learn. Terminal is a gateway that gives users more access to the operating system if you know when to use which command.

By using Terminal, people can connect to Wi-Fi, edit text files, and do other work. Learning keyboard shortcuts is also recommended as they save time and improve efficiency.

Tip #2 – Learn Keyboard Shortcuts

Speaking of keyboard shortcuts, you should not limit yourself to just Terminal. There are a lot of different combinations, but memorizing the most common shortcuts should be your priority.

For example, Super + Tab switches applications via the Launcher, Super + Shift + 1 to 9 opens a new window in the application. Tapping Alt will open the HUD, and you can reveal the application menu by holding the Alt key. Alt + Tab switches between applications.

If you have used a different OS before, you should be familiar with some shortcuts. Even if it takes time to learn some keyboard shortcuts, do not hurry and take as much as you need.

Tip #3 – Run Ubuntu on a Live USB Stick

You can carry the operating system with you. Install a Live CD to a bootable USB stick and use Ubuntu on most computers. Just make sure that the USB stick can boot live drives and fits the port. In addition, you can also add your most-used portable applications that can be added to most computers instantly as well.

Tip #4 – Install Full Upgrade

In most instances, applications and the OS itself should update automatically. However, there are times when something goes wrong, and the upgrade cannot finish.

Check the update manager regularly. If you see that some update packages are stuck, it means that a specific application will not update properly. Use the “sudo apt full-upgrade” (no quotes) command line to initiate the update process after removing these unnecessary packages.

Tip #5 – Shut Down Unresponsive Processes

Every operating system has issues with unresponsive applications. There are instances when users have to restart the computer to restore the system. But in most cases, dealing with the unresponsive process fixes the problem.

You have a couple of different ways to shut down unresponsive applications on Linux. An “X,” which is a closing button, is the simplest way. However, if an application does not respond, you will need to use the System Monitor, similar to Task Manager on Windows. You can kill the processes from the System Monitor.

Tip #6 – Install New Graphic Drivers

The most recent graphic drivers are necessary for graphics-heavy tasks. Gaming and video-editing are two examples of such tasks. Linux is an open-source operating system, and almost every Linux distribution ships with open-source drivers as well.

However, graphic drivers are a bit different. In most cases, open-source drivers are not a hindrance when you want to run and perform basic tasks, but failure is possible in graphics-heavy tasks.

If you notice that your OS is not up to par when you are certain things on the computer, a lack of proper graphic drivers may be the root of the problem. Check for compatibility, and if the system is lacking drivers, install them.

Tip #7 – Check Different Desktop Environments

Linux offers multiple different desktop environments. Ubuntu vanilla, Kubuntu, Ubuntu Budgie, and Xubuntu are just a few examples. You can select a new environment after installing and rebooting the computer. It comes down to personal preference, so see which environment you find the best and stick to that environment.

Tip #8 – Utilize Swap Partition

Users that want to boost their Linux performance can utilize a swap partition. The trick is to manage extra hard drive space and RAM. If you have plenty of available disk space, you can use that storage and utilize the HDD for computer memory.

Tip #9 – Try Different Browsers

Do not miss new releases for Linux. The OS is not as popular as Windows, so you may not find official releases for certain applications that you would like. However, Microsoft has announced that its Edge browser will be available soon. It might be that your current internet browser is lackluster in performance, and you would like to try something new.

This could be a perfect opportunity for that. And Microsoft Edge is not the only application that was released or will be released soon for Linux. Keep closer tabs on the news surrounding the OS.