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Help/Recommendations for setting up new SSD with Linux
(lemmy.world)
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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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It may work to swap drives, but you should definitely minimize physical swapping if possible. Pick where the drives will live, then try to stick with that (or be ready to do some troubleshooting). Create a Linux install media for your chosen distro, put the empty drive in the laptop, and boot from the install media. Most distros come with a graphical installer, so you should be able to navigate from there.
Also, for the best experience, the drive inside the laptop should be your daily driver, anyway. USB-C is great, but you'll have the best I/O with the slot on the mainboard, which is both physically closer to the CPU and likely uses NVMe. If you plan on making Linux your daily driver, that should be the drive in the laptop.
Lastly, try booting from a live ISO where you can give it a test run before you install. Might identify any glaringly obvious issues with your hardware before you go through the trouble, though not all distros have live media.
Good luck, OP! I'm right there with you, making the switch to Linux, though I'm just going to relegate Windows to a VM.