looking for an alternative to Microsoft Operating Systems for your PC? This handout provides an overview from the April TechComm meeting on using Ubuntu Linux as an alternative

1. STCC Technology Committee April 19, 2012
Comparison
Microsoft Linux
Operating System XP Professional Windows 7 Professional Ubuntu 11.04
$ $
Cost 299.95 (Amazon) 249.95 (Amazon) FREE
System Requirements
Processor 233 MHz 1 GHz 1 GHz, Pentium 4
RAM 64 MB minimum, 1 GB minimum, 64 MB minimum,
128 MB recommended 2GB recommended 256-512 MB recommended
HDD Space 1.5 GB 16-20 GB 5 GB
What is an operating system?
An operating system is what makes your computer work. The core program of any computer, it's
designed to run all your programs and manage all your hardware and software. Examples of operating
systems include Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X , Android, Ubuntu.
What is Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is a commercially sponsored Debian-derived Linux distribution that focuses on usability, a
regular 6-month release cycle, and a commitment to at least 18 months of security updates for every
release. Additionally, every 2 years, there is a “Long Term Support” release with a commitment to
security updates for at least 36 months.
Super-fast, easy to use and free, the Ubuntu operating system powers millions of desktops, netbooks
and servers around the world. Ubuntu does everything you need it to. It'll work with your existing PC
files, printers, cameras and MP3 players. And it comes with thousands of free apps.
How does Ubuntu compare to my system?
With Ubuntu, you can do everything you can do with other operating systems. But faster. And for free!
How can it be free?
Ubuntu is, and always will be, absolutely free. Created by the best open-source experts from all over the
world, Ubuntu is available in 24 languages and ready for download today.
What is Open Source?
Open source is collective power in action. The power of a worldwide community of highly skilled experts
that build, share and improve the very latest software together - then make it available to everyone.
The open-source community is thriving and today boasts some of the best brains in the business. The
aim has not changed: free systems and software should be available to everybody, wherever they are.
How often are updates released?
Updates are constantly released with an Update Manager much like Microsoft Updates, but the
Operating System itself is on a 6 month release cycle.
Do I need to worry about viruses?
You can surf in safety with Ubuntu – confident that your files and data will stay protected. A built-in
firewall and virus protection come as standard. And if a potential threat appears, we provide automatic
updates which you can install in a single click. You get added security with AppArmor, which protects
your important applications so attackers can’t access your system. And thanks to Firefox and gnome-
keyring, Ubuntu helps you keep your private information private. So whether it’s accessing your bank
account or sharing sensitive data with friends or colleagues, you’ll have peace of mind when you need it
the most.

2. STCC Technology Committee April 19, 2012
Program Alternatives – Discussed In-Depth next month (May)
 MS Office Suite = LibreOffice/Open Office/Google Docs & Applications
 Thunderbird email, Google Calendar plug-in
 Adobe Photoshop = Gimp.org / Pixlr.com
 QuickBooks = no alternative (the one reason Art uses Windows)
 Adobe pdf alternatives
 Dropbox = online file sharing
Sources:
Ubuntu
http://www.ubuntu.com/
http://www.ubuntu.com/project/about-ubuntu
http://www.ubuntu.com/ubuntu/why-use-ubuntu
Ubuntu System Requirements
https://help.ubuntu.com/11.04/installation-guide/i386/minimum-hardware-reqts.html
Windows 7 System Requirements
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/products/system-requirements
Windows XP System Requirements
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314865
STCC Technology Committee April & May Meetings
Frustrated with your computer? Dread having to upgrade or buy a new computer? Or are you
just looking to save money on your computers and business software?
The April and May St. Charles County Chambers of Commerce Technology Committee
meetings just might help you save $500-$1000 per employee or more!
Learn about cost effective and free alternatives to Microsoft Products, Adobe Photoshop, Anti-
Virus Software, and more – from the operating system to business applications! Learn about
solutions like:
 Ubuntu, which provides a free alternative operating system to Microsoft Windows. It's
easy to use, comes with thousands of applications, and doesn’t require additional
security software. And it works with your existing files, printers, cameras and more!
 OpenOffice, which provides a free solution to Microsoft office and includes word
processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
 Google Docs and Google Applications for word processing, calendars, spreadsheets,
presentations, task management, and more
 Gimp.org and Pixlr.com, free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop
 Dropbox and other online file sharing solutions
 These solutions can run on less expensive and older PCs too!
Our April Meeting will focus on the operating system and computer requirements.
Our May Meeting will focus on business applications and business productivity tools.
Come check it out – you might just learn something. And you’ll probably save some money too!