If you've spent any time at all on this blog, you've quickly learned I am a big fan of a Linux Operating System distribution known as Ubuntu. I encourage everyone to give Ubuntu a test-drive, to see if perhaps they might find it better than the operating system installed on their desktop or notebook computer.
I know, some of you started shying away when I said that magical word - Linux. If you are scared by that wonderful word, I suggest you take the blue pill. The story ends, you will wake up in your bed and believe whatever Bill Gates or Steve Jobs wants you to believe.
For those that want to learn more, read on. (No red pill involved!)
How many of you are running a Windows-based computer on Windows XP? Aren't you interested in what Windows 7 would be like on your computer? I bet you've given it some thought, but you've been holding back because of the cost of upgrading the operating system. Or some of you may even think the upgrade to Windows 7 would require the purchase of an new computer.
Why not consider using Ubuntu Linux?
Ubuntu is not going to make you decipher Matrix-like displays on your monitor. It has a very user-friendly Graphical User Interface (GUI) that closely matches what you see in Windows or OS X.
And whereas Microsoft is well-known for releasing a new version of Windows every couple of years, with an accompanying price tag to cover its licensing fees, Ubuntu is available to you at absolutely no charge. Yes, you read that correctly. Ubuntu is free. Ubuntu will always be free. Zero licensing fees. Download the software for free and use it on as many installations as you like. Copy the CD and give a copy to everyone you know. Nobody will be looking to hunt you down for any copyright/license violations.
Instead of waiting 2-3 years to release a new operating system version, Ubuntu issues and new desktop and server release every 6 months. If you want the latest and greatest version of Ubuntu, you're never any more than 6 months behind with stable releases. And if you're adventurous, you can always use beta releases of what is going to be issued next. Ubuntu 10.04, a.k.a. Lucid Lynx isn't due to be released until 29 April, but I've been using it for a month. And remember, the latest version of Ubuntu costs as much as your initial version. Nothing.
If security is an issue (and if you're running Windows, it better be!), rest assured in the knowledge Ubuntu takes security very seriously. For those running Ubuntu 9.10, which was the last stable release, they can depend on getting security updates for another year before needing to upgrade. For those deciding to use Ubuntu 10.04, which will be an LTS or Long Term Support version, there will be three years support on desktop versions and five years on server versions. And Ubuntu is set up to check for updates and to notify you when a new update is available.
After you download Ubuntu to your computer, you then burn the software image to a single CD. That CD can be used to boot your computer into Ubuntu without making any permanent changes. You can boot from the CD, use Ubuntu as if it were installed on your system and check things like wireless connections, printers, etc.
Once you've decided to make the step and install Ubuntu on your computer, you will be guided by another GUI interface that will ask you simple questions and set up the installation according to your answers. A complete install of Ubuntu from the CD generally takes less than 30 minutes. And once the installation is complete, your computer is ready to use. No lengthy registration procedures required. And you will already have a full set of productivity, drawing, Internet and graphics applications. And don't fret, you'll also have some games.
With an Internet connection, the Ubuntu Software Center gives you access to thousands of free and open-source software applications. No need to go to the mall to purchase anything. The applications are all cataloged for you and can be installed with a click of your mouse.
You can browse the Internet with Mozilla Firefox, a full-featured browser that offers faster and safer browsing than Internet Explorer. Evolution Mail is installed by default, but I always recommend people use Mozilla Thunderbird for their e-mail needs.
Ubuntu 10.04 is very social, so you'll have Twitter and instant messenger clients at your fingertips.
You can import photos from your camera or phone and manipulate them with an impressive array of imaging software. For those of you that want to have the graphics power of Adobe Photoshop but cannot afford a copy, you'll find the Gimp can perform the same functions at the same price as Ubuntu itself. Free.
Plug in your player and use Rhythmbox to download, buy, store and play your favorite songs.
For those of you wondering how you might get along without Office, you will be happy to discover Open Office. Another free application that is compatible with Microsoft Office. And I find Open Office to be much better than Office, because there is no Mr. Clippy to be found.
For those concerned about leaving Windows or OS X behind, it is very easy to set up Ubuntu as a dual-boot, so you can select the operating system you prefer at start-up. Ubuntu is very friendly and wants you to use your computer as you want.
If you're ready to start using a stable and secure software platform, visit the Ubuntu site and download your own copy.
Related posts:
- Back to Ubuntu
- Ubuntu 10.04, Lucid Lynx is now available
- Lucid Lynx Gets Two Thumbs Up
- Linux Mint
- Lucid Lynx is due tomorrow
