Why Ubuntu? Im a newb?

Question

i will be a beginner in Ubuntu, and i want to know if it is conpletely different then windows, or in some ways the same, is it fast? Is it secure? Does it crash often?

Answer 1

First of all, welcome to the world of linux. I'm using Fedora 10 as we speak. Linux is completely different than Windows, but Ubuntu's learning curve isn't that bad. Just install it and mess around with it, you won't cause any permanent damage.



Linux is much faster than Windows. It's also much more secure. Finally, linux doesn't crash. No blue screens, no hanging, it won't crash with casual use like Windows.

Answer 2

The actual use of programs inside Ubuntu is not all that different then windows. navigation through folders is even rather similar...the major difference is in adding and removing software. Unlike windows, Ubuntu has its own source for software that is specific for it and to download and install the software you would do so by using a package manager, the best one as far as I feel is Synaptic. There are other ways to download and install software that is not supported by the Ubuntu community but it is much more indepth and not advisable to beginners. For the most part, Ubuntu is quite well set up right from the start with little need for adding software from outside the supported channels. As far as the security aspect it is much more secure than windows and far less susceptible to virus and malware. It truly is refreshing to use as an alternative to the proprietary nature of Windows. For every program Windows has that is a necessity Ubuntu has one that is every bit as good, or possibly better. The learning curve for Linux is a bit steeper, but is worth the effort and once you learn one version the others are quite close and you would be able to do equally well with them...and there are MANY distributions of Linux. Speed wise not a big difference except for the fact that you aren't relying on third-party anti-virus software running in the background taking up ram. So far I have had zero problems with any crashes.

Answer 3

Ubuntu is a Gnome Graphical Desktop environment. If you are seeking one similar to Windows, you want to get Kubuntu. A lot of people don't like Gnome and not aware of the other one.



It is as secure as possible, and it really doesn't crash very often. In fact you can turn the power off, then turn it back on and your right back in Linux. It doesn't throw fits like Windows does. I'm normally in and out of web pages in about three seconds. Not always though. Internet traffic can be overbearing at times.

Answer 4

Linux is Linux and not Windows, so yes it is different but not not difficult to use. It is fast and mega stable. Apart from Ubuntu 8.10 which is utterly dreadful.



If you already have Windows I recommend installing Ubuntu 8.04.2 using the Wubi installer if you want to avoid partitioning.There is no need to burn a CD. Just run the installer, enter a password for the new account, and click "Install".

You keep Windows as it is, Wubi only adds an extra option to boot into Ubuntu. Wubi does not require you to modify the partitions of your PC, or to use a different bootloader, and does not install special drivers. It works just like any other application.

Wubi keeps most of the files in one folder, and if you do not like it, you can simply uninstall it as any other application.



Ubuntu 8.04.2 installer

http://wubi-installer.org/devel/minefield/



Select Wubi-8.04.1-rev506.exe



As I say I DO NOT recommend the latest release Ubuntu 8.10 as it is utterly dreadful.



Alternatively take a look at Linux Mint 5 http://www.linuxmint.com/rel_elyssa.php



You can run this without touching your Hard Drive by creating a LiveCD from the downloaded iso. using Nero Burning ROM or similar software.



LUg.

Answer 5

For VLC, seem interior the Synaptic supervisor. For rar data, why? Linux would not use a abode windows software, and WinRAR is a abode windows software (the "Win" area of the call form of provides that away).

Answer 6

Linux is VERY different from Windows. You should learn what the terminal is and get used to typing in commands.



Good luck...I think you're gonna need it.

Answer 7

It is very fast.