Why switch to Windows 10 or a Mac when you can use Linux Mint 17.3 instead?

Linux Mint 17.3 is the best Linux desktop operating system and it might be the best PC operating system, period, for you.

My buddy David Gewirtz recently wrote about the question of whether you should move from Windows 7 to Windows 10 or a Mac. I have another suggestion: Linux. Specifically Linux Mint 17.3, Rosa, with the Cinnamon desktop.

Linux Mint 17.3 is a great replacement for Windows 7. In fact, it's a great desktop operating system period. sjvn

Yes, I'm serious. I use all the above desktops -- yes I'm a Windows 7 and 10 user as well as a Linux guy -- and for people I think Mint 17.3 makes a great desktop.
I've been using Mint as my main Linux desktop for years now. Unlike some desktops I could name -- cough, Windows 8, cough -- Linux Mint has never had a flop. Every year that goes by, this operating system keeps getting better. The other desktops? Not so much.
Let's take a closer look.at Windows 7 vs. Linux Mint 17.3
UI Differences

There's really not much. While it's even easier for a Windows XP user to move to Mint than a Windows 7 user, any Windows user won't have any trouble picking up Linux Mint with Cinnamon. There's a Start Menu and settings are easy to find.
I regard Cinnamon 2.8 as the ultimate Window, Icon, Menu, Pointer (WIMP) interface. Is it ideal for tablets or smartphones? No. Is it perfect for long-time PC users? Yes.
Cinnamon does add some nice features. For example, if you mouse over the Window list, you'll now see a thumbnail for each application. It also has improved performance, system tray status indicators, and music and power applets.

What I like best about Cinnamon is that it doesn't get in the way. There's no learning curve. You may have never used Linux in your life but you can just sit down and start opening directories, running applications, and modify your PC's settings.
One small feature I like a lot, since I always run multiple workspaces, is that the workspace switcher applet now shows a visual representation of what's running in each workspace.
Don't like Cinnamon? Unlike any version of Windows, Linux Mint comes with many different desktops. These include KDE, MATE and Xfce. Find one you like and enjoy,
Application Selection
It's true that Linux doesn't have as many application choice as Windows does. But, how many applications do you really need in 2016? I do most of my work these days on the cloud with software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications. These apps work just as well on Chrome, my favorite Web browser, on Mint as they do on any other desktop.

Six Clicks: Linux Mint tips and tricks SEE FULL GALLERY

1 - 5 of 7

NEXT PREV

That said, there are many excellent Linux desktop programs. For example, instead of Microsoft Office I use LibreOffice 5. I don't use it because it's free, although most Linux desktop applications won't cost you a cent, but because it's an excellent office suite in its own right.
I also use Evolution instead of Outlook for e-mail and GIMP instead of Photoshop for my basic graphic editing needs. The bottom line is that are many great Linux programs that you can use in place of Windows appliations.
Are there some Windows programs that you can't live without? Well, you don't have to live without them.
There are two ways to run Windows programs on Linux. One is to use CodeWeaver's CrossOver Linux. This program enables you to run many popular Windows applications on Linux. Supported Windows applications include Microsoft Office (from Office 97 to Office 2010), Quicken, and some versions of Adobe Photoshop.
The application you absolutely must have won't work with CrossOver? Then run it on a virtual machine (VM) program such as Oracle's VirtualBox.
I use both methods and they work well.
Mobile Ecosystem Compatibility
I don't care what some people say, Windows Phone is dead to me. And, pretty much everyone else.
Mint, however, is a pure desktop play. Yes, Android is Linux, but it runs in parallel with the desktop Linux distribution. That may change as Android creeps toward the desktop, but we're not there yet.
Ubuntu, which is Mint's foundation Linux distribution, parent company Canonical is working hard on making its same code base work on PCs, smartphones, and tablets. So, eventually, you may be running Mint on smartphones. I'm not holding my breath.
If you want one operating system family on all your devices, don't waste your time -- for now -- on either Linux or Windows. Just go ahead and buy an iPhone and a Mac and be done with it.
Reliability
This is not even a conversation.

Step-by-step instructions

How to install Oracle VirtualBox and Windows XP on Linux Mint (Gallery)

Here's a step-by-step guide to get Windows XP running on an Oracle VirtualBox-based virtual machine on Linux Mint

• Read More

While Windows 7 is far more stable than any other version of Windows, I haven't had Linux Mint ever -- ever -- stop working.
If you want a desktop that can take a licking and keep ticking, you want Linux, not Windows or Mac OS X.
Security
Really? Do you even have to ask?
Every lousy day a new piece of Windows malware shows up. Windows is more secure than it once was, but it's still easy to bust.
Linux, on the other hand, despite the garbage you read about Linux viruses and such, is almost never sucessfully attacked.
Oh, yes, Linux has been broken into multiple times. But, in almost every case, the attack relies on a user with super-user priviledges working hand in glove with an attacker to break in. If a system administrator installs malware who's really to blame for the cracked computer? The operasting system or the incompetent system manager? I know which one I'd be kicking out of my office.
Upgrade Cost
Windows 10 is usually free now -- even if you don't actually want it. Micrsoft continues to find new and interesting ways to shove it down your throat such aa making Windows 10 a recommended update.
Mint, though, was free when it began, it's free now, and will always be free. If you decide a particular version of Mint is the cat's meow, you can keep using it until the bits fall off the hard drive because of rust.
Switching Costs
Windows 10 can run on most newer Windows 7 systems without any fuss. On the other hand, I can run Mint on Windows XP systems. Give me 512MBs of RAM, and I'm in business with Mint.
Mind you, I'd much rather have 2GBs, but you really can run Mint on pretty much any hardware hiding out in your office's back room.
The real cost will be in traning and applications. As I mentioned earlier, however, Mint doesn't have much of a learning curve. As for applications, almost all Linux programs are free. If, as many offices do now, you realy on SaaS apps for producivity you won't see one thin dime more in software migration costs.
Directory Integration
What's that you say? You use Active Directory (AD) for system management and supporting it is a must? No problem.
You just install BeyondTrust's PowerBroker, formerly Likewise, and in a few minutes your Mint machines will be in your AD forest. Next question?
The Bottom Line
Linux Mint is an excellent Windows 7 replacement. I've used it for years now and I've found it to be the best desktop out there.
Is it better than Windows 10? I think so. It's certainly more stable and secure.
Should you move to it? I recommend you try it for yourself. Like all desktop Linux distributions, it's easy to try and it's free. Just download a copy of Mint, 64-bit Cinnamon would be my pick, and install it. If you're installing Mint on a system with UEFI Secure Boot, you may have to jump through a few hoops. I say "may" because neither I nor J.A. Watson have had any trouble with it.
Once you're done, I think you'll soon find that Mint is a great replacement for Windows 7.

How to install Windows apps on Linux with... SEE FULL GALLERY

1 - 5 of 10

NEXT PREV

Enjoy!

No Health Insurance Penalty now $695

Anyone with no coverage is going to be hit hard this tax season. Originally it was $95. What a great fucking scam you muslim loser. Blame the supreme court that sold out america. HOW CAN YOU MANDATE SOMEONE HAVING COVERAGE AND FINE THEM?
Straight from the official government website.

https://www.healthcare.gov/fees/fee-for-not-being-covered/

$347.50 per child under 18
Maximum: $2,085

The fee for not having health insurance in 2016
The fee is calculated 2 different ways – as a percentage of your household income, and per person. You’ll pay whichever is higher.
Percentage of income
2.5% of household income
Maximum: Total yearly premium for the national average price of a Bronze plan sold through the Marketplace
Per person
$695 per adult
$347.50 per child under 18
Maximum: $2,085

Penalize people that work that can’t afford the coverage to give to losers that sit on their ass and get the free coverage. Maybe just maybe one day this government will collapse on the weight of their own stupidity and corruption.

You cannot force someone to own a product, especially a govt product.
AC

Wells Fargo is collapsing because of its HUGE exposure to oil & gas companies

Wells Fargo & Co (WFC.N) has the largest exposure to loans to energy companies among major U.S. lenders, a report from Raymond James said, amid concerns that banks may have to set aside more money to cover bad loans to the industry.
The bank also topped the list with the biggest exposure to energy companies whose public debt was trading less than 35 percent of par, the brokerage said on Thursday.

Wells Fargo was followed by Bank of America Corp (BAC.N), Citigroup Inc (C.N), Comerica Inc (CMA.N) and BB&T Corp (BBT.N).

http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usbanks-research-idUSKCN0RO29220150924
West Virginia Woman Sues Wells Fargo Over Alleged Home Loan Modification Misrepresentations
In early 2015, she contacted the company about modifying her loan. At that point, a rep for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage instructed her not to make payments while the modification was being processed.
Relying on the information from the rep, the woman stopped payment, while providing all necessary paperwork for the modification.
In June 2015, Wells Fargo re-sent the woman a packet requesting duplicate documents. The following month, the woman says she began receiving debt collection calls.
When the woman called Wells Fargo about the collection calls, she was told that her account was mistakenly removed from the modification program and placed in foreclosure.
West Virginia Woman Sues Wells Fargo Over Alleged Home Loan Modification Misrepresentations
Wells Fargo & Co, No.3 U.S. bank by assets
* “At current price levels, we would expect to have a higher oil and gas losses in 2016.”
Morgan Stanley, No.6 U.S. bank by assets
* “We’ve seen an increase in negative marks within corporate loan book, focus is around energy.”
http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-01-21/what-big-banks-say-about-their-energy-exposure

Wells Fargo to pay $1.2 billion for bad mortgages

Wells Fargo & Co. said Wednesday that it has agreed to pay $1.2 billion to settle a long-running suit that accused the company of “reckless” lending and leaving a federal insurance program to pick up the tab.
The agreement settles civil charges with the U.S. Justice Department, two U.S. attorneys and the Department of Housing and Urban Development
The government sued Wells Fargo in 2012, accusing the U.S. mortgage lender of engaging in “regular practice of reckless origination and underwriting” of government-backed loans. The action was one of several brought under the Federal False Claims Act against a lender accused of bilking the Federal Housing Administration, which has historically backed loans to first-time buyers and those with low incomes.
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/wells-fargo-to-pay-12-billion-for-bad-mortgages-2016-02-03?link=MW_home_latest_news

Ford To Cut Hundreds Of Jobs In UK And Germany

The US car maker is cutting costs across Europe but production workers will be spared, with admin and marketing staff hit.

Car maker Ford is to shed hundreds of jobs in the UK and Germany as part of a programme to save $200m (£138m) a year.

The group said it was launching a voluntary redundancy programme as it looked to slash costs across its European business, in the face of mounting regulatory costs.
It comes after Ford recently revealed that its European operation had returned to profit for the first time in four years in 2015.
Production and product development workers will not be affected by the job cuts. The company said they were mainly likely to go in administration and marketing.
Ford no longer makes cars in Britain but still employs 14,000 workers in the country. Plants in Dagenham and Bridgend make car parts and there are also sites in Dunton in Essex, Daventry in Northamptonshire, and a head office at Warley in Essex. The company employs 53,000 people in Europe.
Jim Farley, head of Ford's European, Middle East and Africa business, said: "In the past three years, Ford of Europe has improved its business in all areas and moved from deep losses to a $259m (£179m) profit in 2015. This is a good first step.
"We are absolutely committed to accelerating our transformation, taking the necessary actions to create a vibrant business that's solidly profitable in both good times and down cycles.
"We are creating a far more lean and efficient business that can deliver healthy returns and earn future investment.
"Our job is to make our vehicles as efficiently as possible, spending every dollar in a way that serves customers' needs and desires, and creating a truly sustainable, customer-focused business."
Ford has already shut three car plants in western Europe in 2013 and reached cost-saving agreement with unions in Germany and said that it was continuing to "enhance its cost efficiency and manufacturing capacity utilisation".
Its latest announcement on jobs involves what the company calls a "voluntary separation programme".
Meanwhile, Ford is also boosting its product line in Europe with seven new and updated vehicles being launched this year.
Hybrid and electric vehicles are to be introduced in Europe by 2020 as part of Ford's previously-announced $4.5bn (£3.1bn) investment in electrified vehicles.

New Law In London Would Fine Homeless £1,000 For Sleeping Outside Or “Loitering”

By John Vibes
The homeless people in Hackney, London are facing expulsion from the street due to a new law will allow the police to give out fines and other legal penalties to homeless people who are found loitering, begging and sleeping in commercial places.
This “Public Space Protection Order” which was introduced by the council of Hackney will place a fine of £1000 on homeless activities. The order has been met with numerous criticisms, with many pointing out that the new laws effectively outlaw homelessness.
Matt Downie of homelessness charity Crisis, one of the major opponents of this legislation, said that the homeless population in London has been victimized enough.

“Rough sleepers deserve better than to be treated as a nuisance – they may have suffered a relationship breakdown, a bereavement or domestic abuse. Those who sleep on the streets are extremely vulnerable and often do not know where to turn for help. These individuals need additional support to leave homelessness behind, and any move to criminalize sleeping rough could simply create additional problems to be overcome,” Downie said.
A similar scenario was supposed to happen in Oxford, but during the consultation process, there was so much outcry from the local population that the government was forced to pull back on their proposal. In the case of Hackney, there was not a single consultation before the policy was introduced.
The policy has been largely rejected by people in Hackney, and there have been thousands of people to sign petitions that ask for the ban to be lifted. However, it is not clear if the city has any intention of paying attention to these people.
We have covered many other instances of homelessness being criminalized in recent months. As we reported just a few weeks ago, that homeless people and supporters in Sacramento were protesting a recent ordinance that makes it illegal for them to camp in the city. Many of them were camped out in front of city hall for the past month and are demanding a reversal of the camping ban. Soon after, police invaded the encampment in riot gear and made several arrests.
In another story, we recently covered a homeless man was arrested in Fairfax Virginia this week after police discovered a home that he made for himself in a local park.

This article (http://www.trueactivist.com/new-law-in-london-would-fine-homeless-1000-for-sleeping-outside-or-loitering/New Law In London Would Fine Homeless £1,000 For Sleeping Outside Or “Loitering”) is free and open source. You have permission to republish this article under a Creative Commons license with attribution to the author and TrueActivist.com.
John Vibes is an author and researcher who organizes a number of large events including the Free Your Mind Conference. He also has a publishing company where he offers a censorship free platform for both fiction and non-fiction writers. You can contact him and stay connected to his work at his Facebook page. You can purchase his books, or get your own book published at his website www.JohnVibes.com.

Germany Considering Banning Cash Transactions Over €5,000

(EUROPE)  The German ministry of finance wants to impose a limit of €5,000 on cash payments in order to better track the financing of international terrorists, FAZ reported.
The German government is considering imposing a limit of 5,000 euros ($5,480) on cash payments in order to better track the financing of international terrorism, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) reported on Tuesday.

“The threat of international terrorism, especially in the form of the Islamic State (Daesh), is behind the move, but restrictions on cash have been discussed for some time for other reasons,” FAZ reported.

A source in the German Federal Ministry of Finance said that the use of pre-paid cards and large amounts of cash by the terrorists who carried out the November 13 terror attacks in Paris is one of the reasons for the proposal.

“The world after the Paris terror attacks is no longer the same as before,” the ministry source told FAZ, and likened the move to the banning of liquids on airplanes following the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001.

​Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SDP), which forms Germany’s ruling coalition with Angela Merkel’s CDU party and the Bavarian CSU party, has already called for the imposition of a 5,000 euro limit on cash transactions in the belief that it would better prevent money laundering and tax evasion.
“In our opinion there is no plausible or legal reason to conduct a cash transaction above this limit,” the SDP stated in a parliamentary paper last month. In addition, the party wants to ban the 500 euro banknote to stop it being used by organized crime.
“Germany is a popular destination for organized crime and the Mafia,” the SDP wrote.

“In the federal republic alone almost 60 billion euros ($66 billion) are laundered every year.”

Germany is one of a minority of EU member states that currently do not have a limit on cash transactions.
The strictest caps are in Italy, where cash payments over 1,000 euros were banned in 2011 to fight tax evasion, and in France, which in 2015 limited fiscal residents to spending 1,000 euros and non-residents to 10,000 euros in cash

Collapse Spreading: World’s largest steelmaker kicked out of credit markets, begins closing plants in Europe. US next.

ArcelorMittal Seen Locked Out of Markets as Steel Punishes Bonds

• Company faces $15 billion repayment bill over next six years
• Steelmaker struggling to cope with metals-price plunge

ArcelorMittal SA, the steelmaker facing almost $15 billion of bond repayments over about six years, has been locked out of credit markets, according to money managers.
Bonds of the world’s largest producer of the alloy have fallen to levels that make an immediate return to the market too costly, said Olivier Monnoyeur, a high-yield portfolio manager at BNP Paribas Investment Partners. Thirteen of ArcelorMittal’s 16 notes due by 2022 have fallen this year, with some quoted at as low as 75 percent of face value, and with some yields as high as 12 percent, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
“Yields in the market for ArcelorMittal are not sustainable and restrict their access to the bond market,” said Monnoyeur at BNP Paribas Investment Partners, which oversees about 509 billion euros. “I am not sure the appetite to invest will be there.”
A spokesman for ArcelorMittal in London said the company had a “very strong liquidity” position. He declined to comment on refinancing activity. The company saidon Jan. 19 it had cut its 2016 cash needs by $1 billion and identified $1 billion of structural improvements.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-01-27/arcelormittal-seen-locked-out-of-markets-as-steel-punishes-bonds
Steel crisis spreads to Europe as Arcelor Mittal shuts Spanish plant
Steelmaker mothballs Spanish plant, showing crisis that has cost 5,000 UK jobs is spreading to Europe

Fresh evidence of how the steel crisis is intensifying has come from Spain, with Arcelor Mittal mothballing a plant in Sestao.

The company blamed record steel imports from China at “below production prices” and “falling selling prices” for the decision to shut the electric arc furnace plant near Bilbao in northern Spain, which produces slab and coil steel.

European steel companies are under intense pressure from Chinese rivals, who are flooding the market with cheap steel as demand falls in their home market.

Most of China’s steel industry is government backed, with Beijing subsidising production so that plants can run at a loss.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/industry/12119963/Steel-crisis-spreads-to-Europe-as-Arcelor-Mittal-shuts-Spanish-plant.html
China lost 500,000 jobs in steel recently (all the ones it added in the boom over the last decade)… and is expected to lose another 1,000,000 this year… this is a global problem. Did you see the advert for the Vietnamese name around the pitch at a recent Premier League match? It was a steel company. While China factory wages are about $3.60ph (compared to $36 in Europe) Vietnam is just $1.50…. and Indonesia comes in at $0.60 ph… there is a massive capacity glut and a whole new generation of cheap production sites to contend with. We need a “health & safety tax to equalise the difference between standards – not one on the wage difference but the extra risks those people take we would not impose on our own people to make the price a little less noncompetitive & encourage take up of better working standards in places that supply our demand.

FE