Hi, I have a Dell laptop on the way with Ubuntu Linux version 7.10 pre-installed. This will be my first experience with Linux, having used some version of Windows for the past 13 years. I have several questions: 1) I have a Time Warner Cable broadband connection as well as a Verizon DSL connection. I may just use the Verizon DSL for my laptop. I was thinking about getting a wireless router. Any recommended ones? Any ones to steer clear of? Do I have to get anything special because it's linux or can I get a router that works for Windows also? 2) I've read where I don't need to get any type of anti virus software, is that true? What about a firewall? I think my DSL modem has a built in firewall (plus I'll be using a wireless router) so is that good enough for starters? Thanks for any assistance.

Hi Chimmer, I've had pretty good luck with the Linksys line of wireless routers, though a brief search on Google will turn up many additional recommendations. As for anti-virus software: Linux is immune to a lot of the Windows-based attacks because those specifically target vulnerabilities in software that is not used in Linux. Also, if you are careful to not operate as root while on the net, then even if there is a Linux-targeted attack, it will be restricted to your user account. Just be careful when downloading and installing unknown software. Your firewall needs really depend on what you plan to do with your laptop. I use my mobile machines strictly as clients, so an encrypted wireless signal (generally available via the router) and encrypted transmissions (ssh) are sufficient for me.

Thanks for the reply. While I was waiting for my laptop, I downloaded Ubuntu and burnt an image to CD. I then loaded it on my current PC - WinXP SP2 and I can't believe how easy it went. Automatically partitioned it and now I can boot into WinXP or Ubuntu. Everything in Ubuntu works! Unbelievable that I've had zero problems with it so far. I like what I see, I'm surprised that Ubuntu hasn't gained more popularity.