First of all, Ubuntu Linux is a free, open-source alternative to the expensive Windows operating system. Every few years Microsoft updates its software to add new features and charges an arm and a leg for them. Windows Vista currently sells for hundreds of dollars while Ubuntu (and most Linux distros) are always free to download. In short, a person has very little to lose by trying out Ubuntu, and many people find that this new operating system has much more to provide than simply an excellent price point.
A Huge, Free Support Network:
One of the beautiful things about Ubuntu and Linux in general is the huge support base that is available for it. Hundreds of thousands of people all over the world use Linux and help each other out with problems via many different online support forums. No need to pay for support calls or wait for days for a response to an email. Most questions posed about user problems are solved within hours. Also, since the software is open-source and constantly being developed, new additions to the software or important security updates are available very quickly rather than having to wait for service packs or weekly updates.
What Is The Downside To Using Ubuntu?
Sadly, the thing that works most in Ubuntu's favor is the same thing that works against it. It isn't Windows. Ubuntu cannot run Windows software natively, however many programs can be used with Ubuntu using a separate program known as Wine (an open-source Windows emulator). Despite this drawback, there are still hundreds of high quality software programs available for the Linux platform and as with Ubuntu, most of these applications are also FREE! Instead of spending hundreds more on Microsoft Office a person can download the free OpenOffice suite and get the same functionality and convenience without the hit to the wallet. Also, the Internet works just fine on Linux, so avid Web surfers will not have any problems. If all a person tends to do on a computer is surf the Internet and write a few letters or presentations, Linux is an excellent alternative and Ubuntu makes it incredibly easy. Take it for a free spin today!
A Huge, Free Support Network:
One of the beautiful things about Ubuntu and Linux in general is the huge support base that is available for it. Hundreds of thousands of people all over the world use Linux and help each other out with problems via many different online support forums. No need to pay for support calls or wait for days for a response to an email. Most questions posed about user problems are solved within hours. Also, since the software is open-source and constantly being developed, new additions to the software or important security updates are available very quickly rather than having to wait for service packs or weekly updates.
What Is The Downside To Using Ubuntu?
Sadly, the thing that works most in Ubuntu's favor is the same thing that works against it. It isn't Windows. Ubuntu cannot run Windows software natively, however many programs can be used with Ubuntu using a separate program known as Wine (an open-source Windows emulator). Despite this drawback, there are still hundreds of high quality software programs available for the Linux platform and as with Ubuntu, most of these applications are also FREE! Instead of spending hundreds more on Microsoft Office a person can download the free OpenOffice suite and get the same functionality and convenience without the hit to the wallet. Also, the Internet works just fine on Linux, so avid Web surfers will not have any problems. If all a person tends to do on a computer is surf the Internet and write a few letters or presentations, Linux is an excellent alternative and Ubuntu makes it incredibly easy. Take it for a free spin today!
