Ubuntu Linux is the fastest growing Linux-based operating system, and Beginning Ubuntu Linux, Fifth Edition teaches all of usincluding those who have never used Linuxhow to use it productively, whether you come from Windows or the Mac or the world of open source.
Beginning Ubuntu Linux, Fifth Edition shows you how to take advantage of Lucid Lynx. Based on the best-selling previous edition, Emilio Raggi maintains a fine balance between teaching Ubuntu and introducing new features. Whether you aim to use it in the home or in the office, you'll be introduced to the world of Ubuntu Linux, from simple word processing to using cloud services. You'll learn how to control the Ubuntu system, which you just installed from the book's DVD, as you are guided through common tasks such as configuring the system's graphical user interface (GUI), listening to audio CDs and MP3s, producing documents, using VoIP and chat, and of course, general system maintenance.
This book also supplies a series of comprehensive tutorials on Ubuntu administration and securityessential for any Ubuntu userwhile not neglecting matters pertaining to office applications and the cloud. What you'll learn Use Ubuntu as a daily desktop on your laptop or PC Complete office tasks, such as creating Microsoft Officecompatible documents and spreadsheets, using email, and managing contacts Listen to MP3s, manage pictures and CDs, and watch movies using a userfriendly Linux desktop Configure Ubuntu's printer and filesharing features to share resources seamlessly with other computers on your network Administer and secure your Ubuntu machine Who this book is for
Everyone who uses Ubuntu daily, whether in the office or in the home
Table of Contents Meet Ubuntu Linux GNU "slash" Linux Pre-installation Steps Installing Ubuntu Solving Installation Problems Booting Ubuntu for the First Time Getting Everything Up and Running How to Secure Your Computer Personalizing Ubuntu: Getting Everything Just Right Managing Your Data A World of Applications Working with Text Files Making the Move to OpenOffice.org Communicating with Others Social Networks and Cloud Computing Digital Audio Movies and Multimedia Digital Photos Playing Games Installing and Removing Software Understanding Linux Users and File Permissions Optimizing Your System Backing Up Data Scheduling Tasks Accessing Computers Remotely Taking Control of the System Introducing the BASH Shell Glossary of Linux Terms Getting Further Help Exploring the DVD-ROM and Other Ubuntu Versions "
Granted I read an outdated version of this book, I found much of its information to be general enough to apply to even the latest version of Ubuntu. As an Ubuntu newbie, I appreciated both this book's easy-to-understand language that left few concepts undefined and its relative comprehensiveness. Although I wouldn't say this book took me "From Novice to Professional," as its subtitle promises, I would say that I feel fairly grounded in the basics concepts of Ubuntu (and GNU/Linux in general) and am prepared to move on to more specialized books and guides.
I found this far too remedial for my purposes. This is focused on the computer illiterate, which is probably a small segment of users installing and using Linux. I found "Ubuntu for Non-Geeks: A Pain-Free, Get-Things-Done Guide" by Rickford Grant and Phil Bull to have more useful information that goes beyond simply installing and turning on the computer.
This is good if you are considering moving from Windows to Linux. It gives a good overview of all the aspects to consider and serves as a good introduction to the whole concept. You can get a feel for what it will be like if you make the switch.