Ubuntu - The Maverick Meerkat
Ubuntu is open source and not only techies and programmers love it. The operating system offers plenty of tools and network features combined with an interface that is easy to work with. Even devices such as printers are easy to install. If you are used to working with Windows, you won't find it difficult to get comfortable with Ubuntu. In addition, the systems are pretty similar.
Ubuntu even includes an office suite, OpenOffice which is free and open source. Although it may not have all the advanced features of MS Office, it does have more than what you would expect.
Setting up a developers environment with programming languages like Python, PHP, and Java is also fast and easy. Therefore, much of future technology lies with operating systems like Ubuntu. Moreover, there is no costly licensing fee, which is why many corporations are slowly turning to Ubuntu too.
Ubuntu's user-friendly desktop includes a variety of functions similar to Windows. Dell and System76 also offer a range of Ubuntu desktops that can be customized. In addition, the Ubuntu Server Client is compatible with a range of Dell, HP, and IBM servers. In addition, the OS offers cloud computing options from its Enterprise Cloud platform to help enterprises switch existing platforms to cloud.
Businesses that are apprehensive about 'free' products have no reason to worry since Ubuntu has a number of services created by Canonical Ltd., its sponsor that brings value added services for users. Corporations can opt for training courses and gain the acquired skills from experts themselves.
Ubuntu performs well with Netbooks too. A special netbook remix version can be downloaded free from the Ubuntu website and loaded onto a pen drive of 1 GB. The version includes an easy to use interface which has been optimized for the small screen on netbooks. Along with the packs is Firefox, Evolution (an email client), Multimedia players (Rhythmbox), and Pidgin, and instant messaging software. Also included is F-Spot, an image management software, and Liferea, an RSS reader,
Although most of these applications will suffice, Ubuntu Linux has a repository of thousands of applications which are available for download. Software can be installed, managed, and uninstalled with the package management software bundled in the OS. For netbooks, Ubuntu is a faster and cheaper alternative, which is definitely worth it in the long run.
Ubuntu 10.10 aka the Maverick Meerkat has arrived with the developers adding many new features. The good thing about the OS is that with regular updates you don't have to reinstall versions. The new version is upgraded for desktops, servers, and netbooks, servers. It includes sophisticated visual effects for the desktop as well as a new slick audio menu that displays control playback. There are also upgrades to the server version, with added features for cloud computing. The desktop and netbook versions support basic multi-touch capabilities. It also features kernel upgrades and multiple configuration options during boot time. With so many advanced features available at no cost, Ubuntu is definitely geared to become the operating system of the future.
