Exploring the JDS Linux Desktop

Chapter 2. Essential JDS

Most people can quickly get going with the Java Desktop System, knowing intuitively how to navigate the system and handle its windows. The habits you learned on other computers can usually guide you. But it helps to know the details of window, file, and application handling on JDS, so you can use the system more efficiently when performing complex tasks.

The basics of using a personal computer at home and at work include knowing how to:

• Start and stop your system correctly

• Initiate and terminate programs

• Manage windows

• Access system settings and preferences

• Manage different users

• Recognize and access files and folders

Starting JDS

Let’s begin by getting acquainted with some terms you will use on a regular basis:

Boot

Computer start-up, during which time the computer loads the operating system and the configuration files into memory.

Authenticate

Prove your identity through your user name and password so that your computer or network can give you access to files and services.

Log on

Enter your system or attach to a network.

Ending a session

Closing a desktop session, without turning off the computer.

Shutting down

Ending the operating system’s active state in such a way that all background programs close cleanly and data is saved prior to powering down the hardware.

Terminal

A text window which allows one to communicate with the computer through simple commands.

Directories

Collections of files. The terms folder and directory can be used interchangeably.

Booting and Logging In ...