I took a decision before to blog at least 2 or 3 times per week but guess I couldn’t make it. Been busy with other stuffs and also that I have started my second sem. I received a comment from “blabla” that I should keep my blog updated. So I decided to blog about some thing which I think is kinda cool and it might be for useful some people.

Most computer users or university students would have heard this terms like Linux, Ubuntu or open source but they never really knew what is it actually. I’m not a pro but just want to give some glance on something which is out of Windows. I read this quote somewhere on the net and its kinda cool.

This world has got no walls or fences, so why do we need “Windows” and “Gates” ??

Actually, Bill Gates and Microsoft has done a great job in this tech industry. Just that Microsoft doesn’t really care about the local market in smaller countries. An average person will think twice to spend money on the latest Windows softwares. So, lets just look outside the Windows !!

OK, what is open source ? Open source means softwares which are developed by software developers and they release the software with the source codes. This means others can actually understand how the software actually works by looking at the source codes. By getting the source codes, all we need to do is compile it using a compiler and it becomes a software. So in this way, the software is FREE. The developer will set a certain rules on using the codes which is given out, and we can use the source codes to suit our need.  So by editing the codes, we can create a program which best suit our needs using a basic structure.

Now I guess you understand what is open source. Linux is an open source, where programmers write codes for the kernel and stuff. Kernel is the core of a operating system. So, since it is open source many other people takes Linux codes to produce other softwares such as RedHat, OpenSuse, Debian, Fedora, Ubuntu and much more !! They create software according to their needs like server, desktops and more.

Ubuntu is a operating system which is derived from another operating system called Debian. It was created for the ease of users to use Linux with less usage of commands and also without viruses !! It is slightly less user friendly compared to Windows, but its very powerful and secure. The only sad thing is, hardware developers like ATI, Creative and much more, they do not want to give total support for Linux users. So this causes difficulity for Linux users to write own codes for hardware drivers. But don’t ever look down on a Linux programmer !! They can even create drivers for a hardware which they didnt creat.

For a start, give a try to Ubuntu. You can just place your order directly from Ubuntu and they’ll send you the CD right to your home. I know, I know, you can’t wait right ? Then, just download it from their server and burn it into a disc. As easy as that !!

Ubuntu’s Official Site

So I hope, this would help in understanding these terms. Next I’ll be posting some images regarding the desktop in Ubuntu and also the graphical software which is called Compiz. Have fun trying out open source softwares !!