Test drive (almost) any Linux in your browser.

[Diggs]

I stumbled across a site that spins up any of 60+ Linux distros for you to test drive. I find it a bit remarkable. It's a bit slow of course as it appears they spin up on the spot whatever flavor you asked for. Very cool!

Test Linux distros online - DistroSea

Test out popular Linux distributions online for free on your web browser. No installation or live boot needed.

distrosea.com

 

[Markverhyden]

Not sure it I tried this one. But I did test drive a web based linux distro evaluator some time ago. Didn't test extensively but do remember it was not equal across the ones I tested. Several of them just plain wouldn't load in the browser. It is a great way for new users to check things out.

 

[acs]

That's a good link. I have one or two customers on W10 who want to but a new W11 PC but still use or pass on the older W10 box. I am currently writing up a piece for my blog about how to do that. The link will make a good intro and allow people to see & try the different distros before hand. This W11 can be double bubble as you get paid to set up new W11 and install a linux distro on the old box!

 

[britechguy]

. . . you get paid to set up new W11 and install a linux distro on the old box!

Just remember that this (effectively, anyway) obligates you to support Linux on that old box. My idea of a nightmare is trying to get the completely uninitiated comfortable with Linux and able to handle it as a completely separate world from Windows. And that doesn't matter if I'm talking business versus residential clientele.

Most can't wrap their heads around one OS, let alone two!

 

[GTP]

completely uninitiated comfortable with Linux and able to handle it as a completely separate world from Windows.

The biggest problem I had was trying to ram it home to the aforementioned "completely uninitiated" the fact that it's NOT Microsoft or anything to do with Microsoft. So NO! You cannot install software designed to run on Windows! (Well you can, but lets not go there....)
Usually it was software like "Family Tree Maker" or similar.
Pointing them at the Software Repository for the particular distribution helped a lot as clients could find and try many programs they could install with a couple of clicks.

 

[britechguy]

@GTP

That's why I tend to make those who want to enter the world of Linux do so by their own hands, as it's not difficult. I will point them to the appropriate resources, but I don't want to become "the Linux support guy" in addition to "the Windows support guy."

It comes back to each of us and what we're willing to take on, and I'm not willing to take on Linux for others.

 

[NviGate Systems]

Or give them Chrome Flex. It's as about idiot proof as Linux based things get. Yes, not many features, but it will pass for most web based stuff.