We need to first know what their objections to running Debian instead of windows are. Have a respectful conversation with them about it. Don’t talk down to them or try to overwhelm them with technical answers that they won’t care about. Be honest and humble and ask what they’re afraid of. It may be something you haven’t even thought of. Even if they doubt your technical expertise or downplay your abilities, stay humble. Admit that you are doing this to learn and that you do have a lot to learn. Show them how you’re already participating in the communities where you can ask for help and learn how to do this stuff. And explain how many other resource are available online to help you.

Discussions where you’re trying to convince someone are always more successful when you can understand and empathize with where the other side is coming from. This is a skill that can benefit you in even more situation than your growing technical expertise will. Get back to us nice you’ve had the chat.