Ubuntu: Up and Running

Organization of This Book

The chapters in this book are carefully ordered so that different aspects of the operating system are fully introduced before moving on to the next step. To get the best results from this book, you are therefore recommended to read the chapters in sequence.

For example, to get you started, the first chapter introduces Ubuntu, explains its background, and explores the different parts that make up the operating system. Then, with introductions out of the way, the second chapter takes you straight into installing Ubuntu. The process is fully explained in simple terms with plenty of screen grabs to guide you.

After that, the next chapter shows how to configure Ubuntu to your computer, including setting up your keyboard, mouse, and monitor, and managing peripherals such as printers, sound cards, and webcams.

With your setup now configured, the next chapters introduce the Linux filesystem and how to use it, both with the desktop and via the command line. You are then shown how to install and remove programs with the easy-to-use built-in tools, as well as how to maintain your system and keep it secure.

The following two chapters then cover networking functions such as file and folder sharing and accessing the Internet.

By this time, you will have a solid understanding of Ubuntu, so the remaining chapters show you what you can do with it, such as using the OpenOffice.org office suite of programs, installing and playing games, connecting peripherals such as scanners ...