Making the switch from Windows to Ubuntu Linux

Linux is a fully functional, free operating system similar to Windows or Mac OS. It is based on the UNIX operating system and in many cases is set up and packaged specifically for desktop use. It is also a much more secure option for your desktop than the standard Windows installation, it has a much less permissive attitude towards running malicious scripts and allowing software to automatically load onto your system without your knowledge. It is also a highly customizable system, you can change virtually any aspect of the operating system from look and feel to security settings and almost anything else you may think of. It is definitely the best choice of operating system for those people who desire freedom to customize and strong security from hackers.

So you've decided that you want to ditch the Windows and switch to Ubuntu Linux. Excellent choice! Ubuntu Linux is a wonderful free and open source operating system superior in many ways to it's competitors.

Step One
The first step is going to be obtaining a copy of the latest release of Ubuntu Linux, this part is pretty easy.
There are two ways to do this, you can:

A) download a copy from http://www.ubuntulinux.org and burn theISO file to a CD, or

B) request a FREE copy of Ubuntu Linux from Ubuntu.com using their on-line store and LaunchPad service.

The first option is best if you have high-speed Internet and the knowledge on making a boot-able disk. The second is highly recommended if you have a slow Internet connection, also you will have to allow a few weeks for the disks to be delivered via mail.

Step 2
So, now you have your Ubuntu disk and have (hopefully) backed up any vitally important Windows files. Now you can restart your computer with the Ubuntu Linux disk in the CD drive.

You will be presented with several options, go with the first option and a live version of Ubuntu Linux will automatically load. This is a live CD, meaning that you can now play around and explore the features and options available with your brand new operating system without the dangers of writing anything to the hard drive. Now is a good time to look around and check out all of the bundled software that comes free with the distribution and see what programs you may need to find and install later for greater functionality.

OK, now that you've had a chance to explore, does it seem like something you'd like to have on your computer? If so, then go here. This is also a great resource for learning all about the world of Linux.