Are you ready for a change? Welcome to the new world!
Linux is a bold new step in taking control of your computer and internet experience. If you’re looking for a better way to handle the day-to-day computing needs of your business or want to provide safer and more enjoyable internet surfing for your children, then Linux is a fantastic choice.
PCLinuxOS is one of the world’s newest and leading providers of a the Desktop Linux Solution. With a small but dedicated development team, PClinuxOS delivers Desktop Ready Software that harnesses the power of the Open Source Community.
So you’re asking “What is Linux?” Quite simply Linux is a complete and viable operating system for your computer, be it a tower, laptop, or server. It is a free Unix-type operating system originally created by Linus Torvalds with the assistance of developers from around the world. Developed under the GNU General Public License, the source code for Linux is freely available to everyone. If you want a more in-depth explanation click here.
Imagine being able to surf the web freely without worry of viruses, trojan horses, annoying pop-ups, or threats from hackers. Because of the way Linux is designed, unless you’re signed on as “root”, ie. administrator, nothing can be installed to your computer. This means that there won’t be any funky programs installed without you knowing it. And as for viruses, well the last time there was a Linux virus was back in the 90’s. More on Linux security here.
Now for some details… You might be asking yourself “What’s in it for me?”. How about the fact that it’s FREE! You don’t have to pay a single dime for it. While there are distributions of Linux that charge a fee in order to use their software, PCLinuxOS is completely free. Not only is the operating system free, but so are the 1000’s applications available for you to use. Everything from chat, e-mail, media players, office software, browsers, graphics programs, mp3 players, financial applications, and games. And guess what, you’ll never have to buy anti-virus software, expensive firewall programs or registry cleaners again.
Here are some examples of the the incredible software that comes with PCLinuxOS:
Open Office
This suite of programs can easily handle your needs for word processing, spreasheets, and presentations.
Firefox
A web browser that will revolutionize the way you use the internet. Firefox provides speed and security when venturing into cyberspace. You can forget about annoying pop-ups and dull browser interface with this lean, mean, surfin machine.
Konqueror
The workhorse of Linux as well as the jack of all trades. Konqueror is a file manager, web browser, and a universal viewing application. An incredibly powerful application that is extremely easy to use.
K3b
Do you have tons of mp3’s and video files that you routinely share with friends and family? Whether you need a CD for the drive home or a DVD of last year’s family picnic, K3b makes burning so fast and easy, you’ll wonder why you ever spent so much money on those other software programs.
KDE and GNOME
If you’re like me, having a desktop that is not only easy to navigate but also pleasing to the eye is important. These two window managers will knock your socks off and you won’t have to buy any programs off the internet to “hack” your system in order to change the way it looks. Click on either of the icons to the left and see just how just how dynamic and visually stunning your computer will look.
I’ve only just scratched the surface of the power and usability that PCLinuxOS provides. And I’m sure you have many more questions about how Linux can improve your computer. Our user forum is the best place to find the answers you need. The friendly and caring staff at Lobby4Linux.com will make you feel right at home and provide answers to your questions in a way that will remind you of your favorite grade school teacher.
After doing some more looking around and asking question, I think you’ll agree that PCLinuxOS is an excellent choice when it comes to choosing an operating system. If you’d like to give it a try, there are instructions on how to download and burn a CD here.
Contact me! If you have questions or concerns about how PCLinuxOS can revolutionize the way you use your computer. I’m here to assist you with whatever questions you may have about Linux. And if I don’t know the answer, I’ll find it or introduce you to another PCLinuxOS user who does.
Do you live in the Denver, CO area? Need help with your Linux installation? No problem! As part of our community outreach, Lobby4Linux has instituted a program called Friends4Friends. Our goal is to bring Linux to the world. Do you love BBQ? Our next meetup with be at Still Smokin BBQ Food Truck!