In this article, we will considermain advantages of operating Ubuntu systems why it will be interesting and useful for beginners in administration, and what disadvantages does it have this system in the eyes of users. In particular, consider the version of Ubuntu 14.04, which is now quite popular. In particular, there are a large number of operating systems based on LINUX. Which are the most famous? More details in .

The Ubuntu distribution was created with the goal of being a convenient and understandable OS (based on Linux) for the average user. Indeed, Installing and configuring this OS is easy.. In addition, there are a large number of instructions and tips on using the system for beginners on the Web. According to official figures, more than 20 million users use the Ubuntu distribution. There are 23 versions of Ubuntu in total, Moreover in April 2016, the next release is planned - Ubuntu 16.04 LTS. It should be noted that some versions are no longer supported by developers.

For easier work with operating systems, control panels are used.

Main Ubuntu distribution features :

1. work stability - the system is often used on highly loaded servers. OS does not require frequent reboots computer, even in cases of updates, installation or removal of programs.
2. secure system that does not require antivirus. It takes a lot of effort to pick up a virus if you are using an Ubuntu distribution.
3. 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.
4. nice and clear interface a large number of free themes and effects, for every taste and color.
5. quick and effortless installation with the advent of new versions, the installation of Ubuntu is simplified what attracts not experienced users. The main software and drivers are installed immediately and almost automatically, as a result, you get a ready-to-use OS. In addition, automatic updates are offered.
6. and ideal option for beginners– all settings and settings are carried out at an intuitive level. Through a specialized package managerSynaptic is installing the necessary programs. It has features for viewing ratings, descriptions and reviews of programs.
7. stability is ensured by a huge support team that quickly finds and fixes bugs.
8. system predictability - each new release published every 6 months, users always have access to fresh versions OS.
9. coexists perfectly on the same PC with other operating systems, such as Windows.

• this version is promised a long period of support;
• support 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 along with Deadline I/O scheduler;
• included in the Python 3.4 library set;
• using Oxide, you can run the application directly from the desktop;
• qualitatively updated LibreOffice, Firefox, Thunderbird.

You can download the ISO image completely free of charge and legally on the website of the official developer. In addition, the distribution of this OS by any means is also legal. During the installation process, Ubuntu drivers are installed in automatic mode additional applications . For example, Firefox browser with Thunderbird mailer, Rhythmbox audio player and Totem video player, Transmission torrent client, complete libreoffice version. For the initial work of these applications will be quite enough.

Disadvantages of Ubuntu :

If you use specific software, it may not be available in Ubuntu and you will not be able to completely abandon the Windows OS. But do not forget about the emulatorWine, which allows you to run inUbuntu software from Windows. For game lovers, Ubuntu will not seem as high quality as compared to Windows, since the number of games for it is much smaller and their quality leaves much to be desired, but here, too, our developers have an option - an emulatorPlayOnLinux allows you to run on ubuntu games which are developed for Windows. However, this OS, like all others, has its drawbacks, but it is up to the user to 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 to choose Ubuntu for work, we note the main advantages Ubuntu distribution which attracts its users. First of all, it is a free system, which is currently used for PC, but may soon move to smartphones / tablets. Secondly, great amount applications and drivers, which simplify the initial PC setup for the user. And finally, an important aspect - ubuntu security, that is, virus protection compared to Windows. By installing Ubuntu on your server, you immediately get what you need - a working machine.

Company Hyper Host™ offers for its users and with installed OS Ubuntu 14.04 so users can take full advantage of all the benefits current version systems.

Except ubuntu you can use other operating systems to work on the server. Read about how to choose an operating system, depending on your tasks.

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Ubuntu is a community-based development based on the Linux kernel. operating system which is ideal for use on personal computers, laptops and servers. It contains everything necessary programs you need: Internet browser, office suite for working with texts, spreadsheets and presentations, programs for communicating on the Internet and many others.

Ubuntu Promise

Ubuntu will always be distributed free of charge, including enterprise editions and security updates.

Full commercial support is available for Ubuntu from Canonical Ltd. and hundreds of companies around the world.

Ubuntu includes the best translations and accessibility tools for people with disabilities, which only exist in the form of open source software.

Ubuntu discs contain only free software; we encourage the use of free and open source software, its improvement and distribution.

You've heard of Linux, but only recently realized that this free and open source operating system source code is something you can really 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's not hard to install, it has a lot of 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 get started.

I hear you and I'm here to help.

What is Linux?

If you are new to Linux, you can make a general assumption that it 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 interact with hardware (what you touch with your hands). Without a kernel, your system cannot run.

So when you say Linux, you are most often referring to any operating system based on the Linux kernel, such as Ubuntu or Fedora. As a kernel, Linux does nothing on its own. He needs someone to 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 that run on it, the kernel is actively maintained by the Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) community.

Open source software doesn't cost money, and anyone can look at the source code and change it as they see fit. This means experienced developers from all over the world contribute their work either for free or through sponsorship from companies such as Canonical or Red Hat. However, you can also improve the software.

In contrast, the 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 create your own Windows kernel, fix bugs, or redistribute an improved version of Windows that you've 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 is still 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 the license can be a double-edged sword. Without a clear revenue model, development can be inconsistent. Some programs receive regular investment while others have been dormant for years. Nevertheless, Linux has now spread to become the backbone of the internet and the most widely used operating system for supercomputers.

In the end though using linux very similar to Windows and macOS, there are aspects that you will need to learn for the first time. We will face many of them as we move forward.

Breathe life into an old PC

One of the common reasons why 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 this 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 turn on the system is what many system administrators not ready to accept. Because of such a harsh and demanding environment, Linux distributions have become the best of their kind. Although with software coming from many different sources, it's not the case that every program will make the best use of system resources.

Linux is customizable: Linux allows users to customize every aspect of the computer's functionality. Some distributions recommend choosing different components and building your own system. Most of them fully provide the work, but allow you to change or change parts as you wish. Many distributions encourage you to make your own tweaks, while tweaking others (such as the elementary 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. Everything you need to spend to revive old computer with Linux, it's time.

Linux is modular and specialized: You can customize a computer that is specifically designed to suit your needs: remote video control, a database of recipes, a control panel for an amazing laser projector that changes intensity by synchronizing with the rhythm of the music. You can build whatever you want. A testament to the quality of Linux modular design is the Red Hat Linux variant that was used to control the electromagnets inside the Large Hadron Collider. You'll be surprised how many things your old computer can still do.

Beginning of work

Whether you install Linux yourself or buy the computer that comes with it, you will need to make a few decisions before doing so. You need to know a few conditions that you have not encountered before. Let's figure it out.

Distribution selection

Recall that a distribution is a Linux operating system that comes with all the software you need to give you the full picture. The kernel is provided along with hardware drivers and applications.

Distributions come in all shapes and sizes. Some of them are aimed at beginners, 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 customized to serve a specific niche. Thus, you can install an operating system designed for creating multimedia, 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 stuff may not work. In most cases, even if your device is not supported by default, you can follow online tutorials to help you install an unsupported driver or fix the kernel, but this is not 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. Please note that it is difficult to estimate how many people are using Linux. The Distrowatch databases are ranked by the popularity of each distribution's website. This gives an idea of ​​what people are interested in, but it's hardly an idea of ​​what distributions are most widely used. Ubuntu, for example, is not currently ranked #1, but it is considered the most widely known version of desktop Linux.

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 the desktop environment can help you make a decision. Each of them provides various solutions, 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 an overview 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 among openSUSE users.

KDE Plasma is perhaps the most customizable interface that can be used on desktop computer. For this reason, it is an excellent choice for advanced 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 bottom left corner, system indicators are in the bottom right corner, and open windows are shown in between.

If you don't want to re-learn how to use a computer, switching from Cinnamon can save you a headache. This is the default desktop environment in Linux Mint.

While Linux is a great way 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 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 probably don't use your old computer anymore, you should open it and find documents, videos, photos, music that you haven't created yet. backups. Be careful and double check because you can erase everything from 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 HDD to the USB port.

For Windows users:

1. Double-clicking on the "My Computer" icon on the desktop or in the Start menu opens a window containing a list of files external hard disk.
2. Find and copy the necessary files by selecting them and pressing Ctrl + C, activating the external hard drive file list. Click inside the window 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 has 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 about your computer's hardware will be important later if there are compatibility issues. It's important that you write them down now, because if something breaks during the installation process or the first boot, you'll 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 basically compatible. Bluetooth chips, card readers and printers are more difficult, 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 small program included with Windows 2000, Me, XP and more later versions. This program gives you a complete picture of all the technology present in your system. You can find it by opening the start menu and typing msinfo32 into the search box. In older Windows versions you may have to click the "run" button in the start menu and type msinfo32 there.

Installing Linux

Great, you have 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:

1. Replace existing OS with Linux
2. Install Linux alongside an existing OS
3. Running Linux from a USB Drive

Below are detailed instructions on installing Ubuntu to an existing Windows or macOS model. By choosing from the three options above, the replacement operating system will run smoothly and quickly on your computer.

Installing Linux without removing the existing operating system is called dual booting. Whenever you start your computer, you will be able to select the operating system you want to use. This stops you from getting rid of your old OS, but there is always the option to remove it.

Storing a copy of Linux on a USB flash drive allows you to download a copy of Linux to a friend's computer, lab, or library. This method requires the least commitment from you and your computer, since you do not touch your copies of Windows or macOS.

Using the Linux desktop

As you know, on this moment, there is no one specific Linux desktop. But if you, like many, if not most, are new Linux user- probably starting with Ubuntu. In this case, when you first log into the new operating system, you will see a screen that looks like this.

This is a worker ubuntu table. 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.

Search for additional software

There comes a time when you need more apps. Where do you get them? You can get used to going to a big store and buying a program that you either install from a disc or download from the internet. You can probably get all your apps by going to individual websites and downloading the installers. You can even get all your software from app stores that sell content to you, just like on a phone or tablet.

Programs for Windows only on Windows. 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 free programs. Their use is similar App use 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, traditional and more complicated ways 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 way to get Linux software, there are times when this is the only option. For example, how do you set 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. It's more likely that you'll find packaged files instead, such as DEB, RPM, SH, or one of the many other formats for Linux.

Now that you know how to install apps, which one will you choose? Alternatively, check out our list the best programs for Linux.

Installing the update

Updates are a free part of Linux. They keep your system running latest version software. You can also get upgrades user interface and fixes for programs that run in the background.
You can usually install updates through your distribution's app store, the same place you go to download new software. Often he will have his own section, as is the case with Ubuntu.

Download multimedia codec

Perhaps you have 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 your desktop. This is usually not the case when you install Linux yourself.

This is not a bug or flaw in the Linux desktop - it's a legal issue. Many codecs remain under copyright, and computer manufacturers must pay licensing fees in order to legally distribute them.

Laws vary by 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 that you can download in case you want the exact license to play these files.

Search for 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 have graphical problems or you cannot view WiFi networks, You may need to install a proprietary driver. This is software that Linux distributions do not allow you to pre-install, so you must do it yourself. How you do this may vary depending on which distribution you are using. If you have chosen 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 if they can run a particular program. When we used only 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 on another, developers must build a separate version. The Windows version of Steam does not work on macOS, and vice versa. Linux also needs its version.

Since not many people run Linux on their desktops like Windows or macOS, developers often choose not to make a Linux version of software. 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.

emulations

You may have heard of emulators, the 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 that the games were designed for. The same can be done with programs designed for personal computers.

The most famous way to emulate Windows software on Linux is with Wine. Although it doesn't always work, at best windows application will work alongside your regular Linux software without any extra fuss.

Because setting up Wine can be tricky, 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 paid application, which 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 the entire operating system inside the current one. So when you need to run certain program for Windows, you can run your virtual a copy of Windows and open the program.

Unlike emulation, virtual machines guaranteed to work. The downside is that you have to boot up a separate operating system in your own window, which can be time consuming and inconvenient. You must also have a copy of Windows or macOS to run. Getting one of the options can be difficult or expensive depending on your conditions.

All is ready!

At this stage, you have installed Linux, studied 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 distribution at any time or change your current interface to any other. And you don't have to open command line to use Linux, since you can do a lot more if you're curious enough to try.

Very often, beginners confuse Linux and Ubuntu, considering the second to be 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 notorious Debian.

What is Ubuntu

Ubuntu is a Linux distribution based on another Linux distribution, Debian, and distributed under the free GNU/GPL license. In general, I think it is clear to everyone that the distribution is freely distributed, and any user can simply download it for personal use. Ubuntu is developed by Canonical and comes in two versions: LTS (Long Term Developer Support distributions) and simple versions supported for less than a year. By the way, a new LTS release is expected very soon: Ubuntu 18.04 LTS.

Previously, Ubuntu distributions shipped with Unity as the default desktop. Now, starting with Ubuntu 17.10, Ubuntu will ship with Gnome.

Do not forget about the huge popularity of this distribution. Highly for a long time he was the first in the world ranking of Linux distributions, which was compiled, just the same, for reasons of popularity of a particular product. More than 20 million users prefer Ubuntu. The operating system is used both on home PCs and on servers of huge companies.

History of Ubuntu

This wonderful distribution began its history in 2004 as a temporary offshoot of 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 provided for by the main version (Debian). Less and less compatibility, and more and more independent experience. The developers were forced to make fateful decisions, which in the end led them to success.

Ubuntu becomes a Linux distribution in its own right, and begins to promote its own philosophy, which was to create a convenient and functional operating system for everyone.

Many things that are not available to ordinary people have become much easier to use thanks to Ubuntu. Some applications received a GUI, some were simply lightened or stuffed with useful functionality.

Now Ubuntu is not just an operating system, or the brainchild of a big 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 have been simplified
• Peculiar GUI that takes getting used to
• High hardware compatibility
• And much more

Where to download Ubuntu

You can download Ubuntu distribution images on the official Canonical resource or on our website /download-ubuntu/