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All about Ubuntu
Ubuntu is an unlikely sounding name for a rival to Microsoft Windows but it is gaining popularity - and it's free
Vista will in time supersede XP and users will eventually need to upgrade to run the latest programmes.
But there are alternatives. Technology writer Andrew Stucken boots up Ubuntu, the open source operating system described as 'Linux your grandmother could use'.
What is it? Ubuntu is a version of Linux - like Windows, an operating system - software which enables other programmes to run.
Why 'Ubuntu'? Ubuntu is an African worldview which can be translated as 'I am because you are' - and means individuals need other people to be fulfilled.
Why use Ubuntu? The stated aim is to 'spread and bring the benefits of software to all parts of the world'. The main attraction is its price – ie: nothing – compared with Vista at around £100 for more basic versions. But the co-operative ethos will appeal to many as well.
So I use this instead of Windows? No, not necessarily. The beauty is that it can be run alongside Windows using something called 'dual boot'. If desired, you can do away with Windows altogether and use only Ubuntu. However: proceed with caution. It is highly advisable to boot Ubuntu from CD first, to see how you like it.
Where do I get Ubuntu? The desktop version can either be downloaded or installed from a free CD. See www.ubuntu.com - download should take around 25 minutes on broadband. It is not recommended via dial-up.
What are the system requirements? At least 4GB of disk space and 384MB of RAM, to install from the ‘live’ CD.
What do I do with it? Download it and you will be prompted to burn a copy onto CD or DVD. You should order a CD if you do not have the facility to burn them.
And then? Insert the CD in the disk drive and follow onscreen prompts. Clear instructions can be found at http://news.softpedia.com/news/
How-to-Install-Ubuntu-7-04-Windows-User-P-O-V-52973.shtml
Can I install this on my Macintosh? Yes. Ubuntu is said to be the easiest Linux version for Macs.
What exactly do I get? Ubuntu comes with the OpenOffice suite, Firefox browser, an instant messenger and graphics editor. Moreover, there is a free download library of more than 1000 items of software.
Can I get support? Absolutely. Both paid-for, and free support from community forums, are available.
Are there any drawbacks? Beware: not all third party software will run under Ubuntu.
Will I be able to get updates? Updates are released every six months and given colourful names. The latest is called Gutsy Gorilla - but don't let that put you off. Bear in mind there are different versions of Ubuntu, aimed at different types of user - Kubuntu, Ebuntu etc. See www.ubuntu.com for details.
Will upgrades be released? Yes. The idea is to release upgrades every six months.
Clearly the installation demands a level of experience – but for a refreshing change from ubiquitous Windows, Ubuntu could be well worth the effort.
