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--- channels:linux [2007/03/04 05:18] – rubin
+++ channels:linux [2025/11/18 17:00] (current) – [FAQ] rubin
@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
+====== Not Just #Linux ======
+{{:linux.gif }}
+Channel #linux is a hangout for lovers of operating systems and computers in general. From Linux to Windows, software to hardware, everything's welcome.
-====== #Linux ======
-A hangout for all the linux users of AfterNET.
-{{:linux.gif    }}
 ===== FAQ =====
-  * What distro do you reccomend?
-    * We tend to suggest [[http://www.ubuntulinux.com|Ubuntu]] a lot, but there are advocates of everything from Slackware to Gentoo and even rolling your own. It really depends on your hardware, yourself, and what you need it to do.
+  * What's the topic?
-  * I have never used linux, but I want to try it, how do I get started?
+     * Operating systems and computing in general. While Linux is a common subject, idle and serious chat and banter about Unix, Windows, or anything else is common and accepted.
-    * We suggest you get an [[http://www.ubuntulinux.com|Ubuntu]] 'live-cd' -- this is a special CDROM that will boot linux on your computer without touching your hard drive. You can try it out and see what its like, with no commitment or risk to your data.
+  * Is the topic enforced?
+     * Not typically, but it's the sort of discussion to expect, both to see and engage in.
+  * Can I ask questions?
+     * Sure, some guidelines on how to get helpful answers are available below. Chiefly, don't ask to ask, just ask.
+  * I'm new, what operating system / linux distro should I use?
+     * It's all up to you, either for you to discuss, debate, and compare opinions within the channel, or for you to explore for yourself. Every choice is a different compromise.
+     * Just kidding. [[https://linuxmint.com/|Linux Mint]] is the best.
+     * But, I use [[https://archlinux.org/|Arch]] BTW
+===== General Channel Guidelines =====
+  * Remain civil, remember that behind every username sits a person. Debate, don't attack.
+  * Don't derail conversations needlessly. Read the room.
+  * Don't use the names for groups/types of people to be derogatory.
+  * Label NSFW stuff clearly, so people can safely click (other) links while at work if they want.
+===== How to Get the Most Out of a Question =====
+#linux is a place to chat as much as it is a place to discuss problems and get help. Questions are permitted and welcome, however weak questions create weak answers. There's a few things you can keep in mind to make it as likely as possible you'll find what you're looking for:
+  * You don't need permission to ask a question. Just go ahead and ask.
+  * #linux is not a search engine. If someone solved your problem with an easy search, you could have done it yourself.
+  * Be specific and include details. As well, keep things concise. Ask questions, not essays.
+  * Configs help, but if it's more than a couple of lines, use a paste tool such as pastebin.
+  * Ask and then wait. Be patient, and give people a chance to see your message and reply.
+  * Try to ask questions to point yourself in the right direction. The more you can learn yourself, the better.
+  * #linux is not an authority. Respect people's advice, but understand it rather than blindly follow.
+===== How to Give the Most when Answering a Question =====
+Just as much as asking good questions is beneficial to the channel, knowing how to give helpful answers is also a benefit. Here's a few suggestions as to what to keep in mind when trying to help someone:
+  * Nobody knows everything. Be kind to people who are new or are having trouble doing what might seem simple to you.
+  * Your way isn't always the best. Just because you like what works for you, doesn't mean other people must do it your way too. Suggest, don't demand.
+  * Try not to mislead people. As generous as it is to try and help, not being sure yourself may do more harm than good.
+  * Help people to figure things out by themselves. Sometimes pointing people in the right direction is the best help you can give.
+  * Be concise, yet detailed. It's as helpful for answers as it is for questions.