Pre-installation Steps

Abstract

Now that you know a bit about where Ubuntu Linux came from, how it’s different, and why you might want to use it, it’s time to get Ubuntu running on your own desktop or laptop, using the DVD that’s included with this book. Most computers in the world run Windows, but very few people install Windows themselves. They have no need to, because almost every computer you can buy comes with Windows pre-installed. By contrast, it’s rare to find companies selling new computers with Ubuntu or any other flavor of Linux on them. There are exceptions—for example, a company called System 76 supplies excellent hardware to customers in the United States and Canada with Ubuntu pre-installed. And even Dell has been known to offer Ubuntu on a limited range of its computers, notably the inexpensive Inspiron Mini 10 netbook.