While browsing the Internet, you may hold come across a word called “Ubuntu”, especially if you are peeking for alternatives to the Windows operative system, so what is Ubuntu? Why do people choose to use it? Can it be used with Windows?
What is Ubuntu?
It is one of the Linux distributions, and Linux is an open source system that some people rely on as the kernel of the operating system and modified to create other operating systems called Linux distributions, Ubuntu is one of these distributions and one of the most famous.
Therefore, Ubuntu Desktop is a Linux distro developed by Canonical and is one of the most popular due to its ease of use. Ubuntu is also one of the best options for people who are new to Linux.
Ubuntu is a home-like, UNIX-like operating system developed by Linux, created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. Linux distributions are generally free and open source, and many are great alternatives to popular operating systems such as Windows and Mac.
Why do people use Ubuntu?
If you want to understand why people like to use Ubuntu, you should take a look at all the probable reasons why Ubuntu is of appeal to many.
Ubuntu is free to use
Ubuntu is a free and ad-free operating system, unlike Windows which surprises you with ads that appear in the form of a pop-up that appears at the bottom right of the screen.
Ease of use
The best thing about Ubuntu is that it's an operating system that was built to get beginners on the Linux train, and while it looks a lot different than Windows. Ubuntu uses one of the most popular DEs in the Linux world, where you and your computer can interact in a visually appealing way, and anyone with basic computer knowledge can easily install this operating system, and set up the entire computer system.
Privacy and security
You don't have to use antivirus when relying on Ubuntu, you may have heard people say that Linux is more secure than other operating systems, due to its open-source nature, and the low numbers of viruses targeting Linux. When we say that an operating system or software is open source, the source code is open to anyone to add code, or make changes, that's why thousands of people and developers work together to fix problems and security holes, so it is less vulnerable to viruses.
Software and applications
The Ubuntu operating system comes with its store called Ubuntu Software which allows you to search for applications, and install them with just a few clicks.
Works on a range of devices
The Ubuntu operating system can be installed on many devices, including Windows or Mac computers, and it runs on network servers, and IoT devices, as well as in simulated or virtual computing environments.
Can Ubuntu be used with Windows?
If you want to try Ubuntu but don't know how and where to start? Ubuntu can be booted from a USB drive or a CD drive as well and used without installation. Or install it within Windows without partitioning the hard drive, run it in a window on the Windows desktop, or install it with Windows on your computer.
Use a USB drive or CD
Once you have Ubuntu in the drive, you can insert the USB or insert the CD or DVD into any computer you come across, then restart the computer. The computer will boot from the removable media that you have connected and you will be able to use Ubuntu without making any changes to your computer's hard drive.
Install Ubuntu on Windows using Wubi
Earlier, installing Linux on the hard drive was tedious for new users, as they had to resize existing partitions to make room for the new Linux operating system. If you decide that you don't want to use Linux later, you will have to delete the new partitions and resize the old partitions to regain space. But now you can try Ubuntu there is a better way to do it, you can install it on Windows using Wubi.
Wubi performs like any other application and installs Ubuntu to a file on your Windows section. When your computer restarts, you will have the option to boot into Ubuntu, or Windows. When you boot into Ubuntu it intention work as if it was installed normally on your hard drive. Best of all, if you choose not to continue using Ubuntu, you can remove it from the Windows Control Panel.
Run Ubuntu on a virtual machine
Like other operating systems, you can run Ubuntu on a virtual machine on your computer. The virtual device launches Ubuntu in a window on the Windows desktop or Mac. You will be capable to try Linux without restarting the device, but you should understand that virtual machines are less fast than handling the operating system on the computer itself.
To make an Ubuntu virtual machine, download and install VirtualBox, make a new virtual device, select the Ubuntu operating system, and provide the ISO file you downloaded from the Ubuntu website when prompted.
Dual OS for Ubuntu
If you want to use Linux but still want to leave Windows established on your device, it can be installed in dual boot arrangement mode. Simply place the Ubuntu installation file on a USB drive, CD, or DVD utilizing the same technique above. Once this is done, restart your device and select the option to install Ubuntu rather than the option to try Ubuntu.