If you are familiar with booting from a CD or flash drive, as you did when you installed windows, this is the same. If you’re not familiar, or don’t remember. Then, the best instructions I have found, are on “Lifewire”. Step by step, with the links to the download of the Linux Mint version. I recommend the Cinnamon 32 or 64 bit edition located there.

After downloading the Linux mint .iso, follow the three steps on the instructional. Upon completion, you will have a bootable usb drive to boot your computer with. Please consider, this “live” version of Linux is on a thumb drive, it will not be as fast as a regular install on a hard drive would be. So don’t judge it by its speed from the usb.

• I started using Linux 4 years ago. No regrets. It was easier than I ever dreamed, and I have truly enjoyed using it.
• There’s not one paid for program, on my computers.
• I replaced Microsoft Office, with Libre Office which contains the same components as Office.
• I use GIMP for graphics, which rivals Photoshop.
• Kdenlive is my free video editing software. Better than some commercial programs costing hundreds.
• No more fragmentation of the hard drive.
• Updates are sent out immediately when a problem or security issue is discovered.
• I can update when I wish.
• No antivirus subscriptions anymore. Linux has free programs if needed.
• No advertisements on “my” desktop.
• Only what “I” want on or in my computer.
• Simple backup and restore when needed.
• Best of all, it’s FREE!!
• I can choose, Chrome, Firefox, or other browsers as I wish.
• Complete control over what is on my machine. True freedom.
• I can’t think of anything negative, that I have run into.

Give it a try, see if its something you might like. If you have questions, ask. I’ll do my best to answer them. I will always have fond memories of Windows 7, but this is where I will stay. Linux may not be for everyone, but I love it.

Microsoft gave us Windows.
Linux, gave us the whole house!

Comments always welcome,