niccolove

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Jan 8, 2020
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On January 14th, 2020, Microsoft will end all support for Windows 7. This means that computers that run on Windows 7 will no longer get important security updates and you will no longer be able to get customer support if you do have a problem. If you still own a computer that runs Windows 7, you should find out how to proceed. One among many options is to switch your operating system to Linux and use KDE Plasma.
Here's an actual screenshot of a customized Plasma:

Linux is part of an operating system that is used everywhere, from Android phones to cameras to servers or supercomputers. It is known to be very stable, secure (there has not been a single widespread virus or ransomware case for Linux) and the best thing is that it is completely free! As I already said, Linux is only a part of a bigger package which makes up your operating system. Another part is the way your desktop looks and acts. There are many options that you can pick from, but one that looks and feels very similar to Windows 7 is KDE Plasma.
KDE Plasma is made by KDE (KDE Community Home), a worldwide community that makes free software for everyone. We work together to create over 200 powerful and intuitive programs for you to use and be productive with. Without any modifications, KDE Plasma already looks similar to Windows. But because we believe that you should be able to make your desktop truly yours, we give you extensive customization options. You can see a video example where we quickly adapted the look to be more like the Windows 7 ("Aero") one at <link to video>. You can learn more about KDE Plasma at Plasma.
For a long time, Linux was known as being hard to use and had only a very limited selection of software available. This is no longer the case. Using Linux and KDE Plasma is no harder than using Windows or macOS - editing countless configuration files and running arcane commands is not required anymore. You can also enjoy a massive selection of programs that cover a big majority of needs.
Interested? Trying out and installing Linux with KDE Plasma is easier than ever before. You can follow the generic steps at How to Install Linux and then use one of the options from Choose a Linux distribution and start using KDE software whenever need to choose a "distribution" (don't worry - all 4 options on this link are similar and any should work for you). This will also allow you to test KDE Plasma without modifiying your computer at all! If you have any problems or questions, then come to Riot and join #kde-welcome. This is a friendly chat room where experienced KDE and Linux users will gladly help you through the installation process.
 
It's great to see your enthusiasm for Linux and KDE Plasma as alternatives for users transitioning from Windows 7. Linux distributions with user-friendly desktop environments like KDE Plasma offer a secure, customizable, and no-cost operating system, providing a viable option for those moving away from Windows 7 due to the end of support. Here are some key points regarding your message and vision for transitioning users:
  • Benefits of Linux: Highlight the security, stability, extensive software options, and customization flexibility that Linux distributions provide.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Emphasize KDE Plasma's Windows-like look and feel, along with its adaptability for users familiar with the Windows operating system.
  • Ease of Use: Mention the improved usability of modern Linux distributions, making them as accessible as Windows or macOS for regular users.
  • Installation Assistance: Provide installation guides or links to resources like WikiHow for step-by-step installation instructions, and KDE distributions for users to explore.
Your message effectively communicates the advantages of choosing Linux with KDE Plasma, dispelling common misconceptions about Linux's complexity and software limitations. By promoting its ease of use and desktop familiarity, users migrating from Windows 7 can confidently explore the open-source world.