Tips for Ubuntu 10.4 LTS Linux Beginners

Initially released in October of 2004, Ubuntu is based on Debian and is one of the many Linux distributions released over the years. Linux has always had a reputation for being extremely complex for beginners, however Ubuntu promises to be user-friendly and an extremely fast operating system that everyone can enjoy.

As the fan base for Ubuntu continues to grow in size, many people will be searching the Internet for tips on how to start the transition from Microsoft Windows to Ubuntu. Will Microsoft Windows be overtaken by Ubuntu? Probably not, but it provides an amazing alternative to the current operating systems.

Update

One of the first things that any new Ubuntu user needs to do is update to the most current version of the operating system possible. This will allow for extra features and useful applications to be added for the user to enjoy. Make sure to keep all other folders and applications closed during the update process.

The update process is started by clicking System, Administration, and then Update Manager. This will notify the user of any upgrades for the operating system, or Ubuntu applications.

Customize

Ubuntu is extremely customizable from the desktop to the widgets one can place on the desktop. After updating, a new Ubuntu user should start exploring the system and customize settings to familiarize themselves with operating system.

Keep in mind that Ubuntu is extremely different then Windows, so the learning curve may be steep at times, but many believe the conversion is worth it. Customizing the appearance of the desktop can be done two ways, first by clicking System, Preferences, and then Appearances.

Secondly, new Ubuntu users can right click on the desktop and change, add, or remove panels around the sizes of the screen. Aside from that, the user can add transparency to these panels or add applets to them which have a wide variety or custom list of functions.

Reach Out

One major tip for new Ubuntu users would be to reach out to other Ubuntu users around the world by signing up for the Ubuntu forums and some of the operating systems many support groups. Interestingly enough there are groups around the world that are designed to spread the word of Ubuntu, the groups meet on IRC and in the real world frequently.

The main purpose of these groups are to advise new Ubuntu users how to handle certain features of Ubuntu should they encounter a problem. Everyone in the community tends to be extremely friendly so don't be shy when in need of help, and most of the Ubuntu users seem to be extremely intelligent and most will go out of their way to help.

Enjoy

Last but not least, a new Ubuntu user will need to enjoy their new operating system, whether it be by surfing the Internet or simply playing one of the many free down-loadable games that Ubuntu offers. Remember that almost everything on Ubuntu is completely customizable, especially if the user has knowledge of coding.

Ubuntu is open source, as are many of the applications programed for it. That means that anyone with proper knowledge of coding has the ability to create, or modify programs. This provides some education and experience that is worthy of any resume.