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Try or Install
You can see what Linux looks like on your computer in a number of easy ways.
Try out: The Live CD
Using a Live CD version of Linux--that is, a Linux that runs from a CD and is not installed onto your computer--is a good way to "try before you buy."
No Risk
Using a live CD means that Linux will be running on your computer without installing anything. It's a risk-less way to try and see by yourself what Linux is.
When running on a live CD, your computer uses solely the CD-ROM to work (without accessing the hard drive inside). You can launch all of the default programs, edit documents, and browse the web.
Since it is only designed as a trial mode, it is a little slow (it will take you five minutes to boot up, and programs launch somewhat slowly). If you proceed to install, the system will go much faster.
What You Need
To use a live CD, you need a little bit of curiosity and fifteen minutes of free time, but no advanced knowledge in computing. If you feel confident simply using Windows from time to time, then this is within your reach.
Installing With Dual Boot
If you're not quite ready to cut the cord from Windows, you can install both operating systems on one computer.
Choose at Start-Up
It is possible to install GNU/Linux along with Windows. This means that upon start-up, you will be greeted with a screen allowing you to boot into the operating system you prefer.
Setting up a dual-boot can be helpful if you need time to abandon restrictive software. It is not difficult to set-up, though erasing Windows altogether is even easier.
What You Need
Installing Linux on your computer will take you less than 30 minutes. It is not an obvious step for complete beginners, but if you use computers on a daily basis this is very likely within your reach. If you have already re-installed Windows on your computer, rest assured that installing Linux is no harder.
Get the CDs
For the distributions recommend in this article, the live CD is the same as the installation CD.
Ubuntu
Go download the Ubuntu CD You can download an iso image (rather large file) and then burn it to a CD.
Order an Ubuntu CD You can also order a CD that will be shipped to your home at no cost. Note that delivery can take up to ten weeks.
Fedora
Download the Fedora DVD or CD The Fedora live CD also enables installation. Alternatively, you can download the DVD, which cannot act as live CD but permits speedier installation.
Free Software Pre-Installed
Not all computers are shipped with Windows. If you do not wish to make the install yourself, or are in need of new hardware, you can get a laptop or a desktop pre-installed with GNU/Linux.
There is a list of vendors who pre-install Linux at LinuxPreloaded.com for more information.
 This article was donated to Linux.com courtesy of GetGNULinux.org, a project of the GNU/Linux Matters non-profit organization. GNU/Linux Matters has generously donated the content of GetGNULinux.org to Linux.com.
Comments
Subscribe to Comments Feedmanuel enguita torres Said:
como puedo configurar el modem para conectarme en internet,con ubuntu-11,10. gracias