What is Ubuntu?
It is one of the Linux distributions, and Linux is an open source system that some people rely on as the kernel of the operating system and have modified it in order to create other operating systems called Linux distributions, and Ubuntu is one of these distributions and one of the most renowned.
So, Ubuntu Desktop is a Linux distribution developed by Canonical and is one of the most popular due to its ease of use. Ubuntu is also one of the best choices for people who are new to Linux.
Ubuntu is a Linux-developed, home-like, UNIX-like operating system created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. Linux distributions are usually free, open source, and many are great alternatives to popular operating systems such as Windows and Mac.
Why do people use Ubuntu?
Whether you want to know why people prefer to use Ubuntu, you should take a look at all the possible reasons why Ubuntu is of interest to many.
Ubuntu is free to use
Ubuntu is a free and ad-free operating system, unlike Windows which surprises you with advertisements that appear in the form of a popup that appears at the bottom right of the screen. So provided you recently bought a new PC that you intend to use for basic tasks, you can try out Ubuntu, instead of buying a Windows license.
Ease of use
What stands out most about Ubuntu is that it is an operating system that was created to get the beginners on the Linux train, and while it looks a lot different from Windows and Mac, it has a very good learning path. Ubuntu uses one of the most popular DEs in the Linux world, where you and your PC can interact in a visually appealing way, and anyone with basic computer hardware knowledge can easily install this operating system, and set up the entire PC system.
Moreover, Canonical has improved the user interface of the open source operating system Ubuntu, making it as easy to use as Windows and Mac.
Privacy and Security
You don’t have to use an antivirus when relying on Ubuntu, you’ve probably heard people say that Linux is more secure than other operating systems, due to its open source nature, and the low numbers of viruses targeting Linux. When we say that an operating system, or software is open source, the source code is open for anyone to add code, or make changes, that’s why thousands of people, developers work together to fix problems and security holes, so it’s less vulnerable to viruses.
Software and applications
Ubuntu has most of the popular applications available on Windows and Mac operating systems. The Ubuntu operating system comes with its own store called Ubuntu Software that allows you to search for applications, and install them in just a few clicks. Even whether you don’t find your favorite apps, you may find good alternatives.
Works on a range of devices
The Ubuntu operating system can be installed on numerous devices, including Windows or Mac computers, and it runs on network servers, IoT devices, as well as in simulated or virtual computer environments.
Can Ubuntu be used with Windows?
Whether you want to try Ubuntu but don’t know how and where to begin?, you should know that there are numerous ways to try the Ubuntu operating system. You can install it on Windows and uninstall it from the Control Panel whether you don’t like it. Ubuntu can be booted from a USB drive or a CD drive as well, and use it without installation. Or install it within Windows without partitioning the hard disk, run it in a window on the Windows desktop, or install it with Windows on your computer.
Ways to try and install Ubuntu on your computer
There are several ways to help you try Ubuntu, or install it on your PC, and among these methods are
Use a USB drive or CD
One of the easiest ways to use Ubuntu is to create a USB drive or CD drive. After you put Ubuntu on the drive, you can plug the USB or insert the CD or DVD into any computer you come across, then restart the computer. The computer will boot from the removable media you connected, and you will be able to use Ubuntu without making any changes to your computer’s hard drive.
Install Ubuntu on Windows using Wubi
Earlier, installing Linux on the tough drive was tedious for new users, as they had to resize existing partitions to make space for the new Linux operating system. Whether you decide that you don’t want to use Linux later on, you’ll have to delete the new partitions, and resize the old partitions to reclaim space. But now you can try Ubuntu there is a better way, you can install it on Windows using wubi.
Wubi works like any other application installer and installs Ubuntu to a file on your Windows partition. When your computer restarts, you will have the option to boot into the Ubuntu operating system, or Windows. When you boot into Ubuntu it will work as if it was installed usually on your hard drive. Best of all, if you decide not to continue using Ubuntu, you can uninstall it from the Windows Control Panel.
Run Ubuntu on a virtual machine
Like other operating systems , you can run Ubuntu in a virtual machine on your computer. The virtual machine launches Ubuntu in a window on the Windows desktop, or Mac. You will be able to try Linux without restarting the computer, but you should know that virtual machines are less fast than running the operating system on the computer itself.
To create a virtual machine for Ubuntu, download and install VirtualBox, create a new virtual machine, select the Ubuntu operating system, and provide the ISO file you downloaded from the Ubuntu website when prompted. Proceed with the installation process in the virtual machine as whether you were installing Ubuntu on a real computer.
Dual OS for Ubuntu
Whether you want to use Linux but still want to leave Windows installed on your computer, it can be installed in dual boot configuration mode. Simply place the Ubuntu installation file on a USB drive, CD, or DVD using the same method above. Once this is done, restart your computer and select the option to install Ubuntu instead of the option to try Ubuntu.
