Migrating to Linux (Ubuntu?)
Well I am back and am astounded in the erudity of those who do delve into these matters very deeply.It sounds as though the comments from Grimme (28th) show that I am in much the same boat as his "case". so will follow the threads of any replies to him. 
I have been into Computers for a long time, machine code on very early machine, Fortran on Dec, Windows since 3.0. but Not Linux.. I have heard it said that it is the Next OS. but most of what is on this tread and from a couple of magazines is all greek to me. How about a beginners thread for migrating to Linux?
PS I got the Knoppix 5.3.1 no install disc - liked it but where from here?
PS I got the Knoppix 5.3.1 no install disc - liked it but where from here?
Knoppix wouldn't be regarded as suitable for a first install.
Try a Debian based(Ubuntu) or Red Hat(Fedora) distro.
Try a Debian based(Ubuntu) or Red Hat(Fedora) distro.
But the point I am trying to make, is where do I get the instructions in English and not Greek 
Try http://www.pcmech.com/article/installing-ubuntu-linux/
They have a video for a previous release (released 6 months ago) - but there aren't any really significant differences.
They have a video for a previous release (released 6 months ago) - but there aren't any really significant differences.
Quote from: Ben
Quote from: axisofevil Next time you use the computer you can use root...
I'd strongly advise against running a gui as root, that's a very quick and easy way to trash your system. Also one of the reasons that *nix based systems are more secure is that user's can't do much in the way of damage. By logging into the GUI as root and using it to browse the web etc any problems with your software become greatly magnified.
I can't agree enough with this advice and warn again all Linux newbies from trying to set up a Linux box just like they have been running their MSWindows machines. Running a Linux GUI as root (and I'm sure if you had a choice you would also have no root passwd set . . .
) is a sure-fire way to get your machine compromised as soon as you come across the next script kiddie. Now, browsing the web as root takes the highest medal of stupidity of course. Please understand that a badly configured Linux machine is just as vulnerable as your average MSWindows set up out there - so just DON'T DO IT!
Quote from: axisofevil I strongly agree with not using root signons - it's a bit like using Windows
However, anything you want to do in Linux can be done.
It does have it's uses - if you are strongly averse to command entry screens.
So if you want GUI features + access all areas + you don't want to learn about gksu etc then root logins are the way to go.
Don't be surprised if it all ends in tears though.
Lol! I asked earlier if it was possible to sign on as root with Ubuntu without using the Command Line. You replied "yes" and then gave me a list of CL instructions to achieve this....
I also said I had been severely rebuked in the Ubuntu forums for wanting to do so. Now two Ubuntu users have slapped my wrist in this forum .
Using Windoze XP Home I was able to access the registry and system files with impunity, and it never resulted in tears. Used sensibly there is no problem with logging on as root in Linux. Only a madman would use it when connected to the web, but why assume we are all mad? Its for admin only.
The reason I needed to was because I was continually trying out new installed distros. I needed to keep modifying the bootloader, and that is easily done by cutting/pasting the Grub Menu1st list. That needs root, and no way could I have done it using the CL.
It seems that Ubuntu users are intent on keeping Linux for Geeks who understand things like CL. But that won't win over the ordinary home user like me... 🙂
Actually, I was suggesting you entered two simple commands into a terminal window. 
An actual command line would not support things like copy and paste etc...
If you just want to do the standard things then you don't want or need root access.
Of course, if you can't use a text editor (such as gedit) then you are going to be rather limited.
Have you tried the notepad program available on Windows XP?
It works in a similar fashion.
"Heaven helps those who help themselves"
An actual command line would not support things like copy and paste etc...
If you just want to do the standard things then you don't want or need root access.
Of course, if you can't use a text editor (such as gedit) then you are going to be rather limited.
Have you tried the notepad program available on Windows XP?
It works in a similar fashion.
"Heaven helps those who help themselves"
Quote from: pierre_pierre But the point I am trying to make, is where do I get the instructions in English and not Greek
Over the years, I've found the two biggest factors which dictate whether to make the change to Linux or not are hardware support and comparable applications. What you need to do is to grab hold of a few Live CD's and see which distro(s) support your hardware and what applications are available.
Things you should be looking for:
- Can you get the correct video resolution and refresh rate.
- Does your printer work.
- Does your sound work correctly.
- Does your internet connection work.
- Do you have any fancy hardware, if so, does it work.
- Make a list of all the applications that you need and then see if there are decent alternatives.
All this can be done without having to install anything onto your hard drive.
Then we come to which desktop to use:
There are many different desktops available but the two most popular are Gnome and KDE. As to which one is best, it's a case of playing about with both and deciding for yourself which one is right for you.
Not wishing to be biased in any way, I would suggest getting a copy of the Ubuntu Live CD which uses the Gnome desktop and getting a copy of the PCLinuxOS Live CD which uses the KDE desktop. Have a good look at both of them and see which one is the better one for you. Once you've done that, it might be a good idea to have a look at the Mandriva One Live CD (KDE desktop) and the Fedora Live CD (Gnome desktop) before even thinking about installing anything onto your hard drive.
If you have problems with anything, go into the relevant forums and see if you can find solutions there but above all else, don't rush it!
Hope this helps .....
Thats what I call good advice for a beginner. One thing I found out was Printer Drivers, I have a Lexmark all in one, I understand that Lexmark are a closed shop and their printers wont work on any Linux. so yes I will have to play.
Just got the Subscriber Edition of PCplus, theme this time is alternatives to M$. 
Just got the Subscriber Edition of PCplus, theme this time is alternatives to M$.
According to http://tldp.org/HOWTO/Hardware-HOWTO/printers.html many Lexmark printers are supported.
Suck it and see.
Suck it and see.