iUbuntu - My experiments with Ubuntu

In what could be a major first step in me drifting away from Windows, I got Ubuntu up and running on my secondary laptop. About two years ago, I started using Novell's Suse linux but had to discontinue it due to Dell/Suse compatibility issues and the fact that most of the software I needed at school was pro-windows.

Honestly, installing Suse on Dell was a pain. The drivers weren't readily available and I had to get my hands dirty. And I remember trying out Ubuntu. It gave up on me - my screen went blank and it was tough to figure out what drivers were missing and how to fix it. That was 2-3 years back. I somehow hate the concept of dual boot, don't know why. Though I had it occasionally in the past, I was not keen on having it this time round. So, had Ubuntu installed on an independent machine. I got a used Toshiba U205-S5034 from craigslist. It was a steal for $200. It had Windows XP Media Center with Office 2007 installed on it and the first thing I did was download Ubuntu 9.04 Desktop. Burning the downloaded image couldn't be easier. Got the instructions from Ubuntu's website. And then, did a clean install. The installation process took 15 minutes. That is it. Total time to get Ubuntu up and running was 85 min (download) + 10 min (burning) + 15 min (installing).

I also liked the option of first running Ubuntu from the CD to check for compatibility issues and then proceed with the installation. One thing that I instantly noticed with this version of linux compared to my previous experiences is that the operating system itself has become very user friendly. It gives users the flexibility to either run commands/apps from kernel or through menus. I just started playing with it. Connecting to the internet was as easy as it can be. Just the WEP key and I am hooked. I remember having to struggle to connect to the internet in Suse. But that was three years ago and lot should have definitely changed since then.

I am eager to see what Ubuntu has in store for me. Next steps would be to have Ubuntu on my other laptops too. As of now, I don't see a reason why I shouldn't. I just tried out the default messenger - Pidgin. Need to find a workaround for iTunes. At the outset, the major pros I see using Linux over Windows are
- a different look and feel from the age-old MS Windows
- no annoying 'Live Updates', esp for someone migrating from Windows Vista
- more secure
- lot to navigate and learn
- comes with all basic features, connectivity and open office
Only cons I can think of are the compatibility issues of some apps/software and devices, most predominantly the iPhone. I should be fine though.

Go Ubuntu!