When dealing with desktop computers and laptops, Microsoft Windows is usually the choice that many people make. However, one major player in the field has been working on an Operating System for the average user. Ubuntu’s Linux, the operating system that has been known to be fairly complex, is now working on a product for the average computer user that will be just the same, if not better as easier, than Microsoft Windows. But whether it has really proved itself to be a consumer desktop operating system favorite remains to be seen. As with previous
versions of the Ubuntu Linux system, some aspects can be downright tricky! But nevertheless, there are some very distinct differences among Windows and Linux, even though Ubuntu has tried to level the playing field a bit.
Installing both Operating Systems
When it comes to installing Windows Vista and Ubuntu’s Linux operating system, the process is very much the same. All you need to do is load the CD into the drive, reboot the computer, and voila! Most of the setup is self-explanatory, but not many people usually deal with installing their operating systems anyway, considering that most of the time they are bundled with the computer and are pre-loaded. However, one edge that Ubuntu does have over Microsoft is the fact that Linux can be installed on top of a Windows operating system for free in order to users to try it out for as long as they want, however, there are some obvious Linux operating system issues that trial-runs will not be able to take advantage of. Microsoft does allow Vista to run as a free trial, but a user’s limit is only 30 days.
Dealing with Hardware Devices
As with all of Microsoft Windows’ operating systems, detecting hardware and installing them is usually as easy as 1-2-3. However, the process remains the same with Windows Vista. Users are able to manage their hardware pieces in the Device Manager application and see everything that their computer has. Also, Plug-n-play devices, such as digital cameras and printers are easily detectable. However, Ubuntu makes these processes a little bit more difficult than Microsoft does for Windows users. Linux does not have a device manager where you can edit and make changes to the hardware’s drivers and such, but users need to manually edit each configuration file if they want to change something. Also, Plug-n-play devices are not universally and automatically recognized, but the Removable Drives and Media Preferences application will allow you to manage these devices.
Word Processing Applications
Ubuntu users will be happy about this aspect of the Linux operating system, but Linux includes the OpenOffice suite program with their operating system, making it very easy for users to take advantage of the useful tools. Even though OpenOffice can be added quickly to the Vista operating system, it is not installed for instant use.
All in all, Ubuntu’s Linux operating system has made several changes to their program and is definitely able to compete with Microsoft when it comes to Windows Vista. Even though previous versions of the Linux program may have been terribly difficult, Ubuntu has definitely made positive changes for their operating system users.
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