by duke.of.data on May 7th, 2009

Question

Help answer this question below.

I am curious why you think ubuntu is not as wide spread as it shoud be. it is free, has more drivers pre-installed then windows, boot quicker, runs faster, all software is free, it is easyier, 2 desktops, needs less RAM, ect...FREE! have you tried it?

Like
Report

Share:: Facebook; Twitter; Other

Answers. 7 helpful answers below.

by Legend In Your Own Mind on July 5th, 2009
Ubuntu is far from the only distro.. I'm using an older jalopy with Debian etch and it ticks me off because i can't get flash to run on it..but debian (Ubuntu is based on Debian) has tons more crap that runs with it all free too.
Half the people out there are afraid to hit the Ctrl button let alone install a new OS.. Go figure. ;)
Comments
- i fix computers for a living and windows has many problems(most of them are easy to fix) but these small issues are so plentiful that i would expect people to at least be curious about a better way. at least microsoft is begining to lose grip on it's monopoly to apple and (even if only a small amount) to ubuntu.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on July 7th, 2009
- Ubunto, fedora, debian, slackware, freebsd, etc. Consumers have few options, but once they consume they have many more options. To bad the comps don't come with multiple OS's installed by default
  - Report
  by Legend In Your Own Mind on July 7th, 2009
Add a comment...
- Like
- Report
2 comments | Post one | Permalink
by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 7th, 2009
Ubuntu is unpopular because it is different. The same goes for Firefox and OpenOffice.

People tend to run their system as it came out of the box. Many don't even bother changing the resolution on their screen and most give me headaches since they leave their refresh rate at the stock 60Hz. They stick with IE because that is what came on the PC when they got it and it's too much hassle to click on a download link and switch to a more secure, less annoying, faster browser.

Also, many people consider installing an OS to be a black art. Even installing an application would confuse many of them despite the drool-proof interface of the installer, let alone reinstalling WinXP; people are intimidated by computers.

Personally though, I am steering clear of Ubuntu as it annoyed me more than other distros I have tried. I haven't been happy with any of them so far, really, but Ubuntu made me less happy than some.
Comments
- i fix computer as a side job and i cannot agree more. most people are confused and intimidated by computers. when i do virus removal you should see the look on their faces when i remove the hard drive and set it as an external to scan it from my laptop. but it is not necessary, shock value and some simple explanations go a long way for the average computer user.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 9th, 2009
- Yeah, people like simplissity and fast. They have jobs and lives to live. So they don't have time to learn new things.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 10th, 2009
- Personally, I am of the opinion that the only people who deserve computers (or cars) are those who know how to take care of them themselves, but I suppose that I am a bit of an elitist snob that way.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 10th, 2009
- hey Jerv, i like those thoughts but stupidity is the bases of our economy. if people ppl knew how to fix thier own crap then there would be no sales or services for people to trade/sell.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 10th, 2009
- That would also leave more resources (brainpower included) available for R&D.
  But I don't expect people to be able to do *all* of their own stuff, just the basics like keep their AV updated, or remember to take their car in for an oil change every so often... BASIC stuff.
  Sometimes things break and you *need* a professional. Some problems can't be solved with a simple RTFM. Ever replace your own head gasket? Service will always be around.
  And sometimes something shiner will come along and people will want to upgrade. That means sales. And if the state of the art advaces a little quicker, the upgrade cycles get shorter.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 10th, 2009
- speakin of head gasket; i just recently found out my head gasket and engine block have been busted for quiet some time. i have NO idea how the van still runs but she dose just fine. i do almost all my own work on her and thought i was just not changing the oil often enough but after only 800 miles it was burned and watery. then i found oil in my radiater and a leak on both the oil pan and the very bottom of the radiator. but until she is giving me issues i dont plan to fix these bigger issues, just the leaks.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 11th, 2009
- I have blown two head gaskets and cracked a couple of blocks in my day. Some engines don't mind a little abuse. The 4A-LC in my old Corolla would spike the temp gauge within 10 miles, but I drove it for almost two weeks (with a little TLC) waiting for parts and it ran fine for years afterwards.
  My old Aerostar ran for quite a while without a water pump; it took me three months to crack the block on that thing, but it was only a $250 van that would never pass inspection again anyways so I didn't care much about it.
  However, my Corsica was more delicate. I noticed a slight loss of power. Within two days, before I could troubleshoot it, it was near death. On it's final trip home, it's top speed went from normal to ~30 on level ground and it barely made it into my driveway. I coasted it down the hill to the garage and when they went to move it from the parking lot, it shot over a gallon of antifreeze out the tailpipe.
  And then there was the Golf that I went a little too long between oil changes (~3500 miles). It lost oil pressure and I found a quart of GAS in the oil pan. Four quarts of 10W-40 later, it ran without a hitch until I got rid of it in favor of a Civic.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 11th, 2009
- i go this van for 300 bucks, the transmission still only has 2 speeds, the head gasket has appently been cracked for at least 2000 miles. but less then 4000. but she has still not given me any trouble except for wanteding a fresh quart of oil every couple of days. last oil change, 2 days ago, all the oil it had was less then 2 quarts and the requirment in this van is 6. this car knows how to accept abuse. my old pathfinder, 2003, had a blown head, over-heated in under 10 miles, died the second we got it home...never worked again. it busted about 3 weeks befor we made our last payment. LOL
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 11th, 2009
- You busted a Nissan engine? Whoa! I know the Pathfinders had a few issues, but I hear more about driveline and suspension issues. Nissan tends to build tough engines.
  Now you know why the most I ever paid for a car was $1375. They tend to break anyways, so why sink more than you earn into them, eh?
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 11th, 2009
- LOL that nissan was one hell of a beast...i could talk for hours about the stuff i did in that car and you would either doubt or out-right dis belive half of it. anyway when she over-heated dad sprayed cold water on the block...sealing her fate. i am 20 and have gone through 5 cars. i never paid more then $350 on a car, pathfinder technically belonged to my dad. this van has a durango engine in it, between the oringonal dieing at around 300,000 miles and this engine(was already heavyily used when installed) this van has 455,000 Miles on it. i set the odometer to zero when i got it...4,995 miles form me...and i know she can go another 95,000 miles before she retires. what do you drive right now?
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 11th, 2009
- Heh. I've heard some of jerv's car stories- I'm pretty sure he'd believe yours!
  Good luck with the van, and kudos on keeping it going so far.
  Right now I don't drive, but I have a 1986 Ford E350 diesel waiting for me to fix it up. I have no idea how many miles (guessing about 280k) but what the hell, it's an IH diesel so the engine will probably outlast the frame... and certainly the transmission.
  - Report
  by douchebarge on May 11th, 2009
- WOW, mine is an 1986 E-150. they are not to difficult ot work on, and deisel is supposed to be even heartier then unleaded. i used to drive old ford vans with the diesel engines for AMR(they are 911 medical response for many major cities) and they often had 200,000-350,000 miles and ran fine if they got their oil changed on time. you my friend have a diamond in the rough
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 11th, 2009
- I even purchased the newest Star Office Site (Open Office) I like the old one so much. Probably didn't have to buy it, looking back. It really is excellent and starts much faster than 8 now.
  - Report
  by twonetis on July 7th, 2009
- StarOffice is based on OpenOffice but it does have a few things that OpenOffice doesn't, so it can be thought of as "OpenOffice Deluxe".
  Whether or not those added features are worth the (fairly reasonable) purchase price, well, you have to decide that for yourself.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on July 7th, 2009
- I agree with steering clear. I find it a little to basic and more of a headache then what it's worth. i don't mind kubuntu but I still prefer other distributions like Fedora and Opensuse.
  - Report
  by Raven on November 8th, 2009
- LOL, i have been reading this comment histoy for a few minutes now, and things have really changed in the time i have forgotten wbout this question.
  hey duochbarge: ever get your van running? i have a 1985 ford E-350 now(unleaded) and yep, the engine is in excellent shape, transmission is perfect: but the frame is falling apart. i am lead to belive based on recipts, records, and dates of them that my odometer has rolled 4 times, now reading 57,000. the previous owners all kept great record of maintence and it came with the van.
  Jerv: what have you been driving latly?
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on November 8th, 2009
- DB and I have been too busy to work on that van very much, and when we have had time, it's been raining. We had a lot of fun getting the fuel filter off though.
  
  As for me, I got the Caaarrrrgghhhh!!!!
  http://yfrog.com/j6sdc10029j
  It runs well for a car that is 25 years old and has 204K on the clock. The old Corollas are not the most powerful or quickest cars ever made (70HP, 0-60MPH in ~14.5 seconds) but they handle nicely even with bad struts.
  The Caaaaarrrggghh!!!! is nimble enough to squeeze through narrow gaps left by incompetent Seattle drivers that a regular car would lose paint if they attempted and I used it to haul 10-foot hunks of lumber.
  As a bonus, it passed it's final emissions test with flying colors, and by the next time it would be due (2011) it will be exempt due to it's age.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on November 8th, 2009
- awsome!!! nice paint job!!
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on November 8th, 2009
- There was also "gold" coins in the back and a stuffed crab in the rear window. That crab and the skull-and-bones air freshener are still there.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on November 8th, 2009
- sweet, they just dont make cars like they used to
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on November 8th, 2009
Add a comment...
- Like
- Report
20 comments | Post one | Permalink
by user deleted on May 7th, 2009
Yup, and I hate it. I've searched for nice linuxes for some time. I disqualified openSUSE, because it's tottaly wierd. Ubuntu had also one issues, wich pissed me off.

I currently have Slax linux (http://www.slax.org/) on my USB pen drive. It's small (150mb), boots even faster, has codecs for playing video and audio files. Very very easy to understand. And it supports a large ammount "of modules" aka add-on programs, wich are all free of course.

Btw, "needs less RAM" is false, because Ubuntu requires 512Mb of RAM, while you can run XP Pro on a machine with only 160Mb RAM.
"2 desktops" - erm, almost true. You can change the ammount of desktops up to 8 or even more.
And Ubuntu is not easier than Windows XP. Thus Slax is same easy as Windows. Windows was never hard to understand.
Comments
- nice critiqu, most of my bullitens were opinions, RAM may be my mistake but i have been running 8.04 on 256 very well. what was your issue with ubuntu? you said you had 1? i will look into slax.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 7th, 2009
- Yes, consumption of RAM. Also it didn't have codecs for playing my AVI files. Finding correct codecs is too hard for me on linux, unline on Windows - CCCP and you see all, and unline on Slax, where everything is also present.
  I basically wanted linux for repair situations, and Ubuntu won't run on my sis's PC with 170Mb RAM, while Slax has no issues with it. It's way too big and bloated..
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 7th, 2009
- Running XP Pro on only 160MB implies that you are not a well person. It *can* be done, but that doesn't mean it's a good idea.
  .
  I agree that SuSE is a bit quirky, and Ubuntu has perpetually annoyed me.
  Have you tried Puppy Linux, DSL, or Mandriva? I am curious what you think of them. I was thinking of the first two as pen-drive OSs and Mandriva as a possibile dual-boot for my tower.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 7th, 2009
- I was on Puppy, it was nice, but somewhat complex, but then I found Slax to be even better than Puppy, easyer, so I'll stay on that for now. If I had to choose from what linux distro to install on my HD, I'd choose Slax.
  DSL has really bad interface, I don't like it at all. A big nono.
  Currently I have no free HD for separate install for Mandriva, if you can point me to a Mandriva LiveCD/USB, then I'd gladly test it.
  About XP on 170MB RAM machine. Like I said, it's my sister's comp, not mine, and we don't have money to buy more RAM to it, and she aint complaining anyway.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 7th, 2009
- I haven't used Puppy Linux 4.2 "Deep Thought" version, but just version 4.2:
  It has everything you might need, video and audio file support, network needs to be setup everytime you run it on a new system, some interesting tools like GParted and other similar are present. Old look and feel. No way to add new software. "Deep Thought" seems to be a nicer version.
  http://www.puppylinux.org/downloads/official-releases/puppy-linux-42-deep-thought
  Now Slax doesn't need network to be setup everytime, it's automated. And one other plus is that it supports add-on applications, so you can install GParted and Wine and others if you want from the Slax's website module database.
  Also Slax interface is so nice comparing to Puppy.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 7th, 2009
- I've had install DVDs that offered up a boot menu with "Install.." and "Run Live" options. I'm not sure if Mandriva does that though. Let me see if I can find out...
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 7th, 2009
- I'll be waiting.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 8th, 2009
- Mandriva One ( http://www2.mandriva.com/linux/one/ ) is the Live CD version of Mandriva. I don't know how much they omit compared to Mandriva Free to get it to fit on one CD though, and why they couldn't go with a live DVD is beyond me. Still, there is probably enough there to give you a good idea of how Mandriva is.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 8th, 2009
- Well, tested it and I was not impressed that much. Looked just like Slax with KDE, but slower and bigger. One interesting thing I saw: the DVD version costs.. 0.o
  So I checked it out, or atleast tried to, but there was one thing I could not bypass anyhow, somekinda SecurityPolicy thingy was blocking my access to my HD, where my media files were stored, like wtf? I tried to search for the policy thingy, couldn't find it, and so, I couldn't test my media at all. And they ask money for that crap? 0.o
  Look and feel is like KDE melded with openSUSE, wich is actually somewhat bad, because it's really easy to mess up desktop at openSUSE without having any ability to recover it later without reinstall..
  Mandriva is currently like a Good Good commercial, but when you get it for yourself, you'll be really dissapointed and frustrated. That's no way to get more clients.
  I still like Slax more than any other linux.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 9th, 2009
- wow, i feel so enlightened. i have not ventured past ubuntu. however if i was impressed by it...i will look into the others listed here. thanks yall.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 9th, 2009
- You mean the "Mandriva Powerpack"? My understanding is that that has some non-free stuff like proprietary drivers and licensed codecs and stuff.
  Well, I guess I'll just have to wait for your review of Puppy.
  .
  BTW - I am a KDE guy, and part of my dislike for Ubuntu has to do with Gnome. Maybe Kubuntu is less annoying....
  Also, RAM is less of an issue for me; 2GB should be enough for most distros, and 3.4 GHz tends to make speed just happen with any half-decent code.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 9th, 2009
- Drivers and codecs cost? Wtf? Linux developers are having really hard time VS MS Windows.
  Not all people here are billionaires to afford 2GB RAM and 3.4Ghz CPU, not even me.. so everything that is small an compact is fine with me.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 10th, 2009
- I got my box for $50.
  Granted, it had no drives, but I had no need of my 1.8 GHz non-HT box with only 768 MB and no AGP slot after coming across that deal, so it was a simple matter of drive-swapping and loading a few new drivers for me.
  I've seen boxes almost as good as mine for under $150 on the shelf here in Seattle. If you shop wisely, things *can* be cheap. In fact, that 1.8 GHz system was free and the 3.4 GHz was only the second computer of seven that I ever paid for.
  .
  There are codecs and drivers that were reverse-engineered for free. However, companies have to abide by certain rules when it comes to distributing licensed stuff.
  However, reverse-engineered hacks are exempt from that. How do you think so many Linux users get their ATI drivers and codecs without forking over a dime?
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 10th, 2009
- I wish I had stores here like you have there. Since I live in Eurounion, everything costs 2-3x more than in America.
  That is quite funny, if searching for drivers for Windows, you don't have to pay nothing.. I haven't seen anyone pay.
  Like my neigbour told me, it's about somekinda patent rights, MS deals directly with that and paying fines is no problem for Bill, but Linux developers aren't that rich and so, the EUs have problems.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 10th, 2009
- I had a problem finding hardware when I lived in NH since there were not many techno-geeks. Fortunately, I am a gamer (PC and otherwise) and many gamers insist on the latest and greatest. My last two systems (the 1.8 GHz freebie and the discount 3.4 GHz) were from guys who played in my last Shadowrun campaign.
  Now that I live in Seattle, there are MMAANNYY places that offer cheap hardware; they are big on recycling here and this city has almost as many people as the entire state of NH, so there are many more geeks looking to dispose of hardware. Hell, I got my 20" CRT for free because a neighbor didn't want to pay the $20 disposal fee that CRT monitors and TVs incur.
  .
  Oh, and there is a third computer I actually paid for; I paid $350 for my Aspire One. The other one I paid for was $210 ($160+shipping) for a 1.1 GHz Athlon five years ago.
  $610 for seven computers plus another $290 for RAM upgrades, hard drives, burners.... not bad for the last decade :)
  Of course, there is a serious luck element there too.
  .
  Linux has free stuff out there if you know where to look too. IMAO, the Mandriva Powerpack is a rip because you could just get the free version and find the "extra" stuff yourself for free, but c'est la vie. Some people will pay for the convenience of having everything handed to them in an integrated package that requires zero-effort and zero-brains to install.
  In fact, I think that laziness has something to do with the fact that Windows is more popular than Linux and that more people use IE that Firefox. See my answer to this question ( http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/6430738 ) for more on that.
  Admit it; ANY Linux distro requires more setup and maintenance than plugging in the cords and hitting the power button every time you want to catch the latest meme on Youtube.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 10th, 2009
- Too bad we didn't cross paths in December or I would've let you have my old Dell (1.8 GHz P4, 768 MB RAM, integrated graphics, no AGP slot, a (wiped) 20 GB HD and an old CD burner that I had lying around because I used to have a lot of spare parts lying around before I moved) for shipping costs only.
  It wound up in the dumpster :(
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 10th, 2009
- So I tested PUPPY LINUX 4.2 "DEEP THOUGHT"...
  Comparing to 4.1.2 it has a new yellowish theme, and few gadgets, like a clock and a calendar.
  But the rest was the same(, one click to open files), still ancient looking interface, have to manually connect to internet.. The audio and video codecs were present. There are a lot of preinstalled tools - up to 3 tools for doing one thing. But still, there's no way to add new apps.
  One bad thing: If lets say you want to listen to music while other program is running, you can't! The music player will be terminated.
  The new LiveCD has a better performance. If it loads up and brings you to the desktop, then you're done, it will not waste your time communicating with the CD anymore to load an app from it.
  Oh well, a little babystep by Puppy.
  But, I still give my *Most Satisfying* award to Slax linux.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 10th, 2009
- Actually, I bet 1000 bucks, that even my mom with 0 IQ can handle Slax easly. Because it is so damn simple.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 10th, 2009
- My netbook has no CD drive, so live CDs are not an option there, but they are on my tower.
  .
  Listening to music while doing other things isn't terribly important to me. My apartment is too busy to really LISTEN to music anyways, so that isn't an issue for me. If it was, I would use my Sansa e280 to drown out the rest of the stuff going on here.
  No way to add new apps is a bit disappointing, but I was looking at Puppy as merely a pen-drive OS and not something for full dual-booting.
  Looks like I am going to have to try Slax though. I'll let you know what I think of it.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 10th, 2009
- Puppy can be installed on pen-drive and the same goes for Slax.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 10th, 2009
- I didn't point to listening to music, but to the situation, that Puppy might have a *one program at a time* limit.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 10th, 2009
- i will look into it. i can do a live boot right?
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 11th, 2009
- I have successfully run Ubuntu on a Pentium III with 128MB RAM. It was slow, but no slower than WinXP on the same machine.
  - Report
  by douchebarge on May 11th, 2009
- @Vertix: I'm intrigued by what you've said about Slax. I think I'll have to try it out.
  Notwithstanding my comments above, I'm not entirely pleased with Ubuntu and I'm always looking for something better ;)
  - Report
  by douchebarge on May 11th, 2009
- Since my laptop's HD broke, I am forced to live on Linuxes.. It took me 4x to actually setup Slax, so it won't crash or show queer protocol dieing errors.. Ugghh, I wish Puppy had WINE included, then I'd totally live on that, than on Slax.. but then again, small linuxes aren't supposed to support mass media..
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 16th, 2009
- Yeah, even my laptop's wireless isn't yet supported. But it is hard to build drivers for all *custom* machines.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 16th, 2009
- you should use a main-stream wirless card. d-link is pretty good about linix drivers.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 16th, 2009
- Just out of curiosity, how "custom" are netbooks? I mean, most run the same Intel 945 chipset, but how common is the Atheros AR5007EG wireless adapter? Is the Aspire One the only system that uses it or...?
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 16th, 2009
- https://help.ubuntu.com/community/AspireOne
  
  Looks like the Atheros chipset has its own driver (ath5k) and works "out of the box" under Ubuntu Netbook Remix. A few minor hardware driver issues otherwise.
  I'm thinking that even if the Aspire One is the only machine that uses the AR5000G that's probably enough to make it pretty "standard" ;)
  - Report
  by douchebarge on May 16th, 2009
- Omg, My Toshiba craptop has Intel 945 chipset and the exact same Atheros WLAN model 0.o
  Btw, Atheros is nothing but trouble as I read from Google. Atheros had a different name before, but they had to change it, because they made too damn bad HW and bankruptcy was behind the door. And that is a fact. My craptops Atheros WLAN works on its own will.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 16th, 2009
- So far, the only problem I've had with the wireless was due to the router and not the Atheros. Of course, that may be because I am using the OEM WinXP driver that came pre-installed. Or maybe I'm just lucky :)
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 16th, 2009
- Wow, that's interesting data. I hadn't heard of Atheros before now. I wasn't able to find any information about a previous name in their Wikipedia entry- do you remember what they were called before?
  - Report
  by douchebarge on May 16th, 2009
- I don't exactly remember it, but I remember it also started with letter A.
  I shall search for the article about Atheros company from Google. If it's still there.
  @ jerv, you indeed are a lucky one.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 17th, 2009
- A little searching has revealed that they were founded in 1998 and that their chips are used in products from many companies, including D-Link, Netgear, and Sony.
  They also have a habit of not sharing their code, meaning that Linux people have to reverse-engineer their stuff to write drivers, though they apparently recently hired a couple of Linux guys to release open-source drivers for their 802.11n stuff
  .
  Of course, that was just two minutes of digging....
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 17th, 2009
- I can't find the article so fast, but I remember I stupmed on it when I was searching for solution for my laptop...
  Meanwhile, I found an article that could help you to get atheros to work on Slax.
  http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies-archive.cfm/1109053.html
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 17th, 2009
- I've used openSUSE with Compiz, I had to start Compiz manually every time I started openSUSE... Nice graphics.. but, not impressed that much.
  Can linuxmint run from a pen-drive?
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 17th, 2009
- WEAH - Most do, but some don't and a few require a different installer (like Kunbuntu) as it's hard to fit both on a CD (not all distros come on DVD).
  And while it's not terribly difficult to switch over after installing, I find it less annoying to just install my environment of choice from day 1.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 17th, 2009
- Tell me, when installing it, does it require to install GRUB loader to internal HD? I don't have an internal HD...
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 18th, 2009
- Good luck!
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 18th, 2009
- So I got Compiz Fusion for my Slax, activated half of the things and works great, and it doesn't get slow like it got on openSUSE 0.o
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 18th, 2009
- One thing I could not figure out, how do I get the effect of having the ability to fold the window? Like I grab from corner and then I can like fold it?
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 18th, 2009
- I'm doing a more research on Puppy..
  Comes out it is possible to install something new on Puppy..
  Like WINE:
  http://www.puppylinux.org/wiki/software-applications/utilities/wine
  
  I shall try to get my favorite apps on Puppy...
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 19th, 2009
- I've been twiddling with Slax booting from a USB Flash drive and running it from RAM. Trying to figure out how to make things persistent as I am a little tired of having to log into my router manually and then open a console so I can get an IP address.
  Probably something I just haven't found yet...
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 20th, 2009
- Do you have a static IP or dynamic? I'm currently running it from USB.
  Why do you have to log in into your router?
  I have LAN cable connection, at the first time it was hard to understand how to connect, but then I got it. There's an icon on the desktop, named "connect", click on it, then click on the icon, which has a name "internet by network or wireless LAN...". Then it shows you your Ethernet adapter. Select interface by clicking on the interface's name button (eth0 in my case). Then comes "configure network interface..." window, press "Test ...", if it's successful then press "Auto DHCP" (There's also the "Static IP" option in case you don't have a DHCP server). Now it should say either success or failure, click on "Yes" to save config and then "Done". Since you have it on your USB, then click on "save" button on the desktop... That is if you have just a cable connection with no login required. But I do not know with what devices are you playing there.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 20th, 2009
- Dynamic; assigned by DHCP.
  .
  My router does not broadcast it's SSID, so it won't auto-detect my network. I configured Widows to log on to that router whenever it is within range even when it is not broadcasting, but I see no similar option in Slax (yet).
  .
  If I go into the wifi mananger and type in the name of my router, I connect, but I don't get an IP address (and cannot use my browser) until I open a console and type "dhcpcd wlan0".
  When I do it that way, it connects fully and if 100% functional before my finger leaves the ENTER key after typing that into the console.
  It's an Acer Aspire One with an Atheros AR5007EG, but Slax (apparently) has the drivers for it. Given that I have only tooled around with it for a couple of hours so far, I think that my issues are more of a PEBKAC error than anything else ;)
  .
  I will give that a try and let you know how it works out. Would it work better if I actually run from USB instead of loading into RAM, at least until I have it fully configured?
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 20th, 2009
- Ahh oops, I thought you were talkin about Puppy xD
  So it's Slax you are talking about, lol.
  .
  Sadly I do not have any open wireless places here, I'm using cable only.
  .
  Well, I had to quit using Slax, because it has some weird issues with my laptop or something. Installed a module, like OpenOffice, runs fine for the first time, but after next boot, it doesn't want to start up and the same thing has happened with many programs. It's too damn unstable on my machine. The developers say that I should resetup it all again, but I had done that like 3 times already before. Slax is just too damn unstable, generates random errors whenever it can :/
  .
  So, I'm forced to live on Puppy now, Until I test Linux Mint 6 and new Vixta Aero 3D...
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 20th, 2009
- I'm interested in those too. I still haven't chosen a distro; still shopping around.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 20th, 2009
- UPDATE:
  Puppy = failsauce
  Well, at least on my system. Slax managed to auot-configure my Atheros while Puppy not only failed to do so but didn't even have the modules to load manually. That and an inability to use "tap to click" on my touchpad (something Slax *did* allow makes me want to look elsewhere.
  Puppy seemed to be decent overall... but not for me.
  Yet another case of "your mileage may vary".
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 22nd, 2009
- Erm, tap to click problem can be solved by learning to use Puppy's control panel! xD
  Start menu > Setup > Puppy Control Panel > Keybd/Mouse > Choose type of mouse... > Enable touchpad tapping... and finally OK. :)
  Well, yeah, Puppy's wireless aint also fully working..
  I'm planning to use Puppy mainly as a Tool OS not for everyday usage. Btw, I noticed that Wine for Puppy is very well developed, while Slax's Wine was so useless.
  Today I will also test Linux Mint 6 and Vixta Aero 3D..
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 22nd, 2009
- Hey Vertix, this is a bit of a dumb question, but:
  When you were using Slax, were you doing the "copy to RAM" option?
  This will prevent anything (installed modules, saved files, configuration data) from persisting- it will all be wiped out when you shut down or reboot.
  Probably there is an option to create a persistent directory or partition on one or more devices on the computer, but I don't know for sure not having explored Slax myself (going by the way Knoppix, DSL, et al. work).
  I looked up Vixta on the Web but I'm reluctant to mess with it due to the lack of information available. I hope to hear what you think of it.
  - Report
  by douchebarge on May 22nd, 2009
- Well first I used the first boot option, which allowed me to save data.
  Then after some time, something went wrong, again, for the third time already..
  And I couldn't start it anymore without using the "always fresh" option...
  (http://picandocodigo.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/slax-boot-options.jpg)
  People who also had that problem, couldn't resolve it. Slax developers say only: "just reinstall it".
  Vixta is a work from just one guy, who isn't even a linux pro.
  Testing...
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 22nd, 2009
- The "tap to click" was an annoyance, but I figured that somewhere there was a control panel setting for that.
  However, the lack of a working driver for the Atheros was a deal-killer. If I can't connect to our LAN so I can read from my tower's optical drive or download drivers/packages from the 'net then that is almost as big a fail as not booting in the first place considering my intended use.
  Unless/until I find one (which may require a bit of digging), I am putting Puppy in the "also ran" category and back burnering it. The way our network is set up and the nature of my main system effectively means that without the wifi up and running, my main system is effectively neutered and that is unacceptable.
  .
  It's sad, really, because Puppy seems otherwise great. I would love to mess around with it some more. Maybe download a few pack... umm... err... yeah.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 22nd, 2009
- Well, yeah as sb already said, small linuxes have their limits.
  .
  Vixta Aero 3D has been upgraded to useless trash. If the previous version were a bit unstable, then the new version doesn't even run from USB device.
  .
  I see that Linux Mint 6 is as simple as Slax, but I can not fully test it. I want to somehow install it on my USB device. The instructions at http://www.pendrivelinux.com/linux-mint-6-flash-drive-install-via-cd/ don't help. Maybe I should let that program take the write the contents of ISO to pen-drive instead of using the CD as source?
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 22nd, 2009
- That's really wierd.. I can't get this to work. :/ Wierd...
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 22nd, 2009
- Personally, I use this ( http://unetbootin.sourceforge.net/ ) to "burn" ISOs to my little keychain. Of course, I am burning from downloaded ISO files instead of a CD drive...
  .
  Your mileage may vary, but it works for me.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 22nd, 2009
- Vertix - you *might* want to look into that as it has built-in support for downloading many distros, including Mint. If nothing else, it's something new.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 22nd, 2009
- Ahh, you did use the copy ISO to USB option, lol. I'm like mad here trying to install CD to USB. xD
  .
  Yeah, I read about that tool too jerv.
  But first I shall actually download that Mint's ISO and try with usb creator, if it still doesn't work, then I'll have to figure out how to get unetbootin on something to work an use that.
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 22nd, 2009
- How do I do that? I shall check what tools does Mint have..
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 23rd, 2009
- Damn that software manager! Ran it, pressed the refresh button, and then over an hour of waiting until it completes downloading the damn 20Tb screenshots and then.. finally, what do I get? Nothing, nada, 0! Damn. It worked when I ran it the first time... why not now..
  I shall better download the ISO... >.>
  Unless somebody can give me a direct dl of a CD image grabber for Mint...
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 23rd, 2009
- I finally found out what the hell was wrong: it was my shitty 16 gig Sandisk U3 pen-drive! It somewhy didn't allow me to boot (probably due to conflict with pen-drive's separate integrated U3 crap ROM, which can not be destroyed). Slax and Vixta booted fine from it, but Mint (and Puppy) can't. So finally I installed it on my vacant 1Gb pen-drive and it works fine, thus I don't have much memory to live in... I wish there was a way to install Mint on USB hard disk instead...
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 23rd, 2009
- One question, how do I save session? When ever I start Mint, it starts as new every time..
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 23rd, 2009
- Did you also replace the CFG file or did you skip that part?
  .
  When it starts up, the first thing I see is SYSLINUX and "boot:" prompt, do you get that too? I usually press enter there and then Mint boot screen comes up. Or must I type there something to get to the persistence mode?
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 23rd, 2009
- Ahh, after surfing the net I found out what I had to do. There's one thing that the tut says wrong - to actually save settings, you must put the custom CFG file to SYSLINUX folder.
  But remark, it saves only 90% of settings.
  .
  Linux Mint 6 is great! Best HW support I ever got from any linux. It's faster and even more simple, and stable.
  This time, thanks to Mints great HW support, I actually managed to get Compiz's 3D cube to work. :p
  I'm waiting for Mint 7..
  - Report
  by user deleted on May 23rd, 2009
- From what I've seen and heard, Mint is what Ubuntu was/is supposed to be.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 23rd, 2009
- So in your estimation, Mint is better than Ubuntu? I run Ubuntu 8.04 now but looking for something different.
  - Report
  by Riding the last galaxy on July 2nd, 2009
- New Linux Mint 7 "Gloria" is based on Ubuntu 9, not as well polished, and won't ever be as well polished as latest openSUSE, but unlike openSUSE, Linux Mint works at its full glory.
  Software repository is laaarge.. 0.o
  - Report
  by user deleted on July 2nd, 2009
- Ok, great thank you for the info. I may just give it a try.
  - Report
  by Riding the last galaxy on July 2nd, 2009
- I too like mint. Still using 6, but it cooks. A snap to install and surf with.
  - Report
  by twonetis on July 7th, 2009
Add a comment...
- Like
- Report
68 comments | Post one | Permalink
by qwerty on May 7th, 2009
ppl don't want to learn a new OS and ubuntu is junk, it doesn't work with half of the hardware on the market and it is geared more toward computer geeks then the average user and it has limited function. it doesn't do everything Windows or leopard does. it's more of a curiosity than a serious OS
Comments
- Not my take on it, but you are entitled to your opinion.
  However, I would like to see you in a steel cage match with either my roommate or Jane G.
  .
  BTW - what do you mean, "Doesn't do everything"? WINE can turn a Linux box into a decent Windoze box, and there are always VMs.
  If Linux isn't a serious operating system, then why do so many servers and government systems use it?
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 7th, 2009
- I personaly don't like it, you can site many examples of how great it is, but it just isn't widely used, maybe some day it will. ppl just don't like change. I think Mac's suck, but someone who has used one since their introduction isn't likely to go pc no matter how much better it may be for specific applications and VS vs. the question asked why it isn't used, and it is most likely because they don't want to risk change, I used it for awlile as a second OS, I just got bored with it Who's Jane G.?
  - Report
  by qwerty on May 7th, 2009
- Personally, Ubuntu isn't my favorite distro either. I don't know what is, but it isn't Ubuntu.
  .
  Jane G. is another Answerbagger who hangs out in the computer section and if a big fan of Ubuntu. You've probably seen her around and just not noticed.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 7th, 2009
- i LOVE ubuntu. i may not have tried enough other distros to give a valid opinion but i have messed with it very thoughly. when i upgraded my hard drive i gave it it's own partition. i am using it now for this. mabey i am just peeved at windows for being sluggish, unstable, and it's monopoly dispite horrible costomer service, gratuitious flaws, ect...but i strongly perfer ubuntu to either windows or mac.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 9th, 2009
- I can't blame you. Many do. There are also people who prefer strawberry ice cream over chocolate. I just happen to dislike Ubuntu.
  - Report
  by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on May 9th, 2009
- agreed, i now have 9.04, and have not even booted to windows on this new hard drive other then the origonal install and validation process. ubuntu just seems to work better.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 11th, 2009
- I've been using Ubuntu for about 5 years now, non-exclusively. I've also used Slackware, DSL, SuSE, Redhat, Fedora, and Debian.
  Ubuntu works well enough for me that I've stuck with it, although I experience some annoyances with it, largely due to outdated and flaky hardware (I have 512MB RAM and can't increase it due to a physical flaw in the motherboard, etc).
  As far as Ubuntu (or other Unices) not being able to do what Windows does, a virtual machine fixes that problem along with many others that Windows causes.
  Also:
  Ubuntu can read and write Windows files; Windows cannot read UNIX files.
  Ubuntu (and almost all UNIX / Linux systems) comes with one or more compilers out of the box, and therefore can be made to do, not only anything Windows can do, but anything a computer can do. Limitations are those of the user, not those of the system.
  One big thing Ubuntu can't do that Windows can is be infected by Windows viruses, of course ;)
  - Report
  by douchebarge on May 12th, 2009
Add a comment...
- Like
- Report
7 comments | Post one | Permalink
by schmee2369 on May 7th, 2009
No. what do I do.
Comments
- i have windows and ubuntu on my computer and choose when it starts. i am upgrading my hard drive and not even bothing with windows anymore. ubuntu is more stable, faster, virus proof, essentially the perfect computer. it is made by the community for FREE. it can be downloaded for free just by looking into google. then co-installed without effecting windows so you can test it. most drivers(even wirless internet and graphics) are built in and every printer ever made is also pre-installed. so cool! i now hate windows, it is like building a house with a screw driver insted of a hammer.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 7th, 2009
- Alright cool. Thanx for the advice
  - Report
  by schmee2369 on May 7th, 2009
- if you need help installing or trouble shooting i check email more then AB, true.knowledge@yahoo.com be sure to get 9.04, the newest stable release.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on May 7th, 2009
- bet. thanx. I'll hit ya up if I need help.
  - Report
  by schmee2369 on May 7th, 2009
Add a comment...
- Like
- Report
4 comments | Post one | Permalink
by Riding the last galaxy on October 18th, 2009
Windows has dominated the market for so long and people have gotten "comfortable" with it even though it crashes on a regular basis. Vista was a disaster and Windows 7 is simply what Vista should have been. Bottom line, Windows is losing ground to Mac and Linux. Many or most people are resistant to change in regards to their computers or computer systems.

I have Ubuntu 9.04 installed on my 5 year old HP desktop. I have had no problems whatsoever. I can do anything with Linux that Windows does. People are afraid to try something new. I was one of them. Once I tried Ubuntu I made up my mind right then and there that I would not go back to Windblows and Internet Exploder.

Windows has so many security holes in it, that you can here the computer fan whistle through them when you boot it up. The biggest and most glaring problem with Windows is the "registry". What on earth was Microsoft thinking? They know that the security is a major problem yet they continue to produce it. Linux doesn't use a registry so security is a very small problem and if any holes open up, they are closed almost immediately with updates.

Linux on the other hand is far superior in the security department, than Windows ever thought of being.With Linux I have no need of an anti-virus program, an anti-spy ware program or a firewall even though it does come with a very good one, turned off by default.

Obviously I am not a computer expert in any way, shape, or form. I am simply relaying the experiences that I have had with Windows and Linux. My vote go's to Linux
Comments
- AWSOME!!! cool bit of info:
  recently there was a contest of 7,000 professional hackers.
  average time to comprmise windows: 58 seconds
  MAC: 17 hours
  ubuntu 8.10: never...not 1 could do it.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on October 18th, 2009
- I read about that online. That was a good bit of information to know. The way it looks, Linux will get even better as time go's on. Thank you for your comment. :)
  - Report
  by Riding the last galaxy on October 18th, 2009
Add a comment...
- Like
- Report
2 comments | Post one | Permalink
by Anonymous on July 5th, 2009
Linux most certainly has its place in the server world, but I just don't see the widespread transition to the desktop where it will be used by consumers. If anything, I see more folks making the swtich to Apple computers.

People want good technical support when they have a problem. Who do they call if they have a problem with their Ubuntu or Fedora desktop? Yes Linux has great online support, but you have to go online to read and educate yourself on how to use it. Most people at home don't have the time nor the patience to do so.

They want to call Dell, HP, or Apple for tech support. If that fails, then I suppose they would try the Geek Squad.
Comments
- ubuntu has comercial tech support if needed provided by canorciel(i know the name is mispelled, check wiki for the correct spelling) and ubuntu is simple to install or in fact dell/hp are both now providing it as an option to have pre-installed with drivers...ect comercially. AWSOME. but i cannot argue...apple will be the next big thing.
  - Report
  by duke.of.data on July 7th, 2009
- Dell and HP are providing it, but customers are just not buying. Many consumers were also not pleased with Linux running on their netbooks. If you want tech support for Linux, I'd have to go with some version of RedHat, but perhaps if Ubuntu becomes more popular they'll be a viable alternative in the commercial world.
  - Report
  by Anonymous on July 11th, 2009
Add a comment...
- Like
- Report
2 comments | Post one | Permalink

Question

I am curious why you think ubuntu is not as wide spread as it shoud be. it is free, has more drivers pre-installed then windows, boot quicker, runs faster, all software is free, it is easyier, 2 desktops, needs less RAM, ect...FREE! have you tried it?

Answers. 7 helpful answers below.

Comments

Comments

Comments

Comments

Comments

Comments

Comments

Did this answer your question? If not, then ask a new question or create a poll.

More Questions. Additional questions in this category.

Follow us on Facebook!

Related Ads

Related Questions

Has anyone tried the new Presto software by Scalix (Xandros) that supposedly would allow Windows XP or Vista to boot within seconds and not minutes? If you have tried it, how does it work for you?

I got a copy of Linux Mint 5 on CD. When I tried to install it, the program crashed as it was partitioning my disk. Now I cannot boot my original copy of Windows XP, and I cannot access my original partition! Any advice other than store-bought software?

When i try to dual boot vista and Linux and i make a portion space when I'm installing Linux do i press guided option most free space or manual?

Greetings! I have a "dual-boot" system (Half Windows XP Pro and half Ubuntu Linux). For some reason, I cannot access my "C" (Windows) drive from Linux. How can I correct this? (Yes, I'm a "newbie") THANK YOU in advance for your help! ^o^

Are the commercial Linux os such as Linspire5.0 that you have to pay for still considered "free" wares? Or do they have the same end-user's restrictions like Windows that limit installation of the os on only one computer?

Professionally Researched

How do I disable Windows Vista pre-installed virus protection software?

Does Windows have free fax software?

Is fusible web acid free?

Are GH Tunes Free?

Is Cross Fire free?

ANSWERBAG BUZZ

Answerbag.com
Your favorite Q&A site is on Facebook! Become a fan to connect with the ever-growing community of Answerbaggers, share your thoughts and find out what Answerbag's up to next!

Question

I am curious why you think ubuntu is not as wide spread as it shoud be. it is free, has more drivers pre-installed then windows, boot quicker, runs faster, all software is free, it is easyier, 2 desktops, needs less RAM, ect...FREE! have you tried it?

Answers. 7 helpful answers below.

Comments

Comments

Comments

Comments

Comments

Comments

Comments

Did this answer your question? If not, then ask a new question or create a poll.

More Questions. Additional questions in this category.

Follow us on Facebook!

Related Ads

Related Questions

Professionally Researched

ANSWERBAG BUZZ

Answerbag.com Your favorite Q&A site is on Facebook! Become a fan to connect with the ever-growing community of Answerbaggers, share your thoughts and find out what Answerbag's up to next!

Answerbag.com
Your favorite Q&A site is on Facebook! Become a fan to connect with the ever-growing community of Answerbaggers, share your thoughts and find out what Answerbag's up to next!