Installing Essential Applications for Your Workflow

To keep you productive, consider installing the following applications:

• Krusader: A dual-pane file manager.

You might wonder why a dual-pane file manager is still relevant in 2021. Surprisingly, I find that tools like Krusader significantly enhance my productivity. The trend has leaned towards single-pane managers since the 2010s, but I appreciate the efficiency of moving files using keyboard shortcuts, launching applications, and easily accessing archives.

• Joplin: An open-source note-taking tool.

The note-taking landscape would be quite dull without open-source solutions like Joplin, which prioritize freedom from subscriptions. It's lightweight, fast, and even allows syncing with Dropbox (with encryption options). It’s available across all platforms, so I’ve transitioned to it on my Mac, and now it’s ready for my Linux setup.

• BleachBit: Useful for system cleanup.

Using Linux doesn’t exempt you from maintaining your system. Thankfully, BleachBit helps you efficiently remove unnecessary files and optimize your system.

• Geany: A straightforward text editor for coding.

While classic editors like “vi” and “nano” are well-known, other excellent options exist, such as Geany and Gedit. Both have their merits, but Geany tends to be more advanced and may suit your needs better. Experiment with different editors and choose the one that resonates with you.

• VirtualBox: For running virtual machines.

Using virtual machines adds value to your Linux experience. Some applications are unavailable on Linux, so you may want to set up a Windows virtual machine. Options like VMware, QEMU, and VirtualBox are available, but I recommend starting with VirtualBox due to its open-source nature. If it doesn’t meet your needs, you can always explore other alternatives.

• PlayOnLinux: Run Windows applications directly through WINE.

You don’t always need to emulate Windows to run applications. Sometimes, you can run them directly on your machine using WINE or tailored solutions like PlayOnLinux, which simplifies the process without the overhead of a virtual machine. However, verify compatibility with your desired software before proceeding.

• FileZilla: For connecting to FTP and FTPS servers.

FileZilla remains a top choice for FTP connections, making it a valuable tool for users who require such functionality. Although web apps have made things easier, the robustness of FileZilla is hard to overlook.

• Visual Studio Code: A code editor and development environment.

Although I lean towards open-source tools, Visual Studio Code excels in coding efficiency. It’s quick and enjoyable to use. While I appreciate IntelliJ IDEA as well, it tends to be heavier and more Java-centric.

Always remember to think critically when reading articles online; there are no absolute right or wrong answers.

• Timeshift: A backup solution for Linux.

Regular backups are crucial. Anyone who has lost data will tell you how vital they are. Fortunately, Timeshift is built into Linux Mint and can be activated easily, setting up automatic backups without requiring further input.

• Audacity: A user-friendly audio editor.

Audio editing isn’t just for musicians. Sometimes you need to quickly edit a lecture recording or adjust music tracks. Audacity serves these purposes well, even if its interface isn’t perfect. I utilize it for my YouTube channel when audio modifications are necessary, and I plan to explore its capabilities further.

• DOSBox: An excellent DOS emulator.

For running DOS applications without the hassle of a DOS virtual machine, DOSBox is an ideal choice. It’s straightforward to configure and works seamlessly. I often use it for my favorite DOS games and even Windows 3.11. It’s one of the first tools I install on my system.

• Krita: A Photoshop alternative for image editing.

If you’re looking for a lightweight image editing tool and aren’t a fan of GIMP, Krita is a great option. I’ve used both and appreciate their unique strengths. Ultimately, the choice lies in your personal preference after testing both options.

A Few More Recommendations…

Lastly, I suggest installing some command-line tools to enhance your workflow:

For process monitoring: sudo apt-get install htop Downloading videos from YouTube: sudo apt-get install youtube-dl File Manager (Midnight Commander): sudo apt-get install mc Speed Test Command Line version: sudo apt-get install speedtest-cli

Conclusion

Setting up a new system as a beginner can be daunting. Thankfully, modern Linux distributions like Linux Mint alleviate much of that anxiety, enabling you to start using both the command line and applications designed for nearly every scenario you might encounter.

There are also commercial applications like Slack, Skype, and Steam available. In fact, gaming on Linux has become much more feasible in recent years, thanks to the Proton engine. Transitioning to a new environment, especially after using Windows, can feel overwhelming, but Linux remains an exciting platform that is continuously evolving.

Linux Mint includes a built-in application store for installing software. If you wish to use SNAP packages (a somewhat controversial Ubuntu feature) in your Linux Mint setup, you can easily enable it by following the official guidelines.

Enjoy one of the finest Linux distributions, and remember that Linux is all about choices. Linux Mint is just one of the many possibilities.

You can customize Linux to your liking, and that’s its true beauty.

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