this post was submitted on 18 Jan 2026
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Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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Really good pieces of advice. Thanks!
I've definitely heard horror stories from people on Lemmy talking about how Windows fucked up their PC, as much as they tried to quarantine it like the pathogen it is.
So just from your comment, here are my ideas from best to worst:
Gift them new laptops with Linux Mint pre-loaded (as well as their favorite browser, and possibly LibreOffice).
If they have a desktop, gift them second HDD/SSD with the above.
If they have a laptop, gift them external SSD with the above.
Gift them a USB with the above.
Set up GUI dual boot between W11 and Mint.
I know it's difficult to have the best of both worlds between Windows and Linux. I'm stubborn though, and don't want them to suffer under Microslop so long as the company keeps its current trajectory.
We as Linux advocates need to find ways to make it easier for others to onboard. Not seeing a lot of that sentiment in the comments (excluding you ofc).