My prob with Linux is its so fragmented - please help!

[ulrichburke]

Dear Anyone.

Problem with Linux is the sheer AMOUNT of distros out there and nothing runs everything! It's like someone took a good operating system, smashed it into fragments and designed stuff to run on each of the fragments individually. I've got a bunch of 32-bit Windows programs I use all the time because I'm flat too braindead to understand their 64-bit replacements (I have TRIED, believe you me!) They crash on Windows 10 a lot but at least I can use them. I've no idea if they'd run on Linux at all (Quick Score Elite Level 2 and all its 32-bit VST plugins.) If Linux got its act together and unified the O.S. so there was ONE distro that ran everything, not 500 distros that each run some things, I'd give it a shot.

I keep coming across threads saying This version or That version. And other threads saying there's Linux programs that do what Windows programs do. Thing IS - I LIKE my old 32-bit Windows software cos I understand it. Tried other music writing programs - including a Linux one - and don't get on with them as well.

If Linux wants to be a threat to Windows, why can't it unify all these hundreds of different distros into One O.S. that runs Windows AND Linux programs - surely it could do that by making Wine and Bottles part of Linux so when you install Linux they're installed already? And - this is just a guess - if there's programs that need different distros of Linux, and you've got one unified Linux, couldn't those programs just skin Linux for their own needs, removing the skin when you close (not uninstall, just X out of) the program? Or would that mean other programs couldn't use the theoretical unified Linux O.S. if there was a skin on it? I mean no other O.S. that I'm aware of has a mountain of different versions,, all running concurrently, they have one version and you write software to fit that one version! I'm NOT a Linux expert but tried using it once and was having to use CLI and Bash and Repositories to get bits of stuff to make other bits of stuff work, and I kept downloading Linux programs that wouldn't work cos I had the wrong distro, and I ended up with hard drives with several Linux distros on and having to swap them out to run different bits of Linux software - too many penguins. Went back to One Ring to Rule 'em All - thanks Bill!

How do all you other Linux users come to terms with having an operating system in at least 500 different fragments (distros), having to swap between distros all the time to run different programs that work in ways totally alien to how Windows programs work, to having such a limited selection OF programs compared to all the software Windows can run and to creating files nobody who's NOT using Linux can actually open, so you've got to go back to Windows anyway if you're writing any kind of file to send to a Windows user?

This is NOT flame or anything, it's my experience with Linux. Tried using it a few times in the past and hit all the above problems every time, that's why I gave up. If there's ways around the probs, just tell me! I'm not good at computing, just love writing music using notation, doing graphics and playing a few games.. Got Asperger's, can follow Windows' train of thought, not Linux's, am willing to learn though if someone explains the above to me.

Yours respectfully,

Chris.

 

[Condobloke]

G'day Ulrich, Welcome to Linux.org

Try a slow read of the link below, first. It will give you a general idea.

Just for the record, the most popular Linux distro is probably Linux Mint. Made in 64 bit only. (very, very few 32 bit distros made any more) They occupy almost a niche place.
As an operating system, Linux Mint is complete. Not fragmented, complete. It has in excess of 45000 apps available for download...free.

Linux is NOT Windows

 

[Brickwizard]

Problem with Linux is the sheer AMOUNT of distros out there and nothing runs everything!

Neither does Windows 10/11

. I've got a bunch of 32-bit Windows programs I

32 bit is all but dead, no longer fully supported by Microsoft/mac/or Linux [there are still a few legacy Linux 32 bit distros but how long security support will last is anyone's guess]

So lets re-word your problem to a question.... I Have many Windows 32 bit apps I like to use, can i run them on Linux, the answer is many [but not all] will run on either 32 bit Linux in wine with 32 bit codect's, fewer will run on 64 bit Linux again using 32 bit wine BUT you will need to install the Linux legacy 32 bit codect's. [ for debian based distros sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386 && sudo apt update]

 

[Condobloke]

having to swap between distros all the time to run different programs that work in ways totally alien to how Windows programs work,

That is not the case.
Windows uses the ntfs file system

Linux uses the ext4 file system

Linux apps do not work in windows
Windows apps do not work in Linux

As @Brickwizard explains above, there are ways to have windows 32 bit apps/programs run in Linux, but it not straightforward....it needs an app called 'wine' (or there are a few others) with various codecs installed etc etc

It is likely simpler to find the Linux alternative for what you are currently using and run with that.

I'm not good at computing,

Given the above statement, I can only suggest you keep your approach simple. Some parts of Linux can be quite complex

love writing music using notation, doing graphics and playing a few games

What app/program do you use in music notation, .....what do you meana by graphics?..is there an app used in that?....names of the games that you play ?

 

[Brickwizard]

just love writing music using notation, doing graphics and playing a few games.

We have several musicians as members who use a mix of applications who could possibly help if you pose the right question, likewise we have lots of gamers from the casual to the serious boys, many will help you set up.

but when you pose your question, include the make and model of your machine and any upgrades , as this could affect the answers.

 

[wizardfromoz]

Chris, I am wondering whether you took the time to read all of the input you were provided at your first thread here, last August

https://www.linux.org/threads/is-there-one-version-of-linux-that-runs-all-linux-programs.57826/

If not, you should do so, the people there were not just flapping their literary tongues for fun, they were explaining valid perspectives on the same points you raise here 6 months down the track.

And to helpers here, yes, LNW (Linux is not Windows) was referenced there as well, in #2.

Friday in Oz, so

Avagudweegend

Chris Turner
wizardfromoz

 

[MikeWalsh]

Click-bait phishing.

Nah, the OP hasn't tried to learn.....nor do they WANT to learn (OR require any help). They're just here to waste community bandwidth.

Don't feed the trolls, guys.

(shrug..)


Mike.

 

[dos2unix]

Problem with Linux is the sheer AMOUNT of distros out there

Answer generated by claude.ai

For current Windows versions (Windows 11 and Windows 10 which is still supported until October 2025), here are the main editions:

Desktop/Workstation Editions:

• Home - consumer basic
• Pro - includes domain join, BitLocker, Hyper-V, Remote Desktop host
• Pro for Workstations - adds support for server-grade hardware, ReFS, persistent memory
• Enterprise - volume licensing, includes additional management and security features
• Education - similar to Enterprise but for academic institutions

Server Editions (Windows Server 2022/2019/2016):

• Standard - full server features, limited virtualization rights (2 VMs)
• Datacenter - unlimited virtualization rights, software-defined networking/storage
• Essentials - small business version, 25 users max, simplified management
• Azure Stack HCI - hyperconverged infrastructure, Azure integration

Specialty Editions:

• Windows 10/11 IoT Enterprise - for embedded and industrial systems
• Windows 10 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) - stripped down, no feature updates for 5-10 years

There are also various regional SKUs (like "N" editions in Europe without media features) and OEM variants, but those are the core editions.


The problem with windows, too many versions, and none of them run everything.

 

[CptCharis]

Hello there dear Chris

First thing first!

Linux distros aren't "fragments" of a broken OS—they're different flavors of the same underlying system. Think of it like different car manufacturers using the same engine: Toyota, Honda, and Ford all make cars that drive on roads, but with different features and designs. Most Linux software runs on any distro with the right libraries installed.

1. "Nothing runs everything!"

• Actually, most Linux software runs on all major distros. The differences are mainly in pre-installed software and package managers, not compatibility.
• Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Pop!_OS would likely run 95% of available Linux software out of the box.

2. "My 32-bit Windows programs"

• Wine and Bottles (which you mentioned) can run many Windows programs on Linux, including 32-bit apps.
• However, specialized music software like Quick Score Elite Level 2 and VST plugins are hit-or-miss. This is a legitimate concern—professional audio software often doesn't work well on Linux.

3. "Why not unify into one distro?"

• This goes against Linux's philosophy of choice and freedom.
• However, for your needs, you should just pick one mainstream distro (like Ubuntu or Mint) and stick with it. You don't need to distro-hop.

4. "Having to swap distros to run different programs"
- This shouldn't be necessary. If you experienced this, you were likely trying niche software or following bad advice.

My Honest Recommendation to you

Don't switch to Linux.

Alternative suggestion: Stick with Windows 10 (or upgrade to Windows 11), and troubleshoot the crashing 32-bit programs—perhaps running them in compatibility mode or using Windows' built-in compatibility tools.

Linux is wonderful, but it's not for everyone, and that's okay. You have found tools that work for you and creative process—that's more important than using any particular OS.

 

[wizardfromoz]

Hello there dear Chris

Hello my good friend, good to hear from you.

If you have not visited for a few months, be sure you catch up with a Rule addition regarding AI, which Rob announced here

https://www.linux.org/threads/terms...ance-on-ai-generated-posts-and-replies.58834/

...and is now listed in the Terms and Rules

Fair winds and safe seas.

Chris

 

[wizardfromoz]

Nah, the OP hasn't tried to learn.....nor do they WANT to learn (OR require any help). They're just here to waste community bandwidth.

Don't feed the trolls, guys.

I would not be so quick to judge.

The OP has said

Got Asperger's, can follow Windows' train of thought, not Linux's, am willing to learn though if someone explains the above to me.

I too, have Asperger's Syndrome.

Since 2014, Asperger's has been rolled into inclusion in the Autistic Spectrum, but for those of us (and the OP is 60) who were diagnosed before that time, we retain the condition name.

I will wait and see if the OP comes back with a response to my points at #6 above before I consider further.

Wizard

 

[f33dm3bits]

How do all you other Linux users come to terms with having an operating system in at least 500 different fragments (distros), having to swap between distros all the time to run different programs that work in ways totally alien to how Windows programs work, to having such a limited selection OF programs compared to all the software Windows can run and to creating files nobody who's NOT using Linux can actually open, so you've got to go back to Windows anyway if you're writing any kind of file to send to a Windows user?

I use one Linux distribution for all the things I do at home, to run all my software and games. As for why some files do not have good compatibility with for example Microsoft Office is explained here, but in short Office doesn't only use open standards but also proprietary formats and it doesn't always have the open standards implemented correctly.

How to resolve common compatibility issues with ODF files - TDF Community Blog

Troubleshooting opening, formatting, and data loss issues with Open Document Format files ODF files are great for sharing documents across multiple platforms, but they don’t always work perfectly, especially when using Microsoft Office or other software based on proprietary formats. If you’ve...

blog.documentfoundation.org

There's also Linux programs that aren't available on Windows, then there is professional software where the developers choose to not support Linux because of not having as big of a market share as Windows. So it's not always a Linux problem.

If Linux wants to be a threat to Windows, why can't it unify all these hundreds of different distros into One O.S.

Linux doesn't need to conquer the desktop world, it's already doing fine as it is. For those who care about competitive gaming, maybe at one point there will be a new anti-cheat solution that works on every os as anti-cheat with root kernel access it's own risks(ie: Crowdstrike) and privacy concerns that more people are starting to wake up to.

This is NOT flame or anything, it's my experience with Linux. Tried using it a few times in the past and hit all the above problems every time, that's why I gave up. If there's ways around the probs, just tell me!

There's the problem you tried using it a few times and then gave up, it takes more than just trying a few times to understand how to use a new os. You also learned how Windows worked, you weren't born with all your Windows knowledge, you learned that over time. So it will take a bit of time to understand and learn the basics of Linux before it starts to make sense to you.

 

[wizardfromoz]

I like that linked article Maarten. The issues with macros in both word processing and spreadsheets is something I have long explained to people. Now, I may quote that link.

Cheers

 

[f33dm3bits]

Now, I may quote that link.

I bookmarked it, as for it thought the same as you as it may be useful in the future. So you should too Chris, that way you won't lose it

 

[MikeWalsh]

Interesting "take" on the whole "running Windows software" thing. Making the entire OS LOOK like Windows - via some kind of 'skin' or 'theme' while it's running the Windows app.....then reverting back to 'normal' Linux when you quit.

Hmm. Gawd, that would take a LOT of implementation, wouldn't it?

@wizardfromoz :-

I'm genuinely curious here now, Chris. Having nobody in our family or circle of friends with the condition - nor do any of them know anyone who has - I've no idea about this. Is it a side-effect of Asperger's that sufferers tend to favour complex solutions over simple ones? Perhaps complex solutions are more obvious to them.....or does the condition have some kind of amplifying effect on whatever your natural state of mind happens to be?

Online articles only go so far in describing how the condition affects those who are diagnosed with it.....at least, that's the case with what few articles I've been able to find.

Hm :-

It can affect how they communicate with and relate to other people as well as how they experience the world around them, characterised by challenges with social interaction, social communication and flexibility of thinking or imagination.

.....from here:-

What is Asperger's Syndrome / Autism Without Learning Disabilities? - Asperger's Syndrome Foundation

aspergerfoundation.org.uk

Food for thought.

I also find it strange how some people with the originally-named condition apparently find the new naming system to be somehow "offensive", and continue to refer to themselves as having the "old" condition..? I'm having a job understanding that one, given how "PC" (politically-correct) we all have to be these days.....

I've never been one for "hiding" facts, no matter how uncomfortable they might make some people. I've always believed that openness of discussion & transparency should make things better for all.....though I know several folks who would disagree with that, believing that ALL 'personal' stuff should always be kept "under wraps" and hidden away. A case of "out of sight, out of mind"?

It's not an easy one. How DO you approach the whole thing..?


Mike.

 

[Scribe1]

When I filed for divorce from Microsoft in 2013, I knew that my decision included finding new applications for the things I like or need to do. Beginning with OpenSuse and then moving to Mint, I found what I needed. I will note that new developments continue, so applications that didn't exist even in recent history, are coming up all the time. Searching for an application for doing things like writing sheet music or composing music, is a matter of looking in more than one place and in more than one way (asking the right question, frustrating as it is, is really a big part of it). In a recent experience with Windows 10/11, I was reminded of how wise my decision was to get away from Microsoft. And I happily destroyed Windows and replaced it with Linux Mint.

 

[kibasnowpaw]

Ok I’m going to answer this point by point, because I think a lot of the frustration comes from misunderstanding how Linux is structured rather than Linux actually being “broken into fragments.”

First I completely understand where you’re coming from. Linux feels confusing at first because there are many distros, and if you come from Windows it looks like chaos.

But the important mindset shift is this:

Linux is not one product like Windows. Linux is more like LEGO. The core is shared the Linux kernel and different groups build systems around it for different needs.

So instead of thinking “500 broken versions,” try thinking:

You choose a base family first, then choose the look.

For example:

Step 1 choose a base:

• Debian/Ubuntu (stable, beginner friendly)
• Fedora (newer tech)
• Arch (DIY, advanced)

Step 2 choose desktop environment (the look and workflow):

• KDE (similar to Windows layout)
• GNOME (simpler, more modern)
• XFCE (lightweight and classic)

Example:

• Ubuntu = GNOME desktop
• Kubuntu = KDE desktop
• Xubuntu = XFCE desktop

Same core family, different interface. Once you understand this, Linux stops feeling like hundreds of unrelated systems.

You normally do NOT need to switch distros constantly to run programs. That sounds like you hit the learning curve early and assumed each distro runs totally different software but most Linux software works across many distributions.

Now your specific points:

---

“Nothing runs everything / too many distros”

Windows hides complexity by forcing one ecosystem. Linux gives choice.
But most users just pick one:
Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Fedora, etc.
You don’t need to try hundreds.
Also, modern packaging helps unify things:

• Flatpak
• AppImage
• Snap

These run on almost any distro, so software compatibility is improving a lot.

---

32-bit Windows programs

This is actually one area where Linux can be surprisingly strong.
Wine and Proton allow many old 32-bit programs to run even when Windows itself is dropping support.
You do NOT need a special distro for that just install Wine or Bottles.
And yes, many distros could include Wine by default, but Linux philosophy is giving choice rather than forcing software.

---

“Why not one unified Linux that runs Windows + Linux apps?”

Technically this already exists in practice:

• Linux runs Linux software.
• Wine/Proton runs many Windows programs.
• Steam Proton runs thousands of games.

But making one single official Linux version would remove the freedom that allows Linux to evolve.

Windows works the way it does because Microsoft controls everything centrally. Linux is community-driven.

---

CLI and Bash confusion

You don’t actually need to use terminal for most things anymore, especially on beginner-friendly distros like Linux Mint or Ubuntu.

But tutorials often show terminal because:

• It works the same everywhere.
• It is faster for explaining technical fixes.

---

Limited programs compared to Windows
Yes and no.
Some professional or niche software only exists on Windows especially certain enterprise tools or specific music software.
But many alternatives exist, and Wine fills some gaps.
Linux isn’t trying to copy Windows 1:1 it has its own ecosystem.

---

File compatibility with Windows users
This is mostly a myth now.
Common formats work everywhere:

• PDF
• PNG/JPG
• MP3/WAV
• DOCX
• ODT
• etc.

Linux doesn’t create “unopenable files” by default.

---

Your experience with swapping drives and distros
Honestly, it sounds like you started too deep too fast.
You don’t need multiple distros for different programs.
Pick one beginner-friendly distro and stay with it long enough to learn how it works.

---

Linux is not harder because it’s worse it’s different because it gives you choice.

Once you understand:

1. Pick a base (Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch)
2. Pick a desktop (KDE, GNOME, XFCE)

…then everything becomes much simpler.
It’s like choosing a car platform first, then choosing the interior.
And yeah there is a learning curve. But once it clicks, you stop seeing “too many penguins” and start seeing options .

---

 

[lman26]

G'day Ulrich, Welcome to Linux.org

Try a slow read of the link below, first. It will give you a general idea.

Just for the record, the most popular Linux distro is probably Linux Mint. Made in 64 bit only. (very, very few 32 bit distros made any more) They occupy almost a niche place.
As an operating system, Linux Mint is complete. Not fragmented, complete. It has in excess of 45000 apps available for download...free.

Linux is NOT Windows

I agree that Mint seems to be the most popular distro however for noobs who know nothing about Linux (like me) using Mint has been somewhat frustrating. I found another distro called Ferron OS which has been much easier to use. It doesn't require you to use the terminal if you don't want to and it runs faster on my computer than Mint does. The package store is slightly smaller than Mint's but that's not a problem for me. So far I've been able to install everything I use on Mint. I plan on continuing to use both Mint and Ferron OS since they are on different computers but I think I may eventually switch to Ferron full time.

 

[wizardfromoz]

@lman26 for purposes of accuracy for the readers, that is Feren OS.

Cheers

Chris Turner
wizardfromoz

 

[lman26]

@lman26 for purposes of accuracy for the readers, that is Feren OS.

Cheers

Chris Turner
wizardfromoz

Sorry. I always misspell it for some reason.