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How to minimize pain of Windows in work environment? (sh.itjust.works)

submitted 3 days ago* (last edited 3 days ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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Hello all! I began working today, where the work is closely related to programming. Despite this, the work computer is set up as Windows (eww). I want to look for work-arounds, as installing linux on a work machine is a no-go.

I wonder, what is the way to minimize pain from having to use windows? Either that, or a way to maximize work done on linux-like stuffs. A linux server is given for us, and I think I can install WSL. Any recommendations on this setup?

Especially, I miss the virtual desktop feature, is there any way to use it? Is there a way I can run compositor through WSL? Also, should I install Pop! OS for the feature, or is it available on e.g. Ubuntu (default WSL)?

Sorry to ask a non-exclusively-linux question, but I think, hopefully, many linux people have experience to give me pointers what to do with a windows work environment.

EDIT: The Windows is Windows 10.

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[–] [email protected] 5 points 2 days ago

I've cracked this code (at least for me)

Use Hyper-V to create a workspace VM, using your favorite OS.

Keep all business related things on the host:

email
instant mesenger
meeting software
MDM
etc

Put all dev related thing in VM

docker
ide/text editor
dev tools

Set up "enhanced sessions" with

shared drives
clipboard integration
automatic monitor resizing

It isn't easy, and a lot of the sotware used for deep integration is archived but it still works. But since Hyper-V is integrated with the windows kernel, you can achieve near-metal performance with minimal tweaking.

Best part? New laptop? Just export the VM onto it, you lose nothing.

This even works in Windows 11.

I have played the cat and mouse game of Docker for windows and WSL and been dissapointed time and time again. No more.

Free yourself. Escape Windows development pain. Carve out a palace of your own design from within the jail provided you, and make it the best dev environment for you.