Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to use a Debian Linux desktop day to day instead of Windows: open and save documents, work with LibreOffice, manage files and printing, browse and collaborate online, and apply sound security habits. Training runs on Debian. A session on Ubuntu can be arranged on request; the programme stays the same.
Audience and context
For organisations (local authorities, public bodies, companies) migrating desktops off Windows. This is not sysadmin training: it gives users autonomy so the switch does not stop the work.
Programme
Day 1: Finding your way on the Linux desktop
- Why leave Windows in your organisation (cost, hardware lifespan, control of tools)
- Desktop tour (GNOME): menu, favourites, notifications, essential settings
- Keyboard, mouse, multi-window, virtual desktops: Windows habit equivalents
- File management: file manager, home folders, USB keys, simple network shares
- Wi-Fi / Ethernet, printers, scanners: install and verify a device
- Web browser: bookmarks, passwords, PDFs, downloads
- Workshop: guided “my first day on Debian” (create documents, send webmail, test print)
Day 2: Office work, collaboration and autonomy
- LibreOffice Writer: layout, styles, templates, PDF export, .docx compatibility
- LibreOffice Calc: tables, common formulas, sorting, export, .xlsx compatibility
- LibreOffice Impress: simple decks and good practice
- Where to put files: local, shared folder, collaborative cloud (e.g. Nextcloud) depending on your estate
- Software updates for users: what to accept, what not to touch
- Everyday security: lock screen, passwords, attachments, sensitive sites
- Help and escalation: how to describe an issue to IT to save time
- Final workshop: business scenario (letter, tracking sheet, PDF send, upload to a share)
Method
Short demos alternating with hands-on labs on prepared machines. Participants work on real templates when possible. Recommended group size: 6 to 12 people.
Next step
For the IT team that deploys and maintains the estate: Linux administrators training.