(Finally) made the full switchover - here's how I did it

Hey all!

I've been using Linux (primarily Ubuntu, sometimes Mint, sometimes Arch btw) on and off since 2004, when I first ordered Ubuntu 04.04 CD's shipped to me from South Africa!

Since then, I've always used and loved Linux in some capacity, but it's always been dev, never prod - I never FULLY switched.

Last week I had an epiphany - I don't really do anything Windows-specific. I'm not a gamer, streamer or running any proprietary software that requires Windows. So why not switch?

Here's how I was finally able to make the (hopefully) permanent switch:

• Use cross-platform software, including:
  • GNS3
  • VS Code
  • Audacity
  • OBS
  • SecureCRT
  • GQRX
  • Pulse SMS
  • Synergy
  • SyncThing
  • ThunderBird
  • Spotify
  • Boson Net/Ex-Sim (via Crossover)
  • CHIRP (via workaround)
  • Guitar Pro 7.5 (via Crossover)

With this software list, I'm able to cover most everything that I do on my PC. Almost everything else is handled through the website's respective WebApp.

I don't really game, but in case I really want to play something, I can usually run it on Steam, or if absolutely necessary, use CrossOver Linux/Lutris.

I was able to finally use Crossover and give it a thorough test, and it ran the few windows-specific software fairly well, with a few installation quirks. Same with some of the Ham radio software (mainly, CHIRP)

I spent some time today playing with SyncThing, so this will allow me to sync my files between Laptop & Desktop as I move around the house/work on various projects. I'm able to use Synergy Pro (purchased 10+ years ago when a lifetime license was $10!) to work on both PC and Laptop in my office, and then have pretty much the same software installed across both machines.

I suppose I didn't really have a point to this post other than to be thankful that such great software exists to allow me to finally switchover.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!