Easiest possible guide to switching from Window 10 to Linux.
Microsoft is ending support for Window 10 on October 14 2025 (this is bad because unless you update to windows 11, your laptop could become a security risk for viruses and hacks). So I'm switching to Linux.
However this is more confusing then I was led to believe and even the "easy" and the "absolute beginner" tutorials are too complex and assume a level of technical knowledge I do not posses. This means I have spent over a week learning about all sorts of tech stuff and bouncing between different tutorials, googling every fifth word.
I know I am not alone in hating Windows 11 (and worrying about the increase of AI and decrease of privacy it will bring). I also know that there will be others like me, who cannot understand a word of the computer jargon. So I have typed up a guide for each step of the process (for Linux Mint) as well as a "dictionary" of sorts that has all the terms you'll see that might not be common knowledge.
These guides are based on what I've read and what I have done/has worked for me. Remember I am not in any way an expert, so take these with a grain of salt.
I have made a separate document for each step of the process so you can skip to whichever you need to. They are numbered in the order they should be read/completed.
If there is anything missing or incorrect, or if you come across a word you don't know or an instruction you don't understand please tell me so I can correct it and/or add it in. I want to make this as accessible as possible so more people can leave Microsoft (and other big brands).
The link below will take you to the folder with all the instructions (proton drive is just like google drive, but more secure)
Edit: I've made the documents better and they are in a new drive so I've changed the link bellow. (The old one is still there incase anyone saved it)
Securely store, share, and access your important files and photos. Anytime, anywhere.
