What tips for initial setup? (lemmy.world)

submitted 3 days ago by Ep1cFac3pa1m@lemmy.world to c/linux4noobs@programming.dev

17 comments fedilink hide all child comments

I installed Ubuntu 24.04 LTS about a year ago. Now that 26.04 is out, I was planning to upgrade, but instead I think I'm going to wipe and re-install from scratch. Does anyone have any tips or tweaks they recommend for new installs? Things like, do or don't encrypt the drive during the install process, make an administrator account separate from your regular user account? I already plan to install the Flatpak repo and the Gnome Software Center.

Thanks!

you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments

[-] shrek_is_love@lemmy.ml 3 points 3 days ago* (last edited 3 days ago)

Try installing some programs using the Nix package manager. It lets you declare a list of packages in a flake.nix file and then it'll download and update them for you automatically. And if you use git to keep track of the changes to flake.nix, you can easily undo changes if you screw something up.

Home Manager does the same thing but for your app's config files (so you can easily back up and synchronize them)

Both of these make getting set up after a fresh reinstallation much faster! (There's also "NixOS" which is an entire operating system that uses Nix for configuring the whole operating system but I wouldn't recommend that until you've tried "Nix" first)

this post was submitted on 21 May 2026

30 points (100.0% liked)

linux4noobs

3208 readers

5 users here now

linux4noobs

Noob Friendly, Expert Enabling

Whether you're a seasoned pro or the noobiest of noobs, you've found the right place for Linux support and information. With a dedication to supporting free and open source software, this community aims to ensure Linux fits your needs and works for you. From troubleshooting to tutorials, practical tips, news and more, all aspects of Linux are warmly welcomed. Join a community of like-minded enthusiasts and professionals driving Linux's ongoing evolution.

Seeking Support?

Mention your Linux distro and relevant system details.
Describe what you've tried so far.
Share your solution even if you found it yourself.
Do not delete your post. This allows other people to see possible solutions if they have a similar problem.
Properly format any scripts, code, logs, or error messages.
Be mindful to omit any sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, IP addresses, etc.

Community Rules

Keep discussions respectful and amiable. This community is a space where individuals may freely inquire, exchange thoughts, express viewpoints, and extend help without encountering belittlement. We were all a noob at one point. Differing opinions and ideas is a normal part of discourse, but it must remain civil. Offenders will be warned and/or removed.
Posts must be Linux oriented
Spam or affiliate links will not be tolerated.

founded 2 years ago

MODERATORS

PlutoParty@programming.dev