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Uncomplicated Ubuntu

Ubuntu is an open-source Linux distribution operating system, and if that sounds like geek to you, it shouldn't. If you've only ever used Windows, the idea of trying a new operating system might sound a little scary. But with Wubi you can download and try Ubuntu easily, and with the knowledge that you can go back to Windows whenever you like.

Wubi is simply an installer for Ubuntu, and as such, it's not at all complicated. The program allows users to install--and uninstall--Ubuntu as they would any other Windows application. In essence, you get an operating system … Read more

Featured Freeware: Wubi

If you're looking for a safe and easy way to test out the switch from Windows to Linux, Wubi might be the program for you. Wubi's dialog interface requires users to select a mere six options to install Ubuntu, but don't expect direct help with this utility. Users are expected to have a basic understanding of Linux and booting into alternate operating systems, and you'll have to rely on the Wubi FAQ and forums for assistance.

Selecting the install drive, hard-drive space, language, username, and password is quick with pull-down selectors. The most difficult decision is … Read more

Windows and Linux converge

The alternative, open-source operating system Linux has been making news recently. Last week, Dell began shipping PCs with the Linux distribution Ubuntu pre-installed, and on Friday I took a look at Wubi, free Windows software that lets you install and run Ubuntu on your Windows machine without creating a boot CD or partitioning your hard drive.

According to recent stats from W3Counter, Linux still holds only a tiny fraction of the personal-computing market share (slightly less than Windows 98!), but there's definitely a convergence going on within Windows, Mac, and Linux software development. The excellent personal-finance software GnuCash was … Read more

Wubi makes Linux on Windows simple

Computer giant Dell made big news yesterday when it began shipping desktops and laptops pre-installed with Ubuntu, a popular Linux distribution. I'm not sure who the heck is going to buy a Linux Dell, but it certainly marks a sea change in retail computing. In terms of prepackaged operating systems, users have basically been stuck for a long time with the solitary choice of Windows vs. Mac. The fact that consumers can now purchase a Linux machine with support from the distributor certainly validates the open-source movement and Ubuntu in particular.

Yet if you're curious about Linux or … Read more