Ok, so im thinking of changing from Windows to Ubuntu?

Question

Ok, so im thinking of conerting to Ubuntu, im pretty tech-savvy, but have neer dealt with a multi-system platform, Anyway, a n00b question, can i change back and forth from Windows and Linux, and do i lose everything from Windows when i convert? Also, what Linux should i use, ill post needed specs. if needed

Answer 1

Overall a Linux based platform can perform most of the tasks equally as well as a proprietary platform using OSS. However Linux does have its limitations particularly in gaming. My advice is to set up a Dual Boot of Windows and Linux.



There are better distros. than Ubuntu available. I thoroughly recommend Linux Mint Debian Edition Its easy to use plus it comes with much of the software you are likely to need preinstalled



Linux Mint Debian Edition Download

http://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=88



How To Dual Boot Linux Mint Debian Edition and Windows 7

http://www.linuxbsdos.com/2011/04/23/how-to-dual-boot-linux-mint-debian-edition-and-windows-7/



You download the ISO. image of Linux Mint Debian Edition then you need to create a Bootable LiveDVD

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/BurningIsoHowto



Linux Mint Debian Edition can also be run straight from the LiveDVD without touching your Hard Drive





LUg.

Answer 2

You basically have 3 options for installing Ubuntu linux.

1. Wubi. This installs ubuntu linux so that it appears to be running on windows and can be removed with the window add remove utility. This is not the ideal way to install ubuntu and if windows becomes corrupted you will also lose ubuntu.



2. Install ubuntu in a virtual machine. You can install virtualbox in windows and then install ubuntu in virtualbox. You will have to dedicate some computer resources to the virtual computer (cpu cycles and ram). Since you will be reserving some computer resources for virtualbox you might notice a slow down in your computer depending on your computer specs. In order to run ubuntu you first boot into windows and then open virtualbox and start ubuntu. You do not have to reboot to switch back and forth.



3. Dual both both OSes. You format separate partitions for ubuntu and install ubuntu on the new partitions. When you boot the computer you select which OS to run and it has the full resources of the computer. You cannot press a button to switch back and forth but must reboot.



Each method has it pros and cons. Depending on your use for linux, your computer resources, and your backup methods which method you select will differ.

Since linux is different from windows it is important to read the linux documentation and understand how linux works. It is possible to overwrite you windows install if you make a mistake during the dual boot install.

You can take an on line tour of ubuntu to get a feel for it. Wehn you burn the ubuntu iso to a cd you can run ubuntu from the live cd (or live usb flash drive) to run it without installing it. It will run a little slowly because it is not using the hard drive. Be sure to read the "Show Me How" parts on the ubuntu website. Also check the Desktop Guide for which ever version of ubuntu you try.

Ubuntu is not the only linux distro or even the best, but it is a good place to start because it has very good instructions and has all the necessary drivers available, and is easy to get running. If you decide to stay with linux there are hundreds of other distros that you could try depending on your use for linux, knowledge, and desire to have more control and get into the fine details of customizing and reconfiguring it.

Linux cannot run windows programs natively but some windows programs can be run with more or less success under wine ( a windows sort of emulator). Linux does have its own programs that will accomplish the same tasks as windows programs (except games).

have fun

Answer 3

You will not regret trying out Ubuntu.



I have a dual boot system. I was scared to jump into linux but half the guys I work with use it everyday and were all telling me to try it. Now the only time I use windows AT ALL is to test web sites in Internet Explorer (I'm a web developer).

Even so, I also have a Virtual Box installed on my Ubuntu, so I can run windows from within Ubuntu to check IE, it's just slower. ( https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/Downloads )



It's not as simple as hitting a button to switch from Linux to windows, its just that you choose at every boot-up. You pick which you will use for that session.



To be honest, on some models there may be driver compatibility issues. But it's not that common these days. Just google your make and model specs and make sure Ubuntu will play nice with it. I have gateway laptop with just ubuntu - no issues. Custom desktop pc, no issues, hp 425 dual boot, no issues.



One thing I will tell you - PLEASE do not download and install Ubuntu 11.10 . Use 11.04 or 10.04 . This was explained to me later and I wish I knew. Nothing worked right for me with 11.10. The ...04 editions are called "LTS" for long term support versions, meaning you will be able to find drivers and help for them. Ok I'm done. Try it out, you'll like it.



I included a couple how to links to get you going on the switch.

Answer 4

U can have dual boots of the OSs.. Always preferably on different drives but if u don't have another u can shrink ur current volume and create another partition. For Linux u need about 10 to 15 for the core and the swap to fit comfortably. If use Ubuntu and fedora.. Personally I like fedora better but Ubuntu looks cooler, but then u can use skins so it's really about ur prefrences

Answer 5

Firstly, I think it is awesome that you're considering Ubuntu. I use it as my main OS. To answer your question, yes, you can switch back and forth. It's called 'dual-booting'. When you install Windows and Ubuntu side-by-side you do not have to lose anything.. the Ubuntu installer will set that up for you. You should probably use a 64 bit version if your copy of Windows is 64 bit.