For the rest of y’all: a nice thing abvout Ubuntu, Mepis (my last install) and some of the other Linux releases is that you can try it out on top of your current operating system (OS) by running it exclusively off a live CD-ROM. Looking back, the Ubuntu live CD was so slow and the features we so few that it was more of a “show book” than a proper representation of the OS.

The project is supported by a very deep pocket in the UK, which is why one can order free of charge as many CD kits as one likes. The Intel x386 set (a live and a install disk set) is what most current Windows users would get. I got several and have been passing them out. Or you can burn your own dish. Links from their website.

Important note: I’m actually running the second newest version, a version having just come out last month. Most Linux distros (distributions) come out in rapid fire, and this one is prone to having cute names. The new distro is Hoary Hedgehog and the one I use is Warty Warthog. In case you start seeing reference to hoary and warty.

I’m a complete newbie to Linux, but Ubuntu has almost convinced me to switch. I think I’ll wait and find out if there’s any big hurdles I should be aware of first. :-)

“Does your software reflect your ethics and community standards (cooperation v. monopoly)?”

That’s the one that does if for me. All this time, I feel like a guy complaining about unfair trade whilst sipping Coffee at Starbucks!