Ubuntu for Non-Geeks: A Pain-Free, Project-Based, Get-Things-Done Guidebook, 2/e (Paperback)

Description

This newbie’s guide to Ubuntu – now updated for Ubuntu 7.04 (Feisty Fawn), the latest Ubuntu release, which puts the spotlight on multimedia enablement and desktop effects – lets readers learn by doing. Using immersion-learning techniques favored by language courses, step-by-step projects build upon earlier tutorial concepts, stimulating the brain and increasing the reader’s understanding.

Ubuntu for Non-Geeks, 2nd Edition covers all the topics likely to be of interest to an average desktop user. Inside, you'll learn to:

• Download and install free applications, games, and utilities
• Connect to the Internet and wireless networks
• Configure your hardware, including printers, scanners, and removable storage devices
• Watch DVDs, listen to music, and even sync your iPod
• Download photos and videos from your digital camera, then edit and share them
• Tackle more advanced tasks as soon as you’re ready

Full of tips, tricks, and helpful pointers, Ubuntu for Non-Geeks, 2nd Edition is a hands-on, project-based, take-it slow guidebook intended for those interested in—but nervous about—switching to the Linux operating system. Step-by-step projects build upon earlier tutorial concepts, helping you absorb and apply what you've learned.

Included is a companion CD that lets you try out Ubuntu 7.04 (Feisty Fawn) without making any changes to your computer and then install it when you're ready.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Becoming a Penguinista—Welcome to the World of Linux
Chapter 2: Wading and Diving—Running and (if you like) Installing Ubuntu
Chapter 3: A New Place to Call Home—Getting to Know the Desktop
Chapter 4: More than Webbed Feet—The Internet, Linux Style
Chapter 5: Rounding Out the Bird—Downloading, Installing, and Updating Programs the Easy Way
Chapter 6: A Tidy Nest—File and Disk Handling in Ubuntu
Chapter 7: Dressing Up the Bird—Customizing the Look and Feel of Your System
Chapter 8: Simple Kitten Ways—Getting to Know the Linux Terminal and Command Line
Chapter 9: Automatix and Not So Automatix—More Ways to Install Programs
Chapter 10: Gutenbird—Setting Up and Using Your Printer and Scanner
Chapter 11: Font Feathered Frenzy—Adding New Fonts to Your System
Chapter 12: Polyglot Penguins—Linux Speaks Your Language
Chapter 13: Penguins Back at Work—Getting Down to Business in Linux
Chapter 14: Brush-Wielding Penguins—Linux Does Art
Chapter 15: Tux Rocks—Music à la Linux
Chapter 16: Pluggin' in the Penguin—Ubuntu and Your iPod™
Chapter 17: Couch Penguins—Video and DVD Playback in Ubuntu
Chapter 18: Defending the Nest—Security
Appendix A: Ubuntu Desktop CDs for AMD64 Users
Appendix B: Resources