Ubuntu Linux - the universe of "open source" (free!) awaits you!
January 10, 2019
Ubuntu Linux - the universe of "open source" (free!) awaits you!
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Overall Satisfaction with Ubuntu Linux
Ubuntu Linux is an open source (free) operating system for desktops and laptops. It has the same purpose as Windows 10 and Apple's Mac OS. For desktop/laptop applications, Ubuntu Linux, for me offers superior performance to Windows 10 and offers huge cost savings when compared to making the leap into the "everything Apple" world. Apple's proprietary equipment is usually multitudes more expensive than laptops and desktops which are designed to run Windows, and any Windows computer can be re-configured to run Ubuntu Linux. Ubuntu Linux add-on application programs are also open source (free) and are at least equally as functional (and often times superior) to their Windows counterparts. Most of the work products generated by Ubuntu Linux software are also fully compatible with Windows 10 or Apple/Mac users.
- Ubuntu Linux is extremely resource efficient in using a desktop/laptop system's resources, particularly as compared to my experiences with any Windows product. (Its architecture is the foundation for Chromebooks as well as the Android operating system for smartphones). Eliminating the loading and processing hang-ups I commonly experienced with Windows is a huge plus.
- The "open source" universe is hugely appealing, both because of high quality, free and compatible software, but also because it allows such a high level of customization. Open source systems and software means no "bloatware," no intrusive programs popping up where you don't want them, and the freedom to purchase outside of a particular vendor.
- The quality of the operating system is truly a "gold standard" to me. It works, and, unlike Windows, doesn't have the "back door" security vulnerabilities Windows is constantly trying to patch.
- Although it's continually improving, Ubuntu Linux doesn't come preloaded on equipment (generally) and it takes some know how to set it up, configure and function with it.
- Generally, the open source software which runs on Ubuntu Linux offers really good compatibility with Windows or Mac products, but, sometimes it just doesn't work, and you're on your own to research what's going on. There are a lot of forums for Ubuntu Linux users, but, it can be frustrating.
- Traditional "support" for Ubuntu Linux is non-existent - because it is open source (and free!), there is no online "team" to chat with or call when you're having a tech meltdown. I think this is an inherent trade-off in the "for profit" and "open source" model - again, there are lots of forums, and users who've been very generous with their time is helping people sort things out, but it is not a system for anyone not willing to invest some time in the learning curve.
- What's the ROI on free? Technically, infinite - not having to pay for software is a huge deal for a small company.
- Ubuntu Linux extends the lifecycle of equipment - because it's so resource efficient, you don't constantly need to upgrade because the operating system is consuming so much RAM. In fact, you can rejuvenate older Windows equipment which can no longer run effectively by replacing Windows with Ubuntu Linux.
- On the negative side, a user can get bogged down with technical difficulties, taking time away from more productive activities. It's a great solution for those comfortable and willing to learn new technology (or, if there's a tech-savvy, experienced, "go to" in the company).
We had considered the Windows Server environment, particularly for networking. However, as mentioned previously, upfront costs (particularly for software), lag times in operating performance, system hang-ups, so-so software performance, and unexpected bugs and shutdowns were huge negatives for us. Other than a time commitment to the learning curve, Ubuntu Linux offers a far superior, and extremely cost-efficient, alternative.