Elementary OS

Elementary OS is a free community-created open-source operating system based on Ubuntu Linux. This highly customizable OS enables users of all knowledge levels to get a stable, fast, and Ubuntu LTS-compatible experience on desktop and laptop PCs, with a wide array of pre-installed apps and services that are used in many daily tasks both at home, school, and work.



It features its own theme, icons, applications, services, and GNOME desktop environment that are all highly customizable in accordance with perfectionist tendencies found in many other Linux-based operating systems. And since it requires a bare minimum of resources, this OS can provide a new life to an incredible variety of older PC machines, making them the home of a modern, stable, safe, and highly reliable operating system that will not crash or be targeted by malicious software.

Similarly like many other Linux-based distributions, Elementary OS for PC can be installed on modern PCs via 32-bit and 64-bit live DVD ISO images, enabling users to use this OS even without installing the entire operating system to the local storage. For faster and more streamlined use, users are recommended to load the live OS environment direct from fast USB flash drives.

Upon the first start, users have the option to check the PC environment by testing the core hardware, and then decide whether or not they want to install this OS on the local drive. The automated procedure of starting the live OS is simple and requires users to simply don’t touch the keyboard until OS gets up and running.

Once up and running, users can start exploring the OS interface that consists of a top panel with few shortcuts to important system services, an application launcher (dock) at the bottom of the screen, and a large desktop surface.

The OS comes with numerous preinstalled apps such as web browser (Midori), file manager (Nautilus), multi-protocol instant messenger (Empathy), archive manager (File Roller), email client (Gearz), disk partition editor, movie player, document viewer, image viewer, text editor, and many others. Of course, many other Linux LTS-compatible apps can be added to the OS via the integrated ed Software Center tool that can easily download new apps or update existing ones.

Elementary OS is 100% FREE and provides extraordinary levels of functionality to all PC users. Getting a new Linux OS up and running on any PC with a live session loaded directly from a DVD or USB drive was never easier.

Key Features

Pantheon Desktop Environment: It features the Pantheon desktop environment, which is known for its minimalistic and elegant design. It offers a clean, uncluttered interface with a dock at the bottom for easy access to frequently used applications.

AppCenter: The AppCenter is Elementary OS's centralized software store. It provides a curated selection of applications, both free and paid, ensuring that users have access to high-quality software. The pay-what-you-want model encourages support for developers.

System Settings: It offers a streamlined and intuitive system settings panel. It allows users to customize various aspects of their desktop, including appearance, sound, and hardware settings, with ease.

Privacy Features: The operating system includes privacy-centric features like the ability to block ads and trackers, preventing unwanted data collection.

Stable Base: This OS is built on top of Ubuntu LTS (Long Term Support) releases, providing a stable and well-maintained foundation for users.

User Interface

Elementary OS's user interface is one of its standout features. It's sleek, modern, and reminiscent of macOS in terms of design aesthetics. The Pantheon desktop environment provides a clean and uncluttered workspace with a focus on user-friendly navigation. The dock at the bottom of the screen offers easy access to frequently used applications, and the overall design is consistent throughout the system.

Installation and Setup

• Download the OS ISO image from the official website or FileHorse.
• Create a bootable USB drive using software like Rufus or Etcher.
• Boot your computer from the USB drive and follow the on-screen instructions.
• During installation, you can choose to install the OS alongside existing operating systems or wipe the entire disk for a clean install.
• The setup process is guided and user-friendly, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced Linux users.

How to Use

Launching Applications: Click on the applications menu or use the dock to launch programs. You can also use the application search feature for quick access.

Customization: Access the System Settings to personalize your desktop's appearance, sounds, and system behavior.

Software Installation: Use the AppCenter to discover and install new software. It offers a straightforward interface with user reviews and descriptions.

File Management: It includes the Files app for managing your documents and files. It's intuitive and easy to navigate.

Updates: Keep your system up-to-date by regularly checking for and installing updates through the AppCenter.

FAQ

Can I run Windows applications on Elementary OS?
Elementary OS is a Linux-based operating system, but you can run some Windows 11/10 applications using compatibility layers like Wine or virtualization tools like VirtualBox.

Does Elementary OS come with office software?
It includes a lightweight office suite called "Evince" for viewing PDFs. However, you can easily install popular office suites like LibreOffice from the AppCenter.

Is Elementary OS suitable for gaming?
It can run many Linux-compatible games from platforms like Steam. However, for Windows-exclusive games, you may need to use compatibility tools or a dual-boot setup.

Can I customize the desktop appearance?
Yes, you can customize the desktop's appearance by changing themes, icons, and fonts in the System Settings.

Does Elementary OS support dual-boot with Windows?
Yes, you can set up Elementary OS to dual-boot alongside Windows. During installation, choose the option to install Elementary OS alongside your existing operating system.

Pricing

This OS is completely FREE to download and use. However, it does encourage users to pay what they can for software in the AppCenter to support developers.

System Requirements

• A 64-bit processor
• 4 GB of RAM
• 15 GB of storage space
• A graphics card capable of running a minimum of OpenGL 3.3

PROS

• Beautiful and user-friendly interface
• Stable and reliable base (Ubuntu LTS)
• Privacy-focused features
• Pay-what-you-want model for software support
• Active and responsive community

CONS

• Limited number of pre-installed applications
• Some software may not be available in the AppCenter
• May not be as customizable as some other Linux distributions

Conclusion

All in all, Elementary OS is an excellent choice for users seeking a Linux distribution that combines elegance and user-friendliness. Its stunning interface, focus on privacy, and curated software selection make it an appealing option for both newcomers to Linux and experienced users looking for a streamlined and reliable desktop environment.

While it may not be as feature-rich or customizable as some other distributions, Elementary OS excels in providing a polished and enjoyable computing experience. Whether you're a creative professional, a student, or an everyday computer user, it offers a stable and visually pleasing platform to meet your needs.