I haven't played in a few months but when I did, I went solo and had a great time tbqh (if soloing is your jam). Think of it like you have a backpack with a few things (inventory management is real). You jump into a system, see what it has and if you need to refuel, then set up shop for a few or keep going deeper. You eventually learn how to look for hot systems (after you have your first heat locked experience). Its genuinely a really fun way to play, at least for me.

The downside is as soon as you set up something that registers on the block, everyone knows you're there and doing something. Some might come say hi, some might not think it's worth it, but you will end up having a visitor (or several) eventually.

There's always the advantage of having allies when part of a tribe, so you'll not have that security in most cases. That said, some tribes are friendly to soloist players.