Tips and Review of Ubuntu Linux (8.04) Operating System

As a diehard Windows user I was finally talked into trying Linux by a friend of mine. He recommended a few of the many distributions (see also Redhat, Fedora, openSUSE, mandriva, Debian,...) but I ended up with the most user friendly distribution, Ubuntu. Since trying it I have learned quite a lot about the Linux operating system that I would like to pass on in this review.

I have had Ubuntu Linux installed onto two different laptops (my old laptop and the one I currently use). On my old laptop Ubuntu Linux was installed exclusively. What a mistake that was! Unfortunately I was unable to use the Quicken software that I had been using under Windows XP for financial management. I searched for popular alternatives but nothing compared to the ease of use of Quicken. I also ran into problems with my video card and wireless network card. Luckily, the Ubuntu forums came to my rescue and helped me figure out the wireless card; a quick driver install and simple commands got me up and running in no time. The video card was the same story. With the exception of DVD 'backup' software, I replaced every piece of software with a Linux equivalent and I was pleased with its performance.

After my first laptop died, I got a new HP. Eager to continue my adventure with Linux I researched a dual-boot configuration. Four hours later I had a fully functional copy of Vista alongside a fully functional copy of Ubuntu Linux (Just like I had configured on my previous laptop). Not too much has changed; I still can't use Quicken in Linux and I prefer Vista for the DVD 'backup' software available but everything beyond that is awesome.

Pros:

+ Linux is free and so are any updates and software packages you download

+ It is safe because there aren't really any viruses that can affect Linux

+ The community is large and helpful (like tech support but it's actually GOOD)

+ Programs are easy to use and the environment resembles Windows so it is easy to learn

+ Stability - I haven't had one crash or memory error

Cons:

- Some video and wireless driver problems (do research first)

- not as functionally advanced as XP/Vista (but getting closer each day)

Recommendations:

1. Do research before you install.

Does Linux support your computer's hardware? Do the programs you use work in Linux? Is there an equivalent program that you can replace it with?

2. Stick with Ubuntu as your first Linux trial.

Most likely you will be using Ubuntu because it is quickly approaching the functionality of Windows with at least twice the stability. It is a user friendly distribution with good support and large community forums.

3. Try Ubuntu on a spare computer or make a dual-boot configuration.

This allows for a stress free trial of Linux because you keep your current operating system just in case you decide that Linux is not for you. As for a dual-boot config, it's definitely worth it to be able to choose how your computer operates. A dual-boot configuration will allow you to keep your working copy of windows alongside your new version of Ubuntu Linux. Also, on an old machine Linux will run much better than Widows and you probably have much more freedom when tweaking around.

4. When in need of help, look to the Ubuntu Forums.

This is by far the best place to go for any questions you may have. Many of the users on these forums are happy to help with any problems you may run into.

Overall, I recommend that you give Linux a try. If I were to give it a rating it would receive a 7.5/10. After my six month use of Linux, I strongly recommend that people use it as their primary operating system (esp. for internet use) and only revert to Windows when absolutely necessary (such as my case with using Quicken).