So how do you do it? How do you ditch the Redmond behemoth? Well it starts with what is called a 'live cd'. This live cd is a linux preview and install disc all rolled into one. You can boot it straight from your cd rom and check out the free world of Ubuntu in a real time environment. You can play around, test applications and much more....after playing around for a while, if your like a great many people out there, you will realize that this FREE o/s is for you!

So the next step? Install the o/s onto your computer...it's simple really, and with each new version (Ubuntu releases NEW versions every 6 months....none of this waiting for years for a new o/s crap) it just keeps getting easier and easier to do. So go ahead and click on that icon on the desktop that says 'INSTALL'

 It's pretty self explanatory, the one main choice to make at this point is: to dual boot or not to dual boot. If you choose to dual boot (have it so you can run both Ubuntu and some other o/s [i.e. Windows]) then you must read carefully the section on partitioning your hard drive. Make sure you give room for both o/s'es to reside on your hard drive. I suggest giving at least half to the o/s you think will be your primary one. Once you've decided that your good to go....sit back and enjoy, it will install WAY quicker then windows ever has....

Now you're done....now I would suggest reading the Ubuntu forums and Ubuntu guide (on wiki) Explore, get acquainted with free alternatives to expensive Windows world software. If your like me, you'll wonder why it took you so long to switch.... 

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