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Linux: Six ways to use it without the command line
Summary
The article explains that you can use Linux without the terminal by choosing user-friendly distributions and relying on graphical tools such as software centers, file managers, and settings panels.
Content
Many guides emphasize the Linux terminal, but the article notes you can use Linux without touching the terminal if you have a graphical desktop environment. It outlines six practical approaches that rely on graphical tools rather than command-line commands. The author names several beginner-friendly distributions and desktop environments that ship with GUI tools. The piece also describes options for running Windows applications and games through graphical wrappers and virtualization.
Key points:
- You can manage files with graphical file managers such as Nautilus, Dolphin, or Thunar, which handle common tasks like copy, rename, search, and bulk operations.
- Most distributions provide graphical software centers for searching, installing, and updating applications without using the terminal.
- Beginner-friendly distributions mentioned include Ubuntu, Linux Mint (Cinnamon), Pop!_OS, Q4OS, Zorin OS, and elementary OS, which aim to present a familiar, GUI-first interface.
- Desktop environments such as GNOME, KDE, and Cinnamon offer settings and customization tools that let users change themes, wallpapers, icons, and keyboard shortcuts via a graphical interface.
- System settings (network, display, printers) can be adjusted from settings panels or control centers like openSUSE's YaST without command-line use.
- Running Windows apps and games can be done with graphical Wine wrappers (Heroic Launcher, Bottles), virtualization software (VirtualBox, VMware), or compatibility layers like Proton for Steam.
Summary:
Relying on graphical tools lets people perform most everyday tasks on Linux without learning the terminal, which can lower barriers for new users. Many distributions and desktop environments include GUI alternatives for software installation, file management, and system settings. Undetermined at this time.
