Friday, 13 August 2010

6 Things All Prospective Ubuntu Linux Users Must Know

Ubuntu Linux is the world's most popular and fastest growing Linux alternative to Windows. More people are seeking better, reliable and cost effective ways to keep in touch both at school, home and the office across all popular device platforms. That is where Ubuntu Linux comes into the picture. If you have heard about Ubuntu but are still doubting whether to migrate to it or not, then the following six basic points should help you decide.
Desktop
Ubuntu is a perfect desktop OS that has all the functions that you may be used to in Windows. It is powerful enough for home or office use and has all the productivity suite you may need in your enterprise setting as well. More and more OEMs are now beginning to offer a range of Ubuntu desktops. Notable among the OEMs is Dell, ZaReason and System76. It is also very customizable and free to use without any licensing hassles. It is also safe and reliable in terms of security and other threats that Windows is easily susceptible to.
Virtualization and servers
Ubuntu is also a perfect server client that has been certified to run on HP's Proliant Server ranges and on roughly 45 other server configurations from IBM, Lenovo, Dell among others. ISVs like Alresco and Openbravo also have enterprise class products built on Ubuntu server edition. There is also the Canonical-IBM Virtual Bridges partnerships that aims at virtualizing Ubuntu desktops on Linux servers. Indeed there is no shortage of Ubuntu server deployment options.
Cloud
Cloud computing is a new and evolving technology area that can transform how IT environments deliver services. Ubuntu has an Enterprise Cloud service which aims at helping corporate entities migrate their existing IT services into the cloud.
Mobile
There is a flavor of Ubuntu for Mobile Internet Devices. Dell, ZaReason and System76 all sell netbooks preloaded with UNR. HP also has a customized version of UNR for its Mini1000 netbook edition.
Training
There is training for Ubuntu by Canonical available for both individuals and corporate users. You get the requisite skills from the maker of the OS.
Support
There is a vast array of support available, be it for home or enterprise users. Notable amongst them is the Ubuntu Forums and the new commercial service from Canonical. You will never be alone in your usage of Ubuntu knowing there is always some form of support available to you.
The author is the owner of Ghabuntu, a popular Open Source blog from Africa. Please stop by to join the effort in making Open Source Software the preferred choice of computer users. You can also reach me here at sinaisix@gmail.com.

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