I'm a Linux power user, but NixOS has made me rethink what an operating system can be

Source: ZDNet

Key takeaways

• NixOS is an open‑source operating system that is available to install and use for free.
• It offers several desktop environments to choose from, is as rock‑solid as any OS on the market, and performs quite well.
• However, there’s a fairly steep learning curve for installing non‑free software.

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Introduction for New Linux Users

Before we get into this review, I want to offer some information for new Linux users. If you’re uncomfortable using the command line or diving down rabbit holes to figure out how to do something that should “just work out of the box,” then NixOS is probably not for you.

Also: This Linux distro has one of the smartest security features I’ve seen (and I’ve tested dozens)

That said, someone with minimal familiarity with the command line can still use this distribution. If you only need open‑source software, NixOS could be viable. If you need apps like Chrome, Slack, or Spotify, you might run into frustration that will send you back to Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Windows.

Distribution Overview

Not everyone wants an Ubuntu or Linux Mint distribution. I’m not saying those two operating systems aren’t outstanding, but at some point a Linux user might want something a bit more robust.

I’ve tried nearly every Linux OS I’ve come across, from the ridiculously simple (Ubuntu) to the astoundingly complex (Gentoo) and everything in between. When I find a distribution that can challenge me, I jump at the chance to see what it can do.

Such is the case with NixOS. This from‑scratch Linux distribution isn’t as difficult as Gentoo, but it’s not quite as user‑friendly as Ubuntu. Where does that leave it? Somewhere between Ubuntu and Arch Linux.

Also: RAM too expensive? Here’s how to speed up your Linux system anyway – for free

Versions and Desktop Choice

You’ll find two official versions of NixOS – one with GNOME and one with Plasma Desktop. During installation you’ll be offered a list of desktop environments to choose from. For my testing I chose the Deepin Desktop because I’m a fan of its layout.

So you might be asking: With so many easy‑to‑use desktop environments, why would NixOS be considered challenging for new users?

Installation Challenges

No GUI App Store

NixOS installs packages via the command line. A helpful web interface can generate the exact command you need. For example, to install Slack:

nix-shell -p slack

Installing Non‑Free Software

Out of the box NixOS is configured not to install non‑free software without a bit of help. When you run the above command you’ll see two ways around this:

1. Temporarily allow non‑free packages by setting an environment variable:

   export NIXPKGS_ALLOW_UNFREE=1

2. Permanently allow them for nixos-rebuild by adding the following to /etc/nixos/configuration.nix:

   nixpkgs.config.allowUnfree = true;

Even with allowUnfree set globally, you still need a user‑specific config file in ~/.config/nixpkgs. If the nixpkgs directory doesn’t exist, create it first.

Also: You can try Linux without ditching Windows first – here’s how

These hurdles make NixOS less suitable for brand‑new Linux users, but it’s a great choice for experienced users who appreciate a rock‑solid system comparable to Debian or Arch.

Using NixOS After Installation

Beyond the non‑free‑software hurdle, NixOS is stable, efficient, and secure, including nearly everything you need to get started (minus an office suite and an email client).

• Office suite: Install LibreOffice with

  nix-shell -p libreoffice

• Email client: Install Thunderbird with

  nix-shell -p thunderbird

A common frustration is that, even after successfully installing an app, it may not appear in the application menu. In my experience, after installing LibreOffice and logging out, the program seemed to vanish, forcing a reinstall. A reboot usually resolves the issue.

User Experience Quote

The thing was exactly as it should have been. I’m just not used to rebooting after installing an application in Linux. Go figure.
— Jack Wallen, ZDNET

[Image: LibreOffice running on NixOS.]

All it took was a reboot after installation and LibreOffice was in the desktop menu and ready to use.

Frustrations can mount quickly with NixOS, but they are surmountable with time, effort, and a good search engine (Google or DuckDuckGo). That’s why I recommend NixOS to Linux users who have a solid understanding of the basics.

ZDNET’s Linux Advice

Usually, when I review a Linux distribution I:

1. Install it in a VirtualBox virtual machine.
2. Kick the tires.
3. Delete the VM when I’m finished.

With NixOS, however, I plan to keep the VM around for a while so I can better learn the ins and outs of this fascinating OS.

If you’re comfortable using the Linux command line and enjoy a challenge, you should definitely give NixOS a try. Once you have everything up and running with this open‑source operating system, it won’t let you down.