So there are a few scenarios to consider here. You just bought a new computer with the latest and greatest OS creation to come out of Redmond, WA. You just bought a used desktop or laptop and need to start with a clean slate. Finally, you have decided to build your own master workstation.
It is time to consider the cost beyond the base price of the computer, beyond what is needed to make it start up. You will need an office suite at bare minimum. The SRP for MS Office 2007 ultimate is $679.95 (store.microsoft.com). That is just the beginning. You may not need anything more, but you will WANT more, guaranteed.
It is time for you to reconsider your technical agenda. Ubuntu 9.04 is a FREE linux based OS available on Ubuntu's Site. If you already have an OS installed, you can download it and burn a bootable CD for installation of this. If not, and you need to get up and running, it is suggested to go to a local bookstore where you can buy many a book with the newest OS CD included.
Ubuntu's site (www.ubuntu.com) states "The latest release of Ubuntu brings the best open source technologies together on one platform, with the benefit of free updates for 18 months. Constant improvements, feature additions and extended machine and network support explain why Ubuntu wins more converts with every release......"
The install was a breeze, and took less than 30 minutes from "insert cd", to surfing the web and emailing. The beauty of it is multi-faceted. First, it has the familiar looks of any OS you are using, whether mac or pc, so you can use your same mouse and keyboard and most other input devices. Now, for the coup de gras, the OS is free and comes preloaded with a plethora of, pretty much all the software you will need to perform most tasks that normally you would have to have purchased software for. Again, all the software is free due to its being built on Open Source architecture. This software includes email, office suites, communication (IM software), etc. Sure, you can expand on what it has by downloading much more. No matter what you download, it is still the same price $0.00. And speaking of free, the Book on how to use Ubuntu is free as well. Click HERE to get it.
People hear Linux and shudder. Well there is no reason to. It is easy an help is right in front of you on the Ubuntu site. And for those that are just a little scared of loosing their beloved windows desktop and pricey software, don't worry, during the install of Ubuntu (and many other Linux flavors) you can select a side by side install aka dual boot feature which will allow you to select which OS to use.
The power of open source software was recently blown wide open through a book from former Microsoft Engineer Keith Curtis, called "After the Software Wars", which also spawned many "Just say no to Microsoft" articles.
To quote a recent reader:
I have a previous version of Ubuntu and love it. What is not said, it looks allot like windows, gets free program updates complied to itself, from safe sources, has fewer glitches, compared to MS Windows, and has many LEGAL programs and workarounds, unlike the other OS systems. Running Win XP and 8.04 Side by side, on separate PC's, Ubuntu winds, hands down. XP often fails, for the same exact tasks
Comments
I saw your link on the Ubuntu Forums in Facebook, Great review! as Ubuntu user since early 2007 I want to give two tips from the current Windows users who might want to try it. First, and although it sounds obvious, Unbuntu is not Windows. I say this because often I hear people who try Ubuntu, to complain later saying things like "In windows I could do this or that in this or that way..." or "Why can I do this in this way in Windows but not in Ubuntu" and such. Although Ubuntu graphically is very similar to windows, they are two very different Operative systems, so just take your time to browse around and learn how to use it. Its not difficult, Ubuntu has all the necessary tools like Openoffice for any of your needs. Second, install Ubuntu but keep your Windows still. Its what is called "dual boot" , youll feel comfortable to still use Windows anytime you want, while you learn more from the fantastic universe of UBUNTU.
"You will need an office suite at bare minimum. The SRP for MS Office 2007 ultimate is $679.95 (store.microsoft.com). That is just the beginning."
You know, Openoffice does run in Windows.
Just got an HP Mini with XP. Windows was a little slow and needed virus protection. Luckily Ubuntu also makes Ubuntu Remix for Netbooks. Now my netbook runs more like what I would expect. Camera & wireless work out of the box. A little different to install because the netbook doesn't have a cd drive but it runs like a champ. I comes with office software, spreadsheet, word processor, presentation, etc. I'm impressed.
I have a previous version of Ubuntu and love it. What is not said, it looks allot like windows, gets free program updates complied to itself, from safe sources, has fewer glitches, compared to MS Windows, and has many LEGAL programs and workarounds, unlike the other OS systems. Running Win XP and 8.04 Side by side, on separate PC's, Ubuntu winds, hands down. XP often fails, for the same exact tasks.
If you know you need all the programs in Office 2007 Ultimate, there must be a reason. Are there equivalents of InfoPath on Linux? Also, most users can acquire Office 2007 Home and Student for $89 which includes the most used programs in Office anyway: Word and Excel. Need additional software for Windows, just download the free Windows Live Essentials which features very easy to use, well designed programs for email, photo editing, blogging, IM, integration with services such as SkyDrive and Office Live.
I ran Windows XP from 2003 up until Vista's release in 2006 and I have yet to experience a blue screen or stability issue. So a lot of what previous commenter's just said is not true.
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