Translations by nat6091

The second option is to mirror the desktop onto each of the displays. This is useful when you are using a laptop to display something on a larger screen e.g. projector. To enable this option just check the box beside \checkbox{Mirror displays} and click \button{Apply} to save the settings. You will get a pop-up notification asking if you want to keep the current setting or revert to the previous setting. Click to keep the current setting. Starting from Ubuntu 12.04, you can also select whether you want the Unity Launcher in both the displays or only in the primary display. Ubuntu 13.04 introduces better multi-monitor support for higher resolutions.

Like with any other operating system, Ubuntu has a built-in help reference called the \application{Ubuntu Desktop Guide}. \screenshot{02-built-in-help.png}{ss:built-in-help}{The built-in system help provides topic-based help for Ubuntu.}To access it, click on the Dash and type \userinput{Help}. Alternatively, you can press \keystroke{F1} while on the desktop, or select \button{Ubuntu Help} from the \menu{Help} menu in the menu bar. Many applications have their own help section which can be accessed by clicking the \menu{Help} menu within the application window.

[toolbar] On the right side of the toolbar, there are five buttons: \button{Search} (represented by a magnifying glass), \button{View items as a grid}, \button{View items as a list}, \button{View options} (represented by a down arrow), and \button{Location options} (represented by a cog); clicking on the \button{Search} icon opens a field so you can search for a file or folder by name. Clicking on the options buttons \button{Location options} or \button{View options} opens a menu with options. On the left side of the toolbar, you will see a representation of your current browsing. This is similar to the history function in most web browsers; it keeps track of where you are and allows you to backtrack if necessary. You can click on any of the locations to navigate back through the file browser. The buttons \button{Previous location} and {Next location} allow you to navigate through previously visited locations.

To close a window, click on the close button (\closebutton{}) in the upper-left corner of the window\dash the first button on the left-hand side. The button immediately to the right of the close button is the \gls{minimize} button (\minimizebutton{}) which removes the window from the visible screen and places it in the Launcher. \marginscreenshot{02-window-buttons.png}{ss:window-buttons}{This is the top bar of a window, named \emph{title bar}. The close, minimize, and maximize buttons are in the top-left corner of the window.} This button doesn't close the application; it just hides the application from view. When an application is minimized to the Launcher, the left-side of the icon in the Launcher will display a triangle showing you the application is still running. Clicking the icon of the minimized application will restore the window to its original position. Finally, the right-most button is the \gls{maximize} button (\maximizebutton{}) which causes the application to completely fill the unused displayable space on the desktop. Clicking the \gls{maximize} button again will return the window to its original size. If a window is maximized, its top-left buttons and menu are automatically hidden from view. To make them appear, just move your mouse to the \emph{menu bar}.

The menu bar incorporates common functions used in Ubuntu. The icons on the far-right of the menu bar are located in an area of the menu bar called the \emph{indicator area}, or \emph{notification area}. Each installation of Ubuntu may contain slightly different types and quantities of icons based on a number of factors, including the type of hardware and available on-board peripherals upon which the Ubuntu installation is based. Some programs add an icon to the indicator area automatically during installation (\eg, Ubuntu One). The most common indicators are: \marginnote{For more about: \begin{itemize} \item the \application{Ubuntu One indicator} see \seclink{sec:ubuntu-one} on page~\pageref{sec:ubuntu-one}; \item the \application{Messaging indicator} see \seclink{sec:instant-messaging} on page~\pageref{sec:instant-messaging}; \item the \application{Network indicator} see \seclink{sec:getting-online} on page~\pageref{sec:getting-online}; \item the \application{Session indicator} see \seclink{sec:session-options} on page~\pageref{sec:session-options}. \end{itemize}}

name={desktop environment}, description={A generic term to describe a \acronym{GUI} interface for humans to interact with computers. There are many desktop environments such as Unity, \acronym{GNOME}, \acronym{KDE}, \acronym{XFCE} and \acronym{LXDE}, to name a few.}

name={\acronym{GNOME}}, description={\acronym{GNOME} is a popular desktop environment and was former the default desktop environment used in Ubuntu.}

name={Live \acronym{DVD}}, description={A Live \acronym{DVD} allows you to try out an operating system before you actually install it, this is useful for testing your hardware, diagnosing problems and recovering your system.}

Ubuntu Manual Project

Canonical releases new versions of Ubuntu every six months; every fourth release is a so-called long-term support (\gls{LTS}) version. Each Ubuntu release has a version number that consists of the year and month number of the release, and an alliterative code name using an adjective and an animal. Code names are in consecutive alphabetic order, allowing a quick determination of which release is newer. Ubuntu 14.04 (code-named Trusty Tahr) is considered a so called LTS version and is supported by Canonical with patches and upgrades for five years. The previous \acronym{LTS} version is Ubuntu 12.04 (Precise Pangolin), and has support for five years (until April 2017). Whenever a new version of Ubuntu is released, we will incorporate updates and changes into our guide, and make a new version available at \url{http://www.ubuntu-manual.org}.

in the indicator area, click \menu{Session indicator \then Ubuntu Help}.

go to \url{https://help.ubuntu.com}, \menu{Ubuntu 14.04 \then Ubuntu Desktop Help}.

Ubuntu was conceived in 2004 by Mark Shuttleworth, a successful South African entrepreneur, and his company \Index[Canonical]{\gls{Canonical}}. \marginnote{To learn more about Canonical, go to \url{http://www.canonical.com}.} Shuttleworth recognized the power of Linux and open source, but was also aware of weaknesses that prevented mainstream use.

Ubuntu is built on the foundation of Linux, which is a member of the \Index{Unix} family. \Index{Unix} is one of the oldest types of operating systems, and together with Linux has provided reliability and security for professional applications for almost half a century. Many servers around the world that store data for popular websites (such as YouTube and Google) run some variant of Linux or \Index{Unix}. The popular Android system for smartphones is a Linux variant; modern in-car computers usually run on Linux. Even Apple \acronym{OS X} is based on Unix. The Linux \Index{kernel} is best described as the core\dash almost the brain\dash of the Ubuntu operating system.

While modern graphical \glspl{desktop environment} have generally replaced early command line interfaces, the command line can still be a quick and efficient way of performing many tasks. See \chaplink{ch:advanced-topics} for more information, and \chaplink{ch:the-ubuntu-desktop} to learn more about \acronym{GNOME} and other desktop environments.

Linux was designed from the ground up with security and hardware compatibility in mind, and is currently one of the most popular \Index{Unix}-based operating systems. 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 the largest super-computers. \Index{Unix} was entirely command line-based until graphical user interfaces (\glspl{GUI}) emerged in 1973 (in comparison, Apple came out with Mac \acronym{OS} ten years later, and Microsoft released Windows 1.0 in 1985).

New users to Ubuntu may find that it takes some time to feel comfortable when trying a new operating system. You will no doubt notice many similarities to both Microsoft Windows and Apple \acronym{OS X} as well as some differences. Users coming from Apple \acronym{OS X} are more likely to notice similarities due to the fact that both Apple \acronym{OS X} and Ubuntu originated from \Index{Unix}. The Unity shell, which is the default in Ubuntu, is a completely new concept, which needs some exploring to get used to it. See \chaplink{ch:the-ubuntu-desktop} for more information about the Unity shell.

[Many applications designed for Microsoft Windows or Apple \acronym{OS X} will not run on Ubuntu.] For the vast majority of everyday computing tasks, you will find 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 \gls{dual-booting}. \marginnote{To learn more about \gls{dual-booting} (running Ubuntu side-by-side with another operating system), see \chaplink{ch:installation}.} Alternatively, some applications developed for Windows will work in Ubuntu with a program called \application{Wine}. For more information on Wine, see \chaplink{ch:advanced-topics}.

[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. Since Ubuntu's market share is not as substantial as Microsoft's Windows or Apple's \acronym{OS X}, fewer game developers allocate resources towards making their games compatible with Linux. \marginnote{See \chaplink{ch:software-management} to learn more about \application{Ubuntu Software Center}.} If you just enjoy a game every now and then, there are many high quality games that can be easily installed through the \application{Ubuntu Software Center}. There are also a lot of games available at \url{http://store.steampowered.com/browse/linux/}.

If you are unsure whether it will work on your computer, the \gls{Live DVD} is a great way to test things out first. Below is a list of hardware specifications that your computer should meet as a minimum requirement.

\marginnote{\define{Torrents} are a way of sharing files and information around the Internet via peer-to-peer file sharing. A file with the \texttt{.torrent} extension is made available to users, which is then opened with a compatible program such as \application{uTorrent}, \application{Deluge}, or \application{Transmission}. These programs download parts of the file from other people all around the world.} When a new version of Ubuntu is released, the download \glspl{server} can get ``clogged'' as large numbers of people try to download or upgrade Ubuntu at the same time. If you are familiar with using torrents, you can download the torrent file by clicking ``Alternative downloads,'' and then ``BitTorrent download.'' Downloading via torrent may improve your download speed, and will also help to spread Ubuntu to other users worldwide.

\marginnote{While the 64-bit version of Ubuntu is referred to as the ``AMD64'' version, it will work on Intel, AMD, and other compatible 64-bit processors.} Once your download is complete, you will be left with a file called \emph{ubuntu-14.04-desktop-i386.iso} or similar (\emph{i386} here in the filename refers to the 32-bit version. If you downloaded the 64-bit version, the filename contains \emph{amd64} instead). This file is a \acronym{DVD} image\dash a snapshot of the contents of a \acronym{DVD}\dash which you will need to burn to a \acronym{DVD}.

\marginnote{In some cases, your computer will not recognize that the Ubuntu \acronym{DVD} or \acronym{USB} is present as it starts up and will start your existing operating system instead. To run Ubuntu from the Live \acronym{DVD} or \acronym{USB}, we want the computer to look for information from the Live \acronym{DVD} or \acronym{USB} first. Changing your \emph{boot priority} is usually handled by \acronym{BIOS} settings; this is beyond the scope of this guide. If you need assistance with changing the boot priority, see your computer manufacturer's documentation for more information.} Your computer reads information from a \acronym{DVD} at a much slower speed than it can read information off of a hard drive. Running Ubuntu from the Live \acronym{DVD} also occupies a large portion of your computer's memory, which would usually be available for applications to access when Ubuntu is running from your hard drive. The Live \acronym{DVD/USB} experience will therefore feel slightly slower than it does when Ubuntu is actually installed on your computer. Running Ubuntu from the \acronym{DVD/USB} 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.

After your computer finds the Live \acronym{DVD/USB} stick, and a quick loading screen, you will be presented with the ``Welcome'' screen. Using your mouse, select your language from the list on the left, then click the button labelled \button{Try Ubuntu}. Ubuntu will then start up, running directly from the Live \acronym{DVD/USB} drive.

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 applications, 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.

\marginnote{Alternatively, you can also use your mouse to double-click the ``Install Ubuntu 14.04'' icon that is visible on the desktop when using the Live \acronym{DVD}. This will start the Ubuntu installer.} When you are finished exploring, restart your computer by clicking the ``Power'' button in the top right corner of your screen (a circle with a line through the top) and then select \menu{Restart.} Follow the prompts that appear on screen, including removing the Live \acronym{DVD} and pressing \keystroke{Enter} when instructed, and then your computer will restart. As long as the Live \acronym{DVD} is no longer in the drive, your computer will return to its original state as though nothing ever happened!

\marginnote{If you are installing on a new machine with no operating system, you will not get the first option. The upgrade option is only available if you are upgrading from a previous version of Ubuntu.} The Ubuntu installer will automatically detect any existing operating system installed on your machine, and present installation options suitable for your system. The options listed below depend on your specific system and may not all be available:

Erase \ldots\ and install Ubuntu

For more complicated \gls{dual-booting} setups, you will need to configure the partitions manually.

Use this option if you want to erase your entire disk. This will delete any existing operating systems that are installed on that disk, such as Microsoft Windows, and install Ubuntu in its place. This option is also useful if you have an empty hard drive, as Ubuntu will automatically create the necessary partitions for you.

Formatting a partition will destroy any data currently on the partition. Be sure to back up any data you want to save before formatting. More information and detailed instructions on partitioning are available at: \url{https://help.ubuntu.com/community/HowtoPartition}.

After you have chosen the installation type, click \button{Continue}, or \button{Install Now}.

Confirm Partition choices and start install

your desired username

your desired password

This option provides you with an added layer of security. Your home folder is where your personal files are stored. By selecting this option, Ubuntu will automatically enable \gls{encryption} on your home folder, meaning that files and folders must be decrypted using your password before they can be accessed. Therefore if someone had physical access to your hard drive (for example, if your computer was stolen and the hard drive removed), they would not be able to see your files without knowing your password.

After the installation has finished and your computer is restarted, you will be greeted by the login screen of Ubuntu. The login screen will present you with your username and you will have to enter the password to get past it. Click your username and enter your password. Once done, you may click the arrow or press \keystroke{Enter} to get into the Ubuntu desktop. Ubuntu's login screen supports multiple users and also supports custom backgrounds for each user. In fact, Ubuntu automatically will pick up your current desktop wallpaper and set it as your login background.

Initially, you may notice many similarities between Ubuntu and other operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows or Apple \acronym{OS X}. This is because they are all based on the concept of a graphical user interface (\gls{GUI})\dash \ie, you use your mouse to navigate the desktop, open applications, move files, and perform most other tasks. In short, things are visually-oriented. This chapter is designed to help you become familiar with various applications and menus in Ubuntu so that you become confident in using the Ubuntu \acronym{GUI}.

The Ubuntu 14.04 default desktop.

All \acronym{GUI}-based operating systems use a \emph{desktop environment}. Desktop environments contain many features, including (but not limited to):

The look and feel of the system

The organization of the desktop

How the user navigates the desktop

\marginnote{To read more about other variants of Ubuntu, refer to \chaplink{ch:learning-more}.} In Linux distributions (such as Ubuntu), a number of desktop environments are available. Ubuntu uses \application{Unity} as the default desktop environment. After installing and logging into Ubuntu, you will see the Unity desktop. The Unity desktop is comprised of the desktop background and two bars\dash a horizontal one located at the top of your desktop called the \emph{menu bar} and a vertically-oriented bar at the far left called the \emph{Launcher}.

Below the menu bar at the top of the screen is an image covering the entire desktop. This is the default desktop background, or wallpaper, belonging to the default Ubuntu 14.04 theme known as \emph{Ambiance.} To learn more about customizing your desktop (including changing your desktop background), see the section on \seclink{sec:customizing-desktop} below.

Text entry settings \textup{(\indicatoricon{keyboard})}

allows you to select a keyboard layout, if more than one keyboard layout is chosen. The \menu{keyboard indicator} menu contains the following menu items: Character Map, Keyboard Layout Chart, and Text Entry Settings.

The first icon at the top of the Launcher is the Dash, a component of \application{Unity}. We will explore the Dash in a later section of this chapter. By default, other applications appear in the Launcher, including the \application{Files} file manager, \application{LibreOffice}, \application{Firefox}, any mounted devices, and the \lens{Trash}, which contains deleted folders and files, at the bottom of the Launcher.

Holding the Super key, also known as the Windows key (Win key), located between the left \keystroke{Ctrl} key and \keystroke{Alt} key, will cause Ubuntu to superimpose a number onto the first ten applications in the Launcher and also display a screen full of useful shortcuts. You can launch an application with a number \textit{n} on it by typing \keystroke{Super+\textit{n}}.

If you open more applications than can be shown in the Launcher, the Launcher will ``fold'' the application icons at the bottom of the Launcher. Simply move your mouse to the bottom of the Launcher, and you'll see the Launcher icons ``slide'' and the folded application icons unfold for easy access.