Bunk Computer Cooperative

MacOS and Windows are not the only operating systems that we can run on our computers. Though they might be familiar, they aren't friendly — they spy on us and sometimes stop us from doing what we want with our own computers. The most user-friendly alternative to MacOS and Windows is Linux, and though Linux is easy to use it can be hard to get installed. And that's why we're hosting this monthly Linux install workshop to help!

So back up your personal data, bring your computer and a charger, and try out Linux! At the workshop, we'll have flash drives with Linux Mint already on them so that you can test drive Linux and see if you might like it well enough to switch.

We'll be hosting these events at 6pm on the second Wednesday of the month at Firestorm Books in Asheville, NC.

You will need: – A backup! Please backup EVERYTHING you want to save from your laptop before the event. Installing Linux will PERMANENTLY ERASE all data on the hard drive. – One Windows laptop (not a Macbook) – If you'd like to bring your desktop, you can! Just try to come a bit early so you've got time to set up. – One laptop charger

At the workshop: – We'll circle up and work on testing and installing Linux. There will be at least three of us helping, and if you'd like to come just to help, please do!

We will provide: – Flash drives for installing Linux Mint – A few blank flash drives for installing other distros – Ethernet connection in case anyone's having Wi-Fi issues

If you'd like to ease into the switch to Linux, you can install it on an old or backup computer that isn't your daily driver. Here's some local recommendations for good used laptops, if you're in the market. But remember, don't get a Macbook! Macbooks are not well supported by Linux: – Parks Computers – https://parkscomputers.com – Christopher's Computers – https://www.christopherscomputers.com – This Asheville-based ebay store – https://www.ebay.com/str/affordabletechforfolks – The GRID in Charlotte – https://thegridgoodwill.com – The GRID on Ebay – https://www.ebay.com/str/TheGRID-Powered-by-Goodwill-SP – Local Craigslist – https://asheville.craigslist.org/search/sya#search=2~gallery~0