Ubuntu - A Popular Choice Of OS
Ubuntu is the most popular Linux operating system today. While the system is free, Canonical Ltd., supports and funds Ubuntu with millions of dollars every year. This helps to bring about innovative features and keep the project together. A number of forums and websites support Ubuntu, leaving users with a wide choice when it comes to support. Beginners looking for a switchover to Linux ought to consider Ubuntu as their choice of operating system.
The system is based off Debian, one of the most popular Linux versions. Ubuntu is easy to install as well as has the requisite tools to install other software. In addition, Ubuntu is available in different versions for different interfaces, giving users a wide choice as well as making the transition from other distributions easier.
For the most part, Ubuntu is a well written and secure platform without any malicious Trojans and viruses. Surely something to keep in mind as it saves you valuable cash you'd else spend on computer hardware repair services. By design, Linux is hard to hack, with a number of passwords to prevent hackers from getting control of a computer. Each software that is installed on Ubuntu requires you to enter a password, which is good for your PC's security. The operating system automatically installs a firewall that functions all the time, unlike Windows where you need to look for and install a firewall. Since its introduction, every version of Ubuntu has better features but remains easy to use. The desktop graphics are stunning, while a number of free open source software are included with the operating system.
While Windows appears to be fast in the beginning, the system slows down in a few months. However, Ubuntu Linux remains as fast as ever. On most Windows systems, malware and adware install themselves, eating much of the CPU cycles, which is something you won't experience on a computer with Ubuntu.
In terms of support, Ubuntu remains unmatched with a number of Linux users eager to solve the problem for free. All you need to do is post your query to a support forum and an answer will be on its way in no time. You don't have to worry about updates either. The Update Manager takes care of regular updates since improvements are made to the Ubuntu OS on a regular basis, unlike Windows, where improvements are made every few years.
Speaking of improvements, Ubuntu is maintained and upgraded by willing volunteers, which is why you receive regular updates without having to wait for a new release, even though new versions are released every six months in April and October, the latest being Ubuntu 10.10. Due to regular updates, you don't need to download and reinstall new versions when they are released.
Ubuntu is undoubtedly an operating system for the masses where users can enjoy their computing needs for free. There is no yearly license either, which makes it an ideal choice for businesses. Included is a full office suite courtesy OpenOffice, which has all the applications that MS Office has, and once again without any license fee. The art of continuous improvement works well for Ubuntu.
