Steve Smith, host of your Technology Questions Answered, introduces you to linux and how to include it correctly into your Windows machine.
Episode #1-29 released on April 17, 2011
Today, is an introduction to creating your very own dual booting computer. You may wonder why this guide of setup is practical to you as a user, or why you should have one in the first place. We will explain the reasons why it is practical to run such a system, and describe the tasks required to do so.
Having only one operating system is impractical. If you acquire a virus, or spyware, a linux operating system is better suited to removing it than remaining in the Windows session. You can always access your files in total security within a Linux session. You can also backup your files without the risk of further infection. You can also access your files if your Windows session becomes extensively damaged and unusable.
Programs on the Windows platform are plague by high prices, spyware, advertisement banners, etc... Linux programs are open-source, and generally free of charge. You also have many programs that do exactly what your Windows software can do. Some of these open source projects even get ported to the Windows platform. One such example is Open Office, a second example is Gimp. Both these programs replace applications that cost a lot, and that you may not be inclined to use often.
If security is a priority, Linux is the only logical step beyond Windows. There are no viruses, or spyware that can affect the Linux platform without user approval. Linux, a descendant of Unix, is also capable of native multiple user support, something Windows only recently started to handle correctly. You are also asked to enter your password for any activities considered a security hazard, so it limits the possibility of any unintentional damage.
Surfing the internet is made safer by the very fact that most viruses are designed only for the Windows platform. Linux is unaffected by ActiveX because its not Windows.
Linux can be run from a Disc, and does not require installation. This is a task that Windows can not deal with. You can actually run most versions on your computer from a CD, DVD, or USB key to test it before installing.
Ubuntu is very popular and user friendly version of linux. Its based on Debian, another more advanced form of Linux, both use the same programs, and getting user support online is extremely easy. Its also possible to use a linux live disk to test your system before, and use a program named Wubi to installing Linux beside Windows, creating a dual-boot computer, in this case, without using the normal linux bootloader. This makes it easier to install in the computer, fix problems, and easier to remove for less advanced users.
Well Linux comes with a lot of the software you'd be running out to staples for when you first buy a computer. It has a built in music player, video player, email support, messenger support, office software, graphic editing software, etc... If you need more software all you really need to do is go to the menu and go to software.
Next week we will give the Linux 101 to using Ubuntu, a starter guide to understanding how to use Linux, install programs, etc...
Host : Steve Smith | Music : Steve Smith | Editor : Steve Smith | Producer : Zed Axis Productions