Translations by serfus

\newglossaryentry{dialup connection}{name={dialup connection}, description={A dialup connection is when your computer uses a modem to connect to an \gls{ISP} through your telephone line.}}

\newglossaryentry{notification area}{name={notification area}, description={The notification area is an applet on the panel that provides you with all sorts of information such as volume control, the current song playing in Rhythmbox, your internet connection status and email status.}}

Our goal is to cover the basics of Ubuntu (such as installation and working with the desktop) as well as guide you through some of the most popular applications. We designed this guide to be simple to follow with step-by-step instructions and plenty of screenshots, allowing you to discover the potential of your new Ubuntu system even if you are a novice computer user or are migrating from another operating system for the first time.

Please bear in mind that this guide is still very much a work in progress and always will be. It is written specifically for Ubuntu 10.04 \acronym{LTS}, and although we have aimed to not limit our instructions to this version it is unavoidable that some things will change over the life of Ubuntu. Whenever a new version of Ubuntu is released, we will incorporate any changes into our guide, and make a new version available at \url{http://www.ubuntu-manual.org}.

Linux was designed from the ground up with security and hardware compatibility in mind, and is currently one of the most popular Unix-based operating system. One of the benefits of Linux is that it is incredibly flexible and can be configured to run on almost any device\dash from the smallest micro-computers and cellphones to larger super-computers. Initially, Unix was entirely command line-based until Graphical User Interfaces (\glspl{GUI}) began to emerge in the early 1990s.

New users to Ubuntu may find that it takes some time to feel comfortable with the operating system. You will no doubt notice many similarities to both Microsoft Windows and Mac \acronym{OS~X}, as well as some things that work very differently. Users coming from Mac \acronym{OS~X} are more likely to notice similarities due to the fact that both Mac \acronym{OS~X} and Ubuntu originated from Unix.

Before you decide whether or not Ubuntu is right for you, we suggest giving yourself some time to grow accustomed to the way things are done \dash and expect to find that some things are different to what you are used to. We also suggest taking the following into account:

\textbf{Many applications designed for Microsoft Windows or Mac \acronym{OS~X} will not run on Ubuntu.} For the vast majority of tasks that people use their computers for every day, there are suitable alternative applications available in Ubuntu. However, many professional applications (such as the Adobe Creative Suite) are not developed to work with Ubuntu. If you rely on commercial software that is not compatible with Ubuntu, yet still want to give Ubuntu a try, you may want to consider dual-booting. Alternatively, some applications developed for Windows will work in Ubuntu with a program called \application{Wine}.

\textbf{Many commercial games will not run on Ubuntu.} If you are a heavy gamer, then Ubuntu may not be for you. Game developers usually design games for the largest market, where they can make the most profit. Since Ubuntu's market share is not as substantial as Microsoft's Windows or Apple's Mac \acronym{OS~X}, most game developers will not allocate resources towards making their games compatible with Ubuntu. If you just like to play a game every now and then, there is active game development within the community, and many high quality games can be easily installed through \application{Ubuntu Software Center}. Additionally, some games developed for Windows will also work in Ubuntu with \application{Wine}.

Before you can get started with Ubuntu, you will need to obtain a copy of the Ubuntu installation \acronym{CD}. Some options for doing this are outlined below.

You may notice the words ``Ubuntu Desktop 10.04 (32-bit)'' underneath the default download button on the website. If you are unsure what 32-bit means, don't worry. 32-bit will work on most computers, so if in doubt, simply proceed with the download. However, if you know that your computer is capable of using 64-bit software, you may wish to try the 64-bit version instead. To do this click on ``Alternative download options'' and make your selection.

\marginnote{\emph{32-bit} and \emph{64-bit} are types of processor architectures. 64-bit is newer, and most recent computers will come with a 64-bit capable processor. See \chaplink{ch:learning-more} for more information.}

When a new version of Ubuntu is released, sometimes the \glspl{server} can get clogged up with large numbers of people downloading or upgrading at the same time. If you are familiar with using torrents, you may wish to download the torrent file by clicking ``Alternative download options,'' and obtain your copy of the \acronym{CD} image this way instead. You may see significant improvements to your download speed, and will also be helping to spread Ubuntu to other users worldwide. Again, if you are unsure how to use torrents, you can use the default download options on the website.

\marginnote{\textbf{Torrents} are a way of sharing files and information around the Internet via ``Peer to Peer'' file sharing. When a new version of Ubuntu is released, the Ubuntu servers can become very busy. If you know how to use torrents, we recommend that you download the \acronym{CD} image this way to take the load off the servers during periods of high demand.}

The \acronym{CD} usually takes two to six weeks to arrive, depending on your location and the current demand. If you would rather start using Ubuntu sooner, you may prefer to follow the instructions above for downloading the \acronym{CD} image, and then burn it to a disc instead.

The speed at which your computer can read information from a \acronym{CD} is much slower than reading information from a hard drive. Running Ubuntu from the Live \acronym{CD} also occupies a large portion of your computer's memory, which would usually be available for programs to access when Ubuntu is running from your hard drive. The Live \acronym{CD} experience will therefore feel slightly slower than it does when Ubuntu is actually installed on your computer. However, running Ubuntu from the \acronym{CD} is a great way to test things out and allows you to try the default applications, browse the Internet, and get a general feel for the operating system. It's also useful for checking that your computer hardware works properly in Ubuntu and that there are no major compatibility issues.

Once Ubuntu is up and running, you will see the default desktop. We will talk more about how to actually use Ubuntu in \chaplink{ch:the-ubuntu-desktop}, but for now feel free to test things out, open some programs, change settings and generally explore\dash any changes you make will not be saved once you exit, so you don't need to worry about accidentally breaking anything.

The process of installing Ubuntu is designed to be quick and easy, however, we realize that some people may find the idea a little daunting. To help you get started we have included step-by-step instructions below, along with screenshots so you can see how things will look along the way.

This next step is often referred to as \emph{partitioning}. Partitioning is the process of allocating portions of your hard drive for a specific purpose. When you create a partition, you are essentially dividing up your hard drive into sections that will be used for different types of information. Partitioning can sometimes seem complex to a new user, however, it does not have to be. In fact, Ubuntu provides you with some options that greatly simplify this process.

If you already have another operating system installed on your hard drive, and want to install Ubuntu alongside it, choose the \radiobutton{Install them side by side, choosing between them each startup} option.

Type in your full name under ``What is your name?''. The next text field is where you select a username for yourself, and is the name that will be displayed at the Ubuntu login screen when you turn on your computer. You will see this is automatically filled in for you with your first name. Most people find it easiest to stick with this, however, it can be changed if you prefer.

\marginnote{Although you can choose your preferred username and computer name, you are required to stick with letters, numbers, hyphens, and dots. You will receive a warning if symbols or other characters are entered, and until this is altered you will be unable to progress to the next screen.}

Next, choose a password and enter it into the first password field on the left, then type the same again into the right field to verify. When both passwords match, a strength rating will appear on the right that will tell you whether your password is ``too short,'' ``weak,'' ``fair,'' or ``strong.'' You will be able to continue the installation process regardless of your password strength, however, for security reasons it is best to choose a strong one. This is best achieved by having a password that is at least six characters long, and is a mixture of letters, numbers, symbols, and uppercase/lowercase. For extra security, avoid obvious passwords like your birth date, spouse's name, or the name of your pet.

Now you need to decide on your computer's name. Again, this will be filled in for you automatically using the login name you entered above (it will say something like ``john-desktop'' or ``john-laptop.''), however, it can be changed if you prefer. Your computer name will mainly be used for identifying your computer if you are on a home or office network with multiple other computers. To learn more about setting up a network, refer to \chaplink{ch:default-applications}.

This option is selected by default, as it will prevent unauthorized people from accessing your computer without knowing the password you created earlier. This is a good option for those that, for example, share their computer with other family members. Once the installation process has been completed, an additional login account can be created for each family member. Each person will then have their own login name and password, account preferences, Internet bookmarks, and personal storage space.

Wait while your computer restarts, and you will then see the login window (unless you selected automatic login).

\textbf{Xubuntu}, which uses the \acronym{XFCE} graphical environment instead of the \acronym{GNOME} environment found in Ubuntu;

\textbf{Lubuntu}, which uses the \acronym{LXDE} graphical environment.

\textbf{Ubuntu Studio}, which is designed for creating and editing multimedia; and

For more information about these derivative distributions, see \url {http://www.ubuntu.com/products/whatisubuntu/derivatives}.

This manual does not explain the process of running a secure web server or performing other tasks possible with Ubuntu Server Edition. For details on using Ubuntu Server Edition, refer to the manual at \url{http://www.ubuntu.com/products/whatisubuntu/serveredition}.

If you would like to learn more about Ubuntu Studio (or obtain a copy for yourself), visit \url{http://ubuntustudio.org/home}.

Mythbuntu allows users to turn their computers into entertainment systems. It helps users organize and view various types of multimedia content such as movies, television shows, and video podcasts. Users with \acronym{TV} tuners in their computers can also use Mythbuntu to record live video and television shows.

To learn more about Mythbuntu, visit \url{http://www.mythbuntu.org/}.

As mentioned earlier in this manual, Ubuntu and its derivatives are available in two versions: 32-bit and 64-bit. This difference refers to the way computers process information. Computers capable of running 64-bit software are able to process more information than computers running 32-bit software; however, 64-bit systems require more memory in order to do this. Nevertheless, these computers gain performance enhancements by running 64-bit software.

Why choose one over another? Pay attention to the version you select in the following cases:

If your computer is fairly old (made before 2007), then you may want to install the 32-bit version of Ubuntu. This is also the case for most netbooks.

This guide is not intended to be an all-encompassing resource filled with everything you'll ever need to know about Ubuntu. Because \emph{Getting Started with Ubuntu 10.04} could never answer all your questions, we encourage you to take advantage of Ubuntu's vast community when seeking further information, troubleshooting technical issues, or asking questions about your computer. Below, we'll discuss a few of these resources \dash located both inside the operating system and on the Internet \dash so you can learn more about Ubuntu or other Linux distributions.

If you need additional help when using Ubuntu or its applications, click the \textbf{Help} icon on the top panel, or navigate to \menu{System \then Help and Support.} Ubuntu's built-in help guide covers a broad range of topics in great detail.

The Ubuntu Documentation team has created and maintains a series of wiki pages designed to help both new and experienced users learn more about Ubuntu. You can access these at \url{http://help.ubuntu.com}.

The Ubuntu Forums are the official forums of the Ubuntu community. Millions of Ubuntu users use them daily to seek help and support from one another. You can create an Ubuntu Forums account in minutes. To create an account and learn more about Ubuntu from community members, visit \url{http://ubuntuforums.org}.

Launchpad, an open source code repository and user community, provides a question and answer service that allows anyone to ask questions about any Ubuntu-related topic. Signing up for a Launchpad account requires only a few minutes. Ask a question by visiting Launchpad at \url{https://answers.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+addquestion}.

\marginnote{In addition to official Ubuntu and community help, you will often find third-party help available on the Internet. While these documents can often be great resources, some could be misleading or outdated. It's always best to verify information from third-party sources before taking their advice.}

Within the Ubuntu community are dozens of local user groups called ``LoCo teams.'' Spread throughout the world, these teams offer support and advice, answer questions and promote Ubuntu in their communities by hosting regular events. To locate and contact the LoCo team nearest you, visit \url{http://loco.ubuntu.com/}.

If you've exhausted all these resources and still can't find answers to your questions, visit Community Support at \url{http://www.ubuntu.com/support/CommunitySupport}.

This manual wouldn't have been possible without the efforts and contributions from the following people:

Team Leads

\begingroup\parindent0pt\parskip0pt\obeylines{} Benjamin Humphrey\dash Team Lead Kevin Godby\dash Lead \TeX{}nician Jamin Day\dash Head of Editing Ilya Haykinson\dash Authors coordinator Josh Holland\dash Translation maintenance Thorsten Wilms\dash Design Adnane Belmadiaf\dash Web development Luke Jennings\dash Quickshot developer Neil Tallim\dash Quickshot developer Simon Vermeersh\dash Quickshot developer \endgroup

Joe Burgess \item Thomas Cantara \item Sayantan Das \item Kelvin Gardiner \item Matt Griffin \item Ilya Haykinson \item Wolter Hellmund \item Josh Holland \item Benjamin Humphrey \item Luke Jennings \item Elan Kugelmass \item Ryan Macnish