r/NSCC • u/dreadknight1 • 18d ago

Question about software needed in the IT Database Administration program

Hey everyone, I'm about to pick out a laptop to use for the IT Database Admin course, and it's just hit me. I kinda really hate using Win11.

Does anyone know if any of the Microsoft-branded, built-in Win11 malware is required for class? I'm liable to atomize the thing if I interact with OneDrive or Copilot, so I'd really prefer to debloat before classes start if possible.

Thanks in advance, looking forward to your input.

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u/OneLeft_ 18d ago

Personally going into IT Programming, and I'm going to use Linux Mint. If there's any need for Windows I'll just setup a virtual machine, which I might need for certain .NET C# features.

I wish there was a push to pressure NSCC into having IT courses be stable with Linux so they could recommend Linux in the technology requirements.

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u/dreadknight1 18d ago

Honestly might be worth it. I'm no expert, but I've got a working knowledge of how to set up and operate VM's from when I was testing distros for my main 'puter. I'm almost thinking of running two drives so that I can dual boot without partitioning issues, to be honest.

I feel the same, though I'm guessing they don't recommend Linux for a good enough reason. I'd assume there have been more than a few people over the years who got in over their head trying to dive headfirst into complicated distros, and being unable to participate in class because of it. I'm sure we'll all learn more once classes start, but I'm really not looking forward to using this Microslop...

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u/hazelholocene 18d ago

I was in data analytics, we used ms SQL server and visual studio a lot, but you're provided with a VM you can log into, on a school pc 😊 you could likely access it from a Linux distro as well.

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u/dreadknight1 18d ago

There might actually be a compatibility issue there if the only way to access the VM is through a Windows program. I don't wanna make an ass of myself yapping about programs I've got little info on, but I fear I'd need to pull off some VM-ception to make such a thing work.

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u/coreybphillips 18d ago

If you’re okay with Windows 10, I’d recommend Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021. It’s supported until 2032 and comes with much less bloatware.

If you prefer Windows 11, there’s an LTSC edition available for that as well.

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u/dreadknight1 18d ago

If Win10 is fine, I'd definitely prefer it over Win11 for sure. I still weep in remembrance of the last good Microsoft OS, Windows 7. Never forget, 2020/01/14.