Linux isn't a second-hand operating system anymore. It used to be a choice for weak hardware or hardcore enthusiasts who didn't like the direction that primary OSes like Windows or macOS were heading. Currently, a lot of Windows users are flocking to Linux, trying their hands on distros in search of something that feels familiar to their previous operating systems.
For some, it's a simple way to escape all the bloatware and tracking that Microsoft is adamant about putting into the OS. However, it takes some time to adjust to Linux. Over time, I've started to make some permanent tweaks to each Linux distribution that I try or use regularly. These tweaks make it a lot easier to work with and not worry about how to get things done, the Windows way.
Picking the right distro
Or the correct desktop environment
Not all Linux distributions are created equal. As a Windows user, you are used to a consistent experience that doesn't change with versions. On the other hand, each Linux distribution has a different approach to what it wants to offer to its users. Some strive to be the best-looking Linux distribution, while others might focus on gaming-friendliness, compatibility with older hardware, or a developer-focused design.
As a novice user, you should look for something simple like Ubuntu or Zorin OS. Ubuntu uses a GNOME desktop environment that is frictionless and easy to understand. It has a left-side aligned taskbar where you can pin apps and access them. Zorin OS is even better, as it tries to appeal to Windows users much more.
It's got that familiar app launcher (start menu) design on the left, the quick settings panel on the right, with a bottom-positioned taskbar. Zorin OS is much easier to customize in terms of appearance than Ubuntu. Even if you've downloaded and set up a distro and aren't happy with the design, you can switch to a different desktop environment like KDE Plasma or XFCE.
Some Linux distributions also surprise you with the level of customization you can do. On Windows, you can only change the theme or pick an accent color for the taskbar. But Linux gives you the freedom to adjust and create as many panels as you like. So, you can build a design from the ground up and experiment.
Making app installation convenient
Flatpak, Snap, and more
The biggest gripe for a Windows user switching to Linux is not knowing how to source apps. You must accept that not all apps will be available for it, but that doesn't mean you have to settle for less. FOSS alternatives are equally powerful and reliable, and you can use them in your workflow. Most popular services, especially web-based, are accessible via a browser too.
Installing apps without the terminal shouldn't be daunting, since you usually only need to run one command. Windows is convenient because you only need to download an executable installer and run it. On Linux, you have deb packages (for Debian) and the official repository for downloading most of the software.
Flatpaks are even better, and I love them. Some package managers have an option to search for and install Flatpaks with a GUI interface. So, you have multiple options for sourcing your apps or Windows app alternatives, and don't need to worry about grabbing everything from the terminal.
Timeshift for problematic scenarios
System restore alternative
System restore is an invaluable tool because it lets you reverse changes when Windows crashes, can't boot to the desktop, or struggles after a modification. It's possible with a restore point that the tool creates, so you can go back to the previous working state. I haven't had any problems with it for two decades, and Linux users can also enjoy the same feature with Timeshift.
Once set up, the tool automatically takes system snapshots that can even include your personal files if you configure it beforehand. When your Linux system encounters a problem, you can use it from the GRUB menu or from inside the operating system. It'll save you from a daunting reinstall that can easily waste 2–3 hours.
It's a tool that's not part of Ubuntu's default app suite but should be. I hope future versions of all the popular Linux distributions include the feature instead of forcing users to search for it.
Creating aliases
No need to type long commands
Even if you try to avoid it, the terminal is an integral part of Linux. Interacting with the terminal is time-consuming when you have to type long commands, but aliases can save you time. An alias is simply renaming a long command to a short one.
So, if you want to update all packages of your system, you can create an update alias called "upd" that runs the sudo apt upgrade && sudo apt update command. It requires a one-time configuration, and after that, you can use short, simple words for a difficult-to-type command.
Run Windows apps on Linux
It's possible
Some apps are really hard to discard from a personal or professional standpoint, and there are ample ways to get them working on your Linux system. There's the popular option, like Wine, that works differently from virtualization software like WinApps.
You can run old apps without any problem using these tools, but new versions and apps can be a bit of a challenge. Wine or other virtualization apps I mentioned aren't perfect, and you might face launch issues with some. Regardless, it doesn't hurt to try, and you might find success with one tool, if not others.
Get comfortable with Linux
Linux isn't a dystopian operating system anymore, and the sheer distro variety can keep you engaged for years. A fresh installation doesn't ship with all the tools and features you get on a Windows computer, but essential stuff like a browser, a configurable desktop and appearance, and an app store is already there.
These simple tweaks can help you get comfortable with the news, and you can search for and download dozens of tools that boost your productivity. I highly recommend using Timeshift and aliases as they really improve the overall Linux experience. You can also make some performance tweaks with systemctl and other tools to get the best out of the machine.