A few times in the recent past I have tried to use the new Linux operating system, Ubuntu. It's especially intriguing since several computer companies like Dell are opting to ship computers with it pre-installed. It's definitely comparable to Windows and Leopard, but it has one thing that they can't even come close to touching... It's free. Ubuntu comes with several different variations, but I won't confuse people with those here.

I'd first recommend trying it out before you worry about which install to go with. Just download the live CD, burn it to a disc, leave it in your computer, then reboot. When your computer starts up, you will get a menu with several selections including the "try without changing my computer" option. When you select it, you will have the ability to try Ubuntu to whatever extent you'd like. Add a new theme, install a new application, surf the web, try one of the many games available. Just keep in mind that as soon as you take the disk out, everything will be lost. But, that is one of the appealing things about Ubuntu. The look before you leap capability.

In my case, I had tried Ubuntu (Hardy Heron version) and thought that I would want to install it and start using it full time. I walked through the install, which is very simple actually. When it came time to tell Ubuntu where to install, I used the partition editor to set up around 20 gig of my hard drive which would be devoted to my new OS. During the install process, the CD failed (thanks to a thumb-print on the CD that I didn't notice) and suddenly I couldn't boot my Windows XP partition. Oops. I guess, in a way, I was pushed into Ubuntu leaving XP far far behind me.

I still can't boot to it, but I can easily access Ubuntu which I use primarily. I can still access my data and my files from the XP partition, but no more Windows! I'm feeling - very strongly I might add - that as soon as I can get my data backed up, Ubuntu will be my one and only OS. I know what you're thinking. Maybe you should take the plunge too, right? Well there are a few things to think about before you write Windows (or Leopard) off permanently.

The first thing to think about is What kind of user am I? If you are a basic computer user enjoying the internet, email, instant messaging, the occasional game of Solitaire or "Mahjongg", some word processing, and some photo editing - Ubuntu could be for you. There are several free applications that come pre-installed that will accommodate you nicely. Anything else you need is probably free and easily installed.

But you're thinking, I'm a gamer and I need my World of Warcraft! From what I hear, WoW runs just find on Ubunutu. If you're geeky enough to be a gamer, you're probably geeky enough to figure out how to research your games to see if they will work (either out of box or using Wine.)

The same goes for programmers, web developers, and students. My only reservation is for those of you (and me) that do a fair amount of graphic or media development. I haven't checked to see if the applications can really do what I need, but I am researching that now. I do know that I can use Adobe CS2 products through Wine, and Gimp works great for my photo editing needs. All in all, being pushed into using Ubuntu hasn't been too painful. I think you should look into this new operating system, especially if you are having Vista pains. :)