Best Of 2012: Linux

Our Best Of 2012 series continues with a roundup of the most popular Linux posts from throughout the year. From the best distributions to the reasons why Linux hasn’t been more widely adopted, we have you covered.

Five Best Linux Distributions

Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve been using Linux systems for years, you probably have an opinion on what the best distribution is. “Best” is obviously a relative term, and we understand that what’s best for beginners may not be best for advanced users. Still, Linux distributions come in all different shapes, sizes, complexities, styles and types. Let’s take a look at our top five distros.
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Turn An Old Computer Into A Networked Backup Or Streaming Machine

You’ve heard the word “server” thrown around a lot, but it’s usually in the context of websites or big companies that have a lot of data to store. In reality, a server can be just as useful in your home. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to create your own server at home that you can put in the closet and leave on 24/7, ready to stream, download or back up at a moment’s notice.
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The Good And Bad Lessons Ubuntu Taught Me About Linux And Windows

A long-time Windows user and an avid gamer, I never felt the need to install Linux on any of my systems. That was until I required a server box to handle automated build compilation, source control and backups for my programming work. The idea of buying another copy of Windows for a machine I’d never be in front of seemed ludicrous and so a copy of Ubuntu was installed instead. Having used Windows and Linux side-by-side for almost a year has given me an entirely new perspective on both operating systems.
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How To Dual Boot Linux On Your Mac

A fast, refreshed, and completely awesome Mac is within your reach, but Mountain Lion isn’t the way to get there. If you want to maximise the power of your machine, it’s time to move to Linux.
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Top 10 Command Line Tools For Linux And Mac

Typing commands into a terminal may seem tedious, but with the right tools, the command line can be incredibly powerful. Here are our favourite command line tools that do awesome things you just can’t match in a GUI.
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Zorin Is A Linux OS That Looks And Behaves Like Windows 7

If you’re building a computer for a relative or friend and wish to avoid the cost of Windows 7 you might look into Zorin — the Linux OS’ elements such as the taskbar, file system, start menu and desktop all work just like Windows. This combined with Zorin having the WINE Windows Emulator preinstalled means that the end user can install Windows programs easily.
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How To Find The Perfect Linux Distribution For You

Linux is a badarse open-source operating system. Take it from a card-carrying Linux lover. But it’s not without problems. One such problem: There are nearly six hundred different versions of Linux out there — an incredibly overwhelming number to even the most experienced of Linux users. If you’ve tinkered with Linux a bit and want to move beyond the basics, here’s how to narrow down that selection and find the distribution that fits your needs.
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What’s New In Ubuntu Linux 12.10 ‘Quantal Quetzal’

Ubuntu released ‘Quantal Quetzal’, the next iteration of its well-regarded Linux distribution, today. Here’s what you’ll find in the new version.
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Cheap Tabloid Tricks: The Truth About Linux, Open Source And The Media

Linux and open source technology should be a good news story for everyone. However, the way these topics are presented in the media often leaves enthusiasts unhappy. There is a widespread belief that open source alternatives are neglected in favour of commercial products; that coverage often distorts the facts and exaggerates conflict rather than offering insight; and that the right-wing bias of much Australian media dooms the open source community to being dismissed as a kook minority led by some cult figure from Scandinavia whose name no-one can pronounce. The reality is more complex, as reality usually is.
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Lifehacker Pack For Linux: Our List Of The Best Linux Apps

Linux may not be the most popular OS around, but that doesn’t mean we’re going to sit here and ignore it. Here are our favourite downloads for everyone’s favourite open source operating system.
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