African Penguins Turn Me On
I took up computers as a hobby soon after I saw my Brother’s Apple II. I enjoy the whole field of computing. That being said, I can’t remember being excited about a personal discovery in computing since I used my dial-up modem to connect to my first bulletin board. Until now.
I started looking at Ubuntu a few weeks back. The more I explore, the more excited I become. For those still in the dark, Ubuntu is a Linux-based operating system. I’ll guarantee that the box I’m building right now will be Ubuntu-based. And once I become more proficient in linux-speak, I’m convinced that I’ll be switching over the LAN that I administer at work. Think of it…. No more Monopolysoft.
My excitement really took off when I downloaded and burned the desktop ISO of Ubuntu. (I ordered the CD, but couldn’t wait.) A great feature is the ability to test-drive Ubuntu from the CD without installing anything on your computer. I’m using a slightly modified Socket 478 Gateway, and the OS booted up without a hitch. But wait…there’s more!
I also purchased a book on Ubuntu There’s likely many good books on the subject, but for neophyte penguins with a moderate amount of computer experience, I recommend Ubuntu Hacks: Tips & Tools for Exploring, Using, and Tuning Linux by Oxer, Rankin and Childers.
While thumbing through the book, I found out that, not only can you test-drive Ubuntu from the CD, but by using a thumb drive, you can work with Ubuntu as a fully-installed OS. Ubuntu can be tweaked, packages installed, and work files saved. You don’t just get to test drive the car, you get to take it home and use it for as long as you want before you buy it.
I haven’t gone this far yet, but I plan on setting up a thumb drive so that I can demonstrate the power of Ubuntu to others, and examine the parameters of swapping OSes at work. The big question is whether I can convince accounting to switch from Quickbooks. (Note: CrossOver Office continues to improve compatibility.)
Quickbooks aside, Ubuntu and the Open Source community in general offers up a huge selection of applications equal to or better than what can be found in/for Windows. There’s a seemingly limitless amount of support out there, all served up with a Mona Lisa-like smile and the patience of a Zen master.
Personally, I’ve come to view Ubuntu not only as a serious alternative to Windows, but as a superior one. And I’m excited.
What is holding you back from switching from Windows to Ubuntu Linux then?
;) Do the switch!
For some reason this very interesting blurb reminded me of Frank Zappa’s “Like a Penguin in Bondage.” Good job!