I used Redhat Linux back in the day when 7.3 was the current release and when Redhat Linux was free with free updates. I had been thinking about installing Linux again and had been casually looking for a distribution I might want to hang my hat on (so to speak) when I discovered Ubuntu Linux.
The Ubuntu developers have a philosophy and a product that seems to be in line with what I've been looking for in a Linux distribution. Here are some of major points I find appealing:
- Ubuntu is based on the Debian distribution which is the flavor I was considering but was avoiding because of the long waits between distribution releases. Ubuntu plans to release a new distribution every six months.
- Ubuntu Linux has a company behind it to make sure releases and updates are available in addition to support by an active user community. They have pledged never to charge a license fee. They make their money by offering paid support only.
- The people behind Ubuntu Linux are committed to the free open source software concept and working hard to get the software out to people to use.
- One impressive way they are helping to spread the word is by offering free CD-ROMs with free shipping. It's a great way to get the software to those without fast Internet connections and to get people to share it with their friends.
- Ubuntu Linux is available as a Live Linux version you can run from the CD so you can see how you like it before installing.
Ubuntu Linux is definitely worth trying whether you have ever run Linux before or not. Check it out!
