Very often newbies confuse Linux and Ubuntu, considering the second a full-fledged operating system that has nothing to do with GNU / Linux distributions. This is an erroneous judgment, moreover, Ubuntu is not even an independent Linux distribution, and is based on the well-known Debian.
What is Ubuntu
Ubuntu is a Linux distribution built on top of another Linux distribution, Debian, and released under the GNU / GPL free license. In general, I think it is clear to everyone that the distribution kit is free, and any user can simply download it for personal use. Ubuntu is developed by Canonical and comes in two versions: LTS (distributions with long-term support from developers) and simple versions, supported for no more than a year. By the way, a new LTS release is expected to be released very soon: Ubuntu 18.04 LTS.
Previously, Ubuntu distributions came with Unity as their default graphical shell. Now, starting with Ubuntu 17.10, Ubuntu will ship with Gnome.
Do not forget about the huge popularity of this distribution. For a very long time, it was the first in the world rating of Linux distributions, which was compiled precisely for reasons of the popularity of this or that product. More than 20 million users prefer Ubuntu. The operating system is used both on home PCs and on the servers of huge companies.
Ubuntu history
This wonderful distribution began its history in 2004 as a temporary fork from Debian. Then the goal of the developers was to ensure the release of stable versions of the operating system every six months.
Time passed, and at the same time there was a need for some changes that were not foreseen by the main version (Debian). Less and less compatibility, and more and more independent experiences. The developers were forced to make fateful decisions, which ultimately led them to success.
Ubuntu becomes a standalone Linux distribution, and begins to promote its own philosophy, which was to create a convenient and functional operating system for everyone.
Many things beyond the reach of ordinary people have become much easier to use thanks to Ubuntu. Some applications received a GUI, some were simply lightened or crammed with useful functionality.
Now Ubuntu is not just an operating system or the brainchild of a large company. Ubuntu is a whole community of like-minded people who strive to create a good and usable product.
Features of Ubuntu
This Linux distribution has a huge number of features. They can be attributed to both pluses and minuses - you decide.
- Focused on ordinary users
- Many things are simplified
- Quirky graphical interface that takes getting used to
- High hardware compatibility
- And much more
Where to download Ubuntu
You can download the images of the Ubuntu distribution on the official Canonical resource or on our website / download-ubuntu /
You've heard of Linux, but only recently realized that this free and open source operating system is something you can actually use.
You've heard of Linux, but only recently realized that this free and open source operating system is something you can actually use. It is not difficult to install, it has many great applications, and it extends the life of your computers. Today Linux provides a decent opportunity to play games. Yes, you understood correctly. You don't need to be a Linux expert, you just need someone to hold your hand when you start.
I hear you and I'm here to help.
What is Linux?
If you are new to Linux, you can make the general assumption that this is an operating system. This is not entirely true. Linux is actually the kernel, the center of the operating system. The kernel allows software (what you see on the screen) to communicate with hardware (what you touch with your hands). Without a kernel, your system cannot function.
Therefore, when you say Linux, you most often refer to any operating system based on the Linux kernel, such as Ubuntu or Fedora. As a kernel, Linux doesn't do anything on its own. He needs someone who will link and distribute it with all the software needed to get the final result. When this happens, the resulting Linux operating system becomes known as a distribution (or “distro”).
What makes Linux different from others?
How is the Linux kernel different? Like most applications running on it, the kernel is actively supported by the Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) community.
Opening software doesn't cost money, and anyone can look at the source code and change it as they see fit. This means that experienced developers from all over the world contribute their work either for free or through sponsorships from companies like Canonical or Red Hat. However, you can also improve the software.
In contrast, Windows source code is not available to anyone other than Microsoft employees, and it is a criminal offense to decompile or reverse engineer it. You cannot build your own Windows kernel, fix bugs, or redistribute an improved version of Windows that you have created.
Linux is different, and the GNU General Public License is part of the difference. This license provides the legal basis for your rights to the software. Originally written by Richard Stallman, it ensures that even when the work is modified or improved, Linux still remains in the public domain for other people to use and enjoy. This is the most widely used license in the FOSS community
The free and open nature of a license can be a double-edged sword. Without a clear income model, development can be inconsistent. Some programs receive regular investments, while others have been dormant for many years. However, Linux has now spread to become the backbone of the Internet and the most widely used operating system for supercomputers.
After all, while using Linux is very similar to Windows and macOS, there are aspects you will need to learn for the first time. We will face many of them as we move forward.
Breathe life into your old PC
One of the common reasons people switch to Linux is the ability to continue using a computer that no longer supports the latest versions of Windows or MacOS. How good is Linux for the job, and why?
Linux is efficient: Many Linux distributions are based on years of experience in server rooms. System administrators often value slick, clean code that gets the job done without wasting power. The extra five seconds to power up the system is something that many system administrators are not willing to put up with. Because of this harsh and demanding environment, Linux distributions are the best of their kind. While with software coming from many different sources, this is not the case when every program will make the best use of system resources.
Linux is customizable: Linux allows users to customize every aspect of a computer's functionality. Some distributions recommend choosing different components and building your own system. Most of them completely work, but allow you to change or change parts as you want. Many distributions encourage you to make your own adjustments, while customizing others (such as a rudimentary OS) may require more specialized knowledge.
Linux does not require investment: The vast majority of Linux software is free to download and install. These programs are usually quite easy to use, so you don't need to spend money on training courses or books. All you need to spend to revive your old Linux computer is time.
Linux modular and specialized: You can customize a computer that is specifically designed to suit your needs: remote video control, recipe database, control panel for an amazing laser projector that changes the intensity by synchronizing with the beat of the music. You can build whatever you want. Proof of the modular design quality of Linux is the Red Hat Linux variant that was used to control the electromagnets inside the Large Hadron Collider. You'd be surprised how many things your old computer can still do.
Beginning of work
Whether you're going to install Linux yourself or buy the computer that comes with it, there are several decisions you need to make before doing this. It is necessary to know several conditions that you have not encountered before. Let's figure it out.
Choosing a distribution kit
As a reminder, a distribution is a Linux operating system that comes with all the software you need to give you a complete picture. A kernel is provided along with hardware drivers and applications.
Distributions come in all shapes and sizes. Some of them are aimed at newbies, while others are aimed at the most ardent supporters of the command line. Ubuntu, Fedora and openSUSE are three general purpose distributions suitable for people of all skill levels.
There are many other Linux distributions and they are all different from each other. Some distributions are tuned to serve a specific niche. Thus, you can install an operating system designed for multimedia creation, or an operating system designed for computers with old or weak hardware.
In this case, hardware compatibility is perhaps the most important thing to consider when switching to Linux. While most hardware is supported by default on most Linux distributions, less popular or unusual hardware may not work. In most cases, even if your device is not supported by default, you can follow the online tutorials to help you install an unsupported driver or patch your kernel, but that doesn't work for everyone. More on this later.
You can visit Distrowatch to see hundreds of Linux distributions. On the right side, you will notice that there are Top 100 most popular distributions. Note that it is difficult to estimate how many people are using Linux. Distrowatch databases are ranked according to the popularity of each distribution's website. This gives an idea of \u200b\u200bwhat people are interested in, but it is hardly an idea of \u200b\u200bwhich distributions are most widely used. Ubuntu, for example, is not currently ranked # 1, but it is considered the most widely recognized desktop Linux version.
Choosing a desktop environment
Depending on which distribution you choose, this decision may already be made for you. Most major Linux distributions provide a default desktop environment.
But maybe you haven't decided on a distribution yet. In this case, checking your desktop environment can help you make a decision. Each provides a different solution, and some work better on some distributions than others. Here are a few of the most basic ones:
GNOME is the default desktop environment in Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian. While Windows, macOS, and most Linux desktop environments display your open windows in a panel or dock, GNOME does nothing of the sort.
Instead, you switch between open windows by opening a browse screen, a dashboard that also displays an application launcher, virtual desktops, and a search bar that can access files, open software, and execute commands. Although, if you want a traditional panel, there are extensions available for that.
The KDE Plasma desktop is the default environment in KDE Neon, Kubuntu, and Chakra. It is also popular with openSUSE users.
KDE Plasma is perhaps the most customizable interface one can use on a desktop computer. For this reason, it is a great choice for power users and professionals. You can make KDE look like most other desktop interfaces without having to edit obscure files or tweak any lines of code.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon provides a simple option that seems familiar to many Windows users switching to Linux. The application menu is in the lower left corner, system indicators are in the lower right corner, and open windows are displayed in between.
If you don't want to re-learn how to use your computer, switching from Cinnamon can save you a headache. This is the default desktop environment in Linux Mint.
While Linux is a great vehicle to revive an old computer, not every desktop environment will run on aging hardware. You may need to use one specially designed to use fewer system resources.
Xfce is one of the more popular options and is well suited for this task. This is the default desktop environment in Xubuntu.
Data backup
Before we get to the nicest things, we need to do some preliminary work. Although you are probably no longer using your old computer, you should open it and find documents, videos, photos, music that you have not yet backed up. Be careful and double check, because you can erase everything from the hard drive later.
Copying is not difficult, but it can be tedious if you have a lot of scattered data. The easiest way to save files is to connect an external hard drive to the USB port.
For Windows users:
- Double-clicking on the "My Computer" icon on the desktop or in the "Start" menu opens a window containing a list of files on the external hard drive.
- Find and copy the necessary files by selecting them and pressing Ctrl + C, activating the file list of the external hard drive. Click inside the window that we opened earlier and press Ctrl + V. Alternatively, you can select files and drag them to the external hard drive window.
You can also back up all data in the Cloud. This method makes your data available on other devices with an internet connection, but it will likely cost more over time. It also contains a large number of security and privacy risks. Ultimately, you give your data to another person and trust him to do the necessary things.
Checking hardware specifications
A little knowledge of your computer's hardware will be important later if there are compatibility issues. It is important that you write them down now, because if something breaks during the installation process or on the first boot, you will need to search the Internet for a driver, patched kernel or package.
We don't need to write down all the hardware specifications, because the drivers for things like Ethernet cards are mostly compatible. Bluetooth chips, card readers and printers are more complicated, but most of them are also supported by default.
Let's say you have a very rare Ethernet card. You can use the System Profiler tool to discover specifications after the operating system installation is complete.
If you are using Windows, msinfo32 is a small program included in Windows 2000, Me, XP and later. This program gives you a complete understanding of all the technology present in your system. You can find it by opening the start menu and typing msinfo32 in the search box. On older versions of Windows, you may have to click the Run button in the Start menu and type msinfo32 there.
Linux installation
Great, you've chosen a Linux distribution, backed up your files, and you know what hardware your computer is made of. It's time to get your hands dirty.
There are three main ways to install most Linux distributions on a computer:
- Replace the existing OS with Linux
- Install Linux along with an existing OS
- Running Linux from a USB stick
Below are detailed instructions for installing Ubuntu on an existing Windows or macOS model. By choosing from the three options presented above, replacing the operating system will run smoothly and quickly on your computer.
Installing Linux without removing the existing operating system is called dual boot. Whenever you start up your computer, you will be able to choose the operating system you want to use. This stops you from getting rid of your old OS, but there is always an option to uninstall it.
Storing a copy of Linux on a USB stick allows you to download a copy of Linux to a friend's computer, in the lab, or in the library. This method requires the least commitment from you and your computer since you are not affecting your copies of Windows or macOS.
Using the Linux desktop
As you know, at the moment, there is no specific Linux desktop. But if you are, like many, if not most, a new Linux user, you are probably starting with Ubuntu. In this case, when you first enter a new operating system, you will see a screen that looks like this.
This is the Ubuntu desktop. While Canonical has added a few interesting elements of its own, the interface you see is not exclusive to Ubuntu. This is GNOME.
For a complete understanding of how to navigate this interface and other software, check out the Ubuntu beginner's guide.
Finding additional software
There comes a time when you need more applications. Where do you get them? You can get used to going to a big store and buying a program that you either install from disk or download from the internet. You can probably get all your apps by going to the individual websites and downloading the installers. You can even get all of your software from app stores that sell content to you, just like on your phone or tablet.
Windows programs for Windows only. The same applies to software for macOS. You will need to find applications designed for Linux.
Most Linux software is now available through app stores filled with freeware. Using them is similar to using the App store on any other platform. Just find the app you want and click the install button.
These app stores are an alternative to package managers, the traditional and more sophisticated way of getting software on Linux. Nowadays, you may never need to use a more advanced tool like Synaptic or Apper, but they give you more control over what you install.
While downloading installers directly from websites is not the preferred method of obtaining Linux software, there are times when this is the only option. For example, how do you install Google Chrome. It is also a common way to install commercial games from online stores such as Humble Bundle and GOG. Just know that you won't be looking for an EXE. Instead, you are more likely to find packaged files such as DEB, RPM, SH, or one of the many other Linux formats.
Now that you know how to install applications, which one will you choose? Alternatively, check out our list of the best Linux software.
Installing the update
Updates are a free part of Linux. They keep your system running the latest software. You can also get user interface improvements and fixes for programs that run in the background.
Typically, you can install updates through your distribution's app store, the same place you go to download new software. It will often have its own partition, as is the case with Ubuntu.
Downloading multimedia codec
Perhaps you've never had to think about codecs before. They allow you to play various multimedia files such as music and videos on your computer. When you buy a Windows or macOS PC, the codecs come as part of the desktop. This is usually not the case when you install Linux yourself.
This is not a bug or flaw in the Linux desktop - this is a legal issue. Many codecs remain copyrighted, and computer manufacturers must pay licensing fees in order to legally distribute them.
Laws vary from country to country. This is one of the reasons why codecs are available as a free download on many Linux distributions such as Ubuntu and Linux Mint. But there is also a paid version, you can download it in case you want the exact license to play these files.
Find additional drivers
When you change the operating system your computer came with, things don't always go smoothly. Sometimes you will need to install additional drivers or codecs to get the full picture.
If you experience graphical glitches or cannot browse Wi-Fi networks, you may need to install a proprietary driver. This is software that Linux distributions do not pre-install, so you must do it yourself. How you do this can vary depending on which distribution you are using. If you chose Ubuntu, you can find a section for installing drivers inside the software and updating the application. Software & Updates app.
What to do when you need certain software?
One of the first questions people ask when considering switching to Linux is whether they can run a particular program. When we only used one operating system, we tended to view applications as components that any computer should be able to run. But in most cases, an application is actually designed to run on only one operating system. In order to work for another, developers must build a separate version. The Windows version of Steam does not work on macOS and vice versa. Linux needs its own version too.
Since not as many people run Linux on their desktops as Windows or macOS, developers often choose not to make the Linux software version. Often a free and open source alternative that does the same job is sufficient. But there are times when people want to use a program that doesn't work on Linux and for which there is no alternative. While this may be a reason not to switch to Linux, the choice is always yours. Perhaps there are still ways to make this program work.
Emulation
You may have heard of emulators - software that people use to play console video games on their PCs. They work with code that is similar enough to mimic (or emulate) the original machines for which the games were designed. The same can be done with programs designed for personal computers.
The most famous way to emulate Windows software on Linux is using Wine. While this doesn't always work, at best, a Windows application will run alongside your regular Linux software without any additional fuss.
Since configuring Wine can be complex, there are programs that will try to do the hard work for you. There are two popular examples, PlayOnLinux and Crossover Linux. The latter is a paid app that also exists for Windows and macOS.
Virtual machines
Emulation allows an application to run on an operating system for which it was not intended. Virtual machines allow you to run an entire operating system inside the current one. Therefore, when you need to run a specific Windows program, you can launch your virtual copy of Windows and open the program.
Unlike emulation, virtual machines are guaranteed to work. The disadvantage is that you have to load a separate operating system in its own window, which can be time consuming and inconvenient. You must also have a copy of Windows or macOS to run. Obtaining one of the options can be difficult or expensive depending on your circumstances.
Everything is ready!
At this point, you have installed Linux, learned the new interface, and installed the software required to run. But your journey is just beginning. There is so much more to see and do in the world of free and open source software!
Since everything is free, you can change your distro at any time or change your current interface to any other. Nor do you need to open a command line to use Linux, as you can do a lot more if you're curious enough to give it a try.
In this article, we will considerthe main advantages of the Ubuntu operating system , how it will be interesting and useful for newcomers to administration, and what disadvantages this system has in the eyes of users. In particular, consider the Ubuntu 14.04 version, which is now quite popular. In particular, there are a large number of LINUX-based operating systems. Which are the most famous? More details in.
The Ubuntu distribution was created with the aim of becoming a convenient and understandable OS (based on Linux) for the average user. Indeed, installing and configuring this OS is simple... In addition, there are a large number of instructions and tips for using the system for beginners on the Web. According to official data, the Ubuntu distribution is used by more than 20 million users. There are 23 Ubuntu versions in total, Besides in April 2016 the next release is planned - Ubuntu 16.04 LTS... It should be noted that some of the versions are no longer supported by the developers.
Control panels are used for easier work with operating systems.
The main ubuntu distribution features :
- stability of work - the system is often used on highly loaded servers. The OS does not require frequent computer restarts, even in the event of updates, installation or removal of programs.
- a secure system that does not require antivirus software... To catch a virus, you need to try very hard if you are using an Ubuntu distribution.
- free OS - installation takes place in a few clicks, the network is full of versions for free download, you do not need to enter any keys, you can use it on multiple computers at the same time.
- nice and intuitive interface - a large number of free themes and effects, for every taste and color.
- fast and effortless installation - with the advent of new versions, installing Ubuntu becomes easier, which attracts inexperienced users. The main software and drivers are installed immediately and almost automatically, as a result, you get a ready-to-work OS. In addition, automatic updates are offered.
- and ideal for beginners - all settings and settings are made intuitively. Through a dedicated package managerSynaptic is installing the required software. It has functions for viewing ratings, descriptions and reviews of programs.
- stability is provided by a huge support team that quickly finds and fixes bugs.
- system predictability - each new release is released every 6 months, users always have access to the latest OS versions.
- gets along well on the same PC with other operating systems, for example, Windows.
- this version promises a long support period;
- support function for high-resolution displays - FullHD;
- the presence of two new architectures ARM64 and PowerPC64;
- support for TRIM commands for solid-state drives is present by default;
- optimized NVIDIA Optimus technology;
- linux 3.13 kernel with Deadline I / O scheduler;
- included in the Python 3.4 library set;
- with Oxide, you can launch an application directly from the desktop;
- libreOffice, Firefox, Thunderbird are qualitatively updated.
You can download the ISO image completely free of charge and legally on the official developer's website. In addition, the distribution of this OS by any means is also legal. During the installation of Ubuntu drivers, additional applications are automatically installed... For example, Firefox browser with Thunderbird mailer, Rhythmbox audio player and Totem video player, Transmission torrent client, full version of LibreOffice. These applications will be sufficient for initial operation.
Disadvantages of Ubuntu :
If you use specific software, its counterpart may not be available in Ubuntu and it will not be possible to completely abandon Windows. But don't forget about the emulatorWine, which allows you to run inUbuntu software from Windows. For fans of gambling, Ubuntu will seem not so high-quality compared to Windows, since the number of games for it is much less and their quality makes much to be desired, but even here the developers are our way out - an emulatorPlayOnLinux allows you to run on Ubuntu games that are developed for Windows. However, this OS, like everyone else, has its drawbacks, but only the user can decide whether they are significant for him or not.
Often our users ask what to choose Ubuntu or Debian. The answer to this question and the analysis of operating systems in. You may also be interested in the topic ““.
In conclusion, if you are in doubt whether you should choose Ubuntu for work, let us note the main advantages of the Ubuntu distribution, which attracts its users. First of all, this is a free system, which is still used for PCs, but may soon move to smartphones / tablets. Secondly, a huge number of applications and driversthat simplify the initial PC setup for the user. And finally, an important aspect - ubuntu security, that is, protection against viruses compared to Windows. By installing Ubuntu on your server, you will immediately get what you need - a working machine.
Company Hyper Host ™ offers for its users and with an installed OS Ubuntu 14.04thus, users will be able to take full advantage of all the advantages of the current version of the system.
Besides Ubuntuyou can use other OS to run on the server. Read about how to choose an operating system depending on your tasks.
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Ubuntu is a community-developed, Linux kernel-based operating system ideal for use on personal computers, laptops and servers. It contains all the necessary programs you need: an Internet browser, an office suite for working with texts, spreadsheets and presentations, programs for communicating on the Internet, and many others.
The Ubuntu promise
Ubuntu will always be distributed free of charge, including corporate editions and security updates.
Full commercial support is available for Ubuntu from Canonical Ltd. and hundreds of companies around the world.
Ubuntu includes some of the best translations and accessibility for people with disabilities available as open source software.
Ubuntu disks contain only free software; we encourage the use of free and open source software, its improvement and distribution.
