Many people are intimidated by the word “Linux” and many more yet don’t even know what it means. Linux is the name given to a group of operating systems, called “distributions”. These Linux “flavors” as they are refereed to are based on UNIX, much like Mac OS X. The Linux flavors are an attractive alternative to Mac and Windows users because they are high customizable and completely free (with very few exceptions). Linux take a bit of getting used to for those of you accustomed to Windows machines, but if you’re a bit tech savvy and budget oriented it might be the operating system for you.
Where To Find Linux
Although you can easily find and download many of the Linux operating system flavors for free, if you’re looking to purchase a new notebook, consider checking out Dell first. They give you the option to purchase laptops with the Linux flavor of Ubuntu over Windows, which will save you the cost of paying for an operating system. Linux will run on just about any PC laptop and almost all Mac hardware as well.
Linux Software
Much like Windows of Mac OS X, Linux requires its own software. You’ll need to find Linux versions of the most popular Windows titles (if they exist) and Mac users should be able to find many more compatible programs. (Mac OS X and Linux are both built upon UNIX and this commonality allows for more software crossover.) Windows users may find it difficult to find all of their programs in a Linux version but can replace some of Microsoft’s biggest sellers with free alternative software.
- Consider using the free Java-based OpenOffice instead of Microsoft Office.
- Firefox is customizable and arguably the best Web browser.
- Get the free anti-virus program for Linux, ClamAV.
Linux will also run on netbooks and is a good option to consider for budget travelers who aren’t afraid of a few days learning curve to get used to the different operating system.
Trying Linux Out
Using free virtual machine software like VirtualBox, you can download and install any of the Linux flavors on your existing Windows of Mac machine. Virtual machines let you run a little virtual computer inside of a window of your existing operating system so it won’t affect or change anything on your laptop. It gives you the opportunity to try out and learn how to use some of the more popular flavors of Linux like Ubuntu and OpenSUSE right from your desktop.
You can also download and install a portable version of Linux on to a USB stick and take it anywhere with you. Portable Linux also lets you install programs and keep your customizations on the thumb drive. This is especially useful when visiting Internet cafes and you can’t trust the computer you’re working on. Simply load up your portable Linux USB drive and you’ll have your very own private virtual machine, with all of your programs and settings to work off of in a safe environment. When you’re done, all of you have to do take your USB drive and take your portable computer operating system with you.
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