I’m trying to set up a Linux laptop for a friend who lives in another city. They have only ever used Windows, and likely won’t have easy access to fix issues (not that I’m an expert).

First off, is it a good idea to give them a Linux PC at all? Have others had good/bad experiences giving technophobes Linux?

Secondly, if I go ahead with it, what’s a good, stable, “safe” OS for a beginner? I’m shy of anything that’s a rolling release (e.g. Arch, Manjaro etc) as “bleeding edge” can break things more often than not. I’m leaning towards Debian or something Debian based. But I’ve also heard good things about Fedora.

If I was the one using the PC, I’d have installed Fedora, as I’ve heard it’s well-maintained. Then again there’s been some good buzz about Debian 12. What would your advice be? Thanks!

  • papertowels
    2·
    2 years ago

    Honestly, if you’re breathing new life into an old laptop for a technophobe, I’d consider installing chrome os on it. Easy to use, difficult to screw up.

    • piezoelectron@sopuli.xyzOP
      1·
      2 years ago

      This is actually a good shoot. Or maybe something like Gallium OS, but dunno if that’s still around haha.