Linux Village

I'm on a mission...I want to help people break an ugly cycle of OS and hardware lock in. I want to help people use their computer after Microsoft stops supporting their particular hardware/OS combination. I want to help people choose if they want to let AI assistants on their computer. In short, I want to help people migrate to Linux.

At the end of the day there are a number of key advantages to moving to Linux:

Linux can run effectively on lower-spec hardware, extending the life of that "Windows 8" computer in the age of "Windows 11."
Linux offers a "bloat free" experience - no piles of unhelpful apps from the hardware manufacturer and their paid partners (like that anti-virus suite that gets pre-installed with the "free trial," and the "hardware specific management application" that provides no actual value.
Linux doesn't "report back" on your activity, or default you to storing your personal data in the OS manufacturer's controlled environment, invading your privacy by default.
Linux offers easier access to free and open-source software (FOSS) with self-updating capabilities built into the solution, instead of being built to specifically favor paid, closed-source, software.
Linux can run a great many Windows programs via emulation layers, including a very wide variety of popular games via solutions like Wine, Lutris, Proton, and Steam.
Linux offers multi-year support with no fees and a smooth upgrade path when necessary to keep the system running with the latest supported, secure, version without requiring hardware updates.

But the thing about being on a mission is that you have to act on it. So here are some key actions I'm undertaking:

Writing About Linux

If you're a stranger to this site you may not realize that I have written quite a few Linux focused posts:

All my Linux specific writing is collected here.

These writings include things like installation instructions, suggestions for getting the most out of your Linux experience, and other observations and hints for those who are interested in taking the plunge.

Linux Demo Stations

As I've assisted friends and family retire older hardware for new, I've installed Linux Mint on their old machines. As of February 2026 I'm even running Mint - well! - on a 2013 laptop that was originally shipped with Windows 8. While it won't play the latest graphics-intensive games, it does all the basics quite well: web browsing, movie watching, office activities, etc. I'm happy to bring these demo systems with me for hands-on experimentation in the community, to help people understand how easy it is to get used to using Linux for their daily driver.

Linux Mint Installation

As part of villages and events I offer (with a team of helpers in some instances) to install Linux Mint on the Windows hardware people bring to the event. (Note: Chromebooks and Apple hardware aren't systems we can easily install Linux Mint on like the Windows machines, so if you are trying to convert from one of those platforms you'll need to find other options - and some do exist)

Installing Mint on a computer is a 3 stage process:

The computer owner must sign a waiver indicating that they understand all data will be overwritten on this computer, and that anything important has been backed up previously.
Approximately a 15-45 minute installation process, impacted by a combination of factors such as Internet connection speed, processor speed, and storage drive health.
Initial setup by the owner of their new OS and an initial tutorial of basic capabilities, such as installing applications, configuring WiFi connectivity, and other items.

Why Install Linux Mint?

Linux Mint is a very stable extraction of Ubuntu Linux, which itself is derived from Debian Linux. Linux Mint was developed intentionally for ease of use by first-time Linux users, ensuring that key capabilities are easy to find and concerns such as updates can be automated to make the experience as easy as possible. Linux Mint also has great compatibility from 20 year old hardware all the way up to the latest systems.

While Mint is not the only option available, we've chosen it for these reasons, and because our helpers are all familiar with the operating system.

Oh, and did I forget to mention it is Free Open Source Software (FOSS), so there are no licensing fees or costs associated with the software.

Interesting in Hosting a Village Event?

I'd love to discuss offering a Linux Village event at your conference, community center, library, or other space. We can make it as big or as small as your needs and interests allow for. Please reach out to us at linux@between-two-firewalls.com to discuss details.

Where Have We Held Linux Village Events Previously?

Our inaugural event is Cyphercon 2026 in Milwaukee Wisconsin, April 1st and 2nd, with several more scheduled for the rest of the year.