Tips On Installing Ubuntu 11.04

Here's a quick check list-

BACK UP FIRST ANYTHING IMPORTANT IN XP OR WINDOWS 7

MOST NEW COMPUTERS ALLOW YOU TO CREATE YOUR OWN RECOVERY DISKS--DO THIS FIRST

1. Your computer should have at least 1 GB ram and at least 128mb graphics card, at least that's what worked for me. If your computer is too old or slower, Ubuntu will default to the Gnome desktop instead of Unity. This is NOT broken, it's normal!

2. Download Ubuntu 11.04, 32 bit recommended.

3. Verify download file is not corrupted.

4. Burn the ISO to your blank disk. I suggest a slower burn speed to avoid errors.

5. Reboot to read CD drive, options could be ESC, F10, F8, etc. If unsure, check the manufacturer website for instructions.

6. Follow the install prompts, make sure you are plugged in and connected to the internet to download updates.

7. Remove CD, reboot and highlight Ubuntu in boot process.

8. If Unity doesn't work, install all the updates then reboot again.

More info on Unity here

http://www.ubuntugeek.com/install-ubuntu-unity-2d-using-ppa-in-ubuntu-11-0410-10.html

Introduction To Ubuntu Linux

You may have thought, "what the hell is Ubuntu?" Ubuntu is a computer operating system based on Debian which is based on Linux. I won't go into details here on Debian or Linux but to say that Ubuntu is not Windows and vice-versa but a Ubuntu based computer can perform many Windows based computer functions. A Ubuntu based computer like Zorin even looks like Windows 7 to make you more comfortable!

If you want to write letters, email or shop on the web than Ubuntu can work for you. Ubuntu is free although like any Linux based operating system you can donate your time or money. Other fine free systems are Linux Mint and Zorin OS. You can install Ubuntu to replace what you have or install alongside Windows and choose at startup which one to use. It's not hard but there is a learning curve based on your patience.

You can download Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Zorin OS from their respective websites. You can even try them without installing from the Live CD. Ubuntu Unity is the latest version which is 11.04. Websites like TOTAL OS TODAY can help you get started.

TOS Tip - Safely Install Ubuntu Inside Windows

Use the Wubi or Mint4Win install option to safely install Ubuntu or Linux Mint inside Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7.