Top 5 Mistakes Made by Linux First-Timers

If you're coming to Linux from Windows, for example, you're used to the hunt-and-peck approach to finding new software packages online--and then, doubtless, paying dearly for them. One of the beauties of Linux, however, is that it makes this process much easier--not to mention generally free.

Most every Linux distribution has a package manager, and that's one of the first things you need to find. In Ubuntu, it's the Ubuntu Software Center, and it is your friend. With the package manager, you'll be able to find just about any software you need, and probably for free.

4. Fearing the Command Line

It's a testament to how far Linux--and operating systems in general--have come that many people have never had to use a command line. With distributions like Ubuntu Maverick Meerkat, you still won't have to, for most purposes.

Don't live in fear of the command line, though. It's no more difficult to type in a few short commands than it is to click through the necessary screens in a GUI, and it can be both faster and more effective. I'm not saying you need to seek it out, necessarily, but if something comes up that requires it, don't stress out.