03-07-2017, 02:37 PM
(11-26-2016, 12:16 AM)ralphy link Wrote: [quote author=Jerry link=topic=3641.msg27538#msg27538 date=1480057631]
I've added some new content to the Manual (online Manual shows these). Would someone mind writing up a short, plain English explanation of what Wine is and what you use it for? Thank you.
In short (plain English explanation):
Quote:Wine application is a compatibility layer capable of running many Windows programs in Linux.
A bit more descriptive:
Quote:Wine application is a compatibility layer capable of running many Windows programs in Linux. Software programs are designed for different operating systems, and most won't work on systems that they weren't designed for.
Windows programs won't natively run in Linux because they contain instructions that the system can't understand until they're translated by the Windows environment. In that same way, Linux programs won't run under the Windows operating system because Windows is unable to interpret all of their instructions.
Through Wine's compatibility layer, when a Windows program tries to perform a function that Linux doesn't normally understand, Wine will translate that program's instruction into one supported by Linux.
I think that's plain enough, and boldly describes what it is and what it does.
[/quote]
You may want to add a disclaimer of sorts.
WINE will not run *most* windows software.
In particular some of those that require .net framework may not install or run properly or those requiring certain windows components.
WINE will not work with many blood sugar testers, GPS devices, etc. when you plug in the device to download/upload readings or obtain updates.
Before seeking WINE to resolve a program need, look here:
http://www.linuxalt.com/
WINE cannot play some high end video games or will not play satisfactorily.
Some internet places may require the use of a full version of Windows (not too many and the list is getting shorter). Generally some of those sites require internet exploder.
Sometimes it is better to run a full version of windows inside a virtual machine than to use WINE.
PlayOnLinux is a companion to WINE. It may help with getting games to play.
Also, a warning!
If you install WINE, you must install a suitable antivirus/antimalware as you can introduce malware into your linux system inadvertently.
For game players - you can install STEAM, but that too is quite limited.
Look here for additional information:
https://itsfoss.com/linux-gaming-guide/
Here is one place that can help with issues but it is not free-
https://www.codeweavers.com/
Codeweavers (WINE is based on this) is pretty awesome but it still cannot run every Windows software.
If all else fails and you just 'GOTTA HAVE' that certain game or software and when the above doesn't work or work well enough for you, you can consider dual booting linux and windows (not always successful but many times it does work)
Personal note: I have tried may ways like the above with varying success. Best order I have found is this:
1) Get Linux equivalent (Usually works)
2) Dual booting (mostly unsuccessful)
3) Virtual machine (Mostly successful)
4) WINE (sometimes works)
5) Use two different computers (Always works)
Wife made me afraid of squirrels. She said I was a NUT? Go figure...