It's important to know what not to do once you've installed the Linux operating system, especially if you're a beginner. Below we list the most common mistakes made after the first Linux installation!
It happens to all of us at some point – searching the internet for what to do after installing Linux. However, it is equally important to understand what steps you should not take to protect your newly installed system from any damage or harm. So, find out exactly how to maintain your new Linux!
To help all Linux users , from beginners to experts, we have listed some critical points of caution to keep in mind when working with your new installation. By avoiding these common mistakes and pitfalls, you can better ensure a more trouble-free experience as you explore the world of Linux !
1. Copy/paste random commands from the Internet
It's a common mistake for new users to copy and paste commands from the internet without understanding them. While it may not seem like a big deal, this exposes you to a lot of potential security risks, so it's best to avoid it if possible. If you're going to attempt such an endeavor, make sure you've done your research first – make sure the command doesn't contain malicious code or other hidden dangers!
See also: Royal Ransomware: Linux version targets VMware ESXi servers
Therefore, it is important to make an effort to understand a command before executing it. Linux commands can be complex, and it is difficult for beginners to immediately spot a command with malicious intent. However, if you learn to evaluate each command piece by piece and use the right keywords when searching online, then understanding what they do will not take you more than five minutes. It may seem tedious at first glance, but this small step makes all the difference in ensuring security!
The next time someone asks you to enter the command “sudo rm -rf –no-preserve-root /” into terminal , take a moment to search for it online before obeying the command.
2. Run all Linux commands as Root
Because Linux assumes that users know what they are doing, it rarely provides warnings before executing a command. This is especially true when executing commands as root. Consequently, one should be especially careful when choosing to perform all operations as root on this operating system platform.
sudo , su , and doas are powerful Linux commands that allow you to perform tasks as another user, usually root. While it may be necessary to run programs as root in some scenarios, adding 'sudo' before your command can often result in more damage than desired to your computer.
By including the terms “sudo” or “doas” before any command, you are giving the program full access to your system. This then gives it permission to do whatever it wants, such as wipe out an entire operating system. Malware often exploits this vulnerability and thus weakens a computer’s security.
Therefore, use sudo only when absolutely necessary – such as when you trust the program and its creators.
3. Randomly delete files in the Root Directory
To ensure the reliability of your Linux, it is important to never delete files located in any directory outside your home directory . Accidentally removing critical configuration and system files can cause unpredictable program behavior and render your device completely unusable – as evidenced by a black screen with no way out! Instead, store all personal documents within the designated home directory for optimal machine stability.
4. Add unknown PPAs and Package Sources
The open-source nature of most Linux means that their source code is rigorously scrutinized by many eyes, ensuring that any malicious lines or vulnerabilities are quickly identified. However, since there are so many pieces of code published online, and monitoring every line of code for potential threats can be impossible – especially with unknown PPAs and third-party package sources – you should be extra careful when downloading from unknown places.
Software found in official distribution lists is maintained by hundreds of volunteers who ensure that their code remains trustworthy. Generally, you can trust such programs and install them without any hesitation. However, what happens when an untrusted person publishes their code?
It's important to review the code before downloading it to your computer. If you're not sure how to read code, for now, put any installation on hold until the project gets more attention and partners who can guarantee that everything is safe and bug-free before installing.
5. Go back to Windows (or Distro-Hop)
Switching to Linux gives you an unimaginable level of control, but it can be intimidating for anyone who isn't familiar. While your initial reaction may be to go back to Windows, don't give up just yet – take some time to explore and play with Linux. You won't regret it!
If you're in a similar position, we have good news for you! Linux can be modified to look like Windows or even macOS with a little patience and following tutorials on YouTube. It's possible!
See also: New Linux malware installs cryptominers, DDoS bots
It is not recommended to frequently change distributions (distro-hop), as it can be a hindrance to the process of acclimating to Linux. Each Linux distribution family provides a unique set of tools and offers different desktop experiences, which makes this transition difficult.
With five package managers and a dozen desktop environments, it's no wonder so many people struggle when they first get started. To make the process easier, the best course of action is to choose a beginner-friendly distribution and commit to using it for at least several months. With a little patience and practice, you'll be an expert in no time!
6. Be afraid of the Command Line
Embrace the command line– it’s your true companion. If you’ve installed Linuxthinking that the terminal is unnecessary, think again! Sure, there may be some situations where typing commands isn’t necessary, but most of the time, if a serious issue arises – resorting to the terminal for help will be of utmost importance.
For decades, the command line has been a staple of Linux distributions, it's now almost unthinkable to separate them. Despite some efforts to reduce its use, the terminal remains a powerful part of this operating system.
7. Tell your friends to switch operating systems
After successfully installing a Linux on your machine, you've discovered its stability, adaptability, and all its other great features – and all for free! Now it's time to spread the word about this great operating system and introduce your friends and family to true freedom.
While it's perfectly acceptable to bring up Linux when the conversation arises, it's important not to make a habit of evangelizing its superiority over Windows in places where people are unlikely to be interested. After all, you don't want to turn into "that guy" who makes everyone else uncomfortable at social gatherings with his endless rhetoric about Linux!
8. Underestimating the power of backups
Don't let your system crash and start from scratch – ensure your files are protected just in case by having a backup plan. Programs can be very destructive to installations, potentially leaving you with a blank screen, but having something you can rely on in these situations will give you peace of mind that the important stuff will remain safe.
Even better, you can install a “snapshot” utility to capture an image of your system at specific points in time. When something goes wrong at some point later, the application will allow you to import the previously saved “image” and restore your device to its last saved state!
Installing a backup or snapshot on Linux is an effortless process, and the peace of mind it can give you is invaluable.
Installing Linux can be an exciting adventure, but also an adventure filled with potential pitfalls along the way if one is not careful enough while doing it! By following these simple tips, users will have no problem avoiding common mistakes when starting their journey into Linux computing ! With these tips in hand, users should feel more comfortable taking their first steps towards exploring all that Linux has to offer !
Source: makeuseof.com
