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Ubuntu

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Ubuntu
Founded: October 20, 2004
Version: 9.04
Platform(s): x86, AMD64, ARM,
IA-64 (server), UltraSPARC (server)
Package method: DEB
User interface: GNOME
Official website: http://www.ubuntu.org/


Ubuntu is a derivative of Debian with a focus on the human touch, especially on usability and functionality even by non-technical users. It's created and funded by entrepreneur Mark Shuttleworth through his company Canonical Ltd.

Contents

[edit] Name Etymology

Ubuntu's idiosyncratic name is derived from a South African word which roughly translates to "humanity towards others" or "solidarity among people." This philosophy is reflected in its logo, a highly stylized suggestion of three people of different complexions embracing, arm-in-arm in a circle.

[edit] Packaging Infrastructure

Although it's derived from Debian, Ubuntu does maintain its own packaging infrastructure which they periodically synchronize with the Debian mainstream.

[edit] CPU Support

Ubuntu is available in two forms (installable images, and a LiveCD version similar to Knoppix) and on two platforms:

  • 32-bit x86 for most computers
  • 64-bit for AMD Opteron and Intel EM64T processors

As of version 7.04, Ubuntu no longer offers a version for Macintosh computers with PowerPC processors.

[edit] General Information

Ubuntu is a community developed operating system that is perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. Whether you use it at home, at school or at work Ubuntu contains all the applications you'll ever need, from word processing and email applications, to web server software and programming tools.

Ubuntu is and always will be free of charge. You do not pay any licensing fees. You can download, use and share Ubuntu with your friends, family, school or business for absolutely nothing.

We issue a new desktop and server release every six months. That means you'll always have the the latest and greatest applications that the open source world has to offer.

Ubuntu is designed with security in mind. You get free security updates for at least 18 months on the desktop and server. With the Long Term Support (LTS) version you get three years support on the desktop, and five years on the server. There is no extra fee for the LTS version, we make our very best work available to everyone on the same free terms. Upgrades to new versions of Ubuntu are and always will be free of charge.


Official Ubuntu distributions
Ubuntu Kubuntu Edubuntu Xubuntu Gobuntu
Unofficial "'buntus"
Fluxbuntu Ubuntulite Mythbuntu