Ubuntu (Desktop) v8.04.2 LTS (open source)

Ubuntu (Desktop) v8.04.2 LTS

Ubuntu is a community developed, linux-based operating system that is perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. It contains all the applications you need: a web browser, presentation, document and spreadsheet software, instant messaging and much more.

User reviews
KSib 04 Oct 2009 16:42 Ubuntu (Desktop) v9.10 (Karmic Koala) Beta
It always seems like when I feel like trying something different i run into problems when using Ubuntu. It's either: - A failed installation and a frozen gui - Bad drivers for my video/wireless card - The responsiveness of XP or earlier when a window freezes. At least Vista could move on from an error if it was just one window. I don't particularly care for Vista, but I'd rather use that over Ubuntu. Linux is for people who are bored of Windows I'm pretty sure, or developers. Definitely not for gamers or for the average user who wants their stuff to work more often than not. It works....I guess, but it's nothing special really. If it wasn't clearly made for the average user then I'd rate it higher, but it is and it's less intuitive than Windows when it just comes down to say... installing a flash player. I get 3 options for installing a flash player. Why? Just install the Adobe one and don't ask. Normal users don't like to be asked questions they don't know the answer to. You're the computer right? You deal with it. On the plus side, I do like how simple it looks. It's not too intimidating. It comes pre-installed with that Office suite; which is a big plus. I'm not sure, but Windows machines may have started shipping out with Works for free. I'm not sure. Having default word processing and spreadsheets should be standard by now anyway, so good job there. The way to install new supported programs is nice so you don't have to search all over the Internet for something random and download something malicious is really nice. Even with this, I can't recommend people to switch to Ubuntu (or maybe even any Linux distro). It doesn't just work reliably enough to suggest it to someone and that's a big deal. Why do you think Mac commercials (I hate using them as an example because they come off as childish), but this is why they say they "just work." People really like that. Ubuntu isn't there yet. Close, yes, but not quite there.
shorep 27 Sep 2009 6:36 Ubuntu (Desktop) v9.04 (Jaunty Jackalope)
Had the usual problems with microsoft so loaded ubuntu,needs some commands input to set up various devices,like screen resolution.The help is all online just type ubuntu,and follow instructions. Great operating system easy to use and change and quick.
DSWarrior 07 May 2008 16:59 Ubuntu (Desktop) v0.8.4
Works great for me! I got rid of both XP and Vista and installed this OS. There are some manual setups and commands waiting to be done like on any other Linux OS, but once configured it's the BEST OS out there! Believe me...