What do I need to know to run Linux as my desktop?

[Matthew Crews]

On 4/17/22 07:14, Keith Smith via PLUG-discuss wrote:
> Had to move to Windows for business reasons about 5 or 6 years ago.  I 
> see no reason that I cannot return to Linux on my desktop.
> 
> I use Ubuntu for servers so I am thinking of moving to Ubuntu desktop 
> which is Gnome.  Please no flame wars.
> 
> My question is what do I need to know to run Linux as my desktop.  I 
> know I will need to understand and have working knowledge of CUPS, 
> however what else?  I am hoping to be able to get my scanner working.
> 
> What else?
> 
> I am using VirtualBox so I can do a trial run.

The only three things that you really need to watch out for are age of 
hardware, networking drivers and graphics drivers.

Age of Hardware: Ubuntu doesn't usually work with cutting edge hardware, 
but anything thats around a year or so older should be fine.

Networking: Since you plan on using Ubuntu, give it a go with the live 
CD and see if networking works out-of-the-box. If it does, you are golden.

Graphics: If you are using NVidia graphics, it can be a bit complicated 
to get up and running, but (IIRC) Ubuntu does a good job setting you up. 
If you are using Intel graphics, you will work out of the box. If you 
are using AMD graphics, the main hiccup is if you are using an older 
card. Newer cards should just work. Older cards (more than 5 years) will 
require some work.

-Matt