Ubuntu 13.04

Fast, free and incredibly easy to use, the Ubuntu operating system powers millions of desktop PCs, laptops and servers around the world.

Ubuntu will work with your existing PC files, printers, cameras, music players and smartphones - and it comes with thousands of free apps.

Enjoy the simplicity of Ubuntu's stylish, intuitive interface. Fast, secure and with thousands of apps to choose from, Ubuntu gives you a clean and streamlined experience that you can really make your own.

Secure

You can surf in safety with Ubuntu — confident that your files and data will stay protected. A built-in firewall and virus protection are available. And if a potential threat appears, we provide automatic updates which you can install in a single click. You get added security with AppArmor, which protects your important applications so attackers can’t access your system. And thanks to Firefox and gnome-keyring, Ubuntu helps you keep your private information private. So whether it’s accessing your bank account or sharing sensitive data with friends or colleagues, you’ll have peace of mind when you need it the most.

• Automatic security updates
• Defence against viruses
• Anti-phishing
• File encryption
• Password protection
• Built with security in mind

Compatible

Ubuntu works brilliantly with a range of devices. Simply plug in your MP3 player, camera or printer and you’ll be up and running straight away. No installation CDs. No fuss. And it’s compatible with Windows too! So you can open, edit and share Microsoft Office documents stress-free.

Fast

Ubuntu loads quickly on any computer, but it's super-fast on newer machines. With no unnecessary programs and trial software slowing things down, booting up and opening a browser takes seconds. Unlike other operating systems that leave you staring at the screen, waiting to get online. And Ubuntu won’t grow sluggish over time. It’s fast. And it stays fast.

Accessible

Accessibility is central to the Ubuntu philosophy. We believe that computing is for everyone regardless of nationality, race, gender or disability. Fully translated into over 40 languages, Ubuntu also includes essential assistive technologies, which are, of course, completely free.

What's New:

Ubuntu 12.10 Quantal Quetzal is built to take advantage of the very latest technologies, but it should work on most desktops, laptops and netbooks too.

Web apps
If you use web applications like Facebook, Gmail or Flickr, you’re in for a treat. You can now pin them to the Launcher on the Ubuntu desktop, so you can launch them with a single click. No more starting a browser, clicking on a bookmark and then logging in. Just go straight into the app, as if it was installed on your computer.

This is the Launcher. Web Apps, like Amazon, Facebook and the Ubuntu One Music Store, appear here for easy access.

Online search
In Ubuntu, the Dash has always let you search your computer for your files, photos and videos. But now it does more than just search your computer - it can search all your online accounts too. So, once you’ve saved the login details in the ‘Online Accounts’ function, you can expect to see your Flickr photos, Google Drive documents and more in your search results, alongside the files on your computer.

This is the search bar in the Dash. Type your search terms in here and Ubuntu will search your computer and your online accounts for the files you’re looking for.

Dash previews
Ubuntu aims to take the effort out of everything. Now, you can preview your search results in the Dash to see more options, without having to open more windows. Preview an album in the Ubuntu One Music Store and you’ll get the option to play tracks straight from the preview. And when you preview an app in the Ubuntu Software Centre, you can install it with just one more click.

Install Instructions:

• Using a CD?
  • It’s easy to install Ubuntu from a CD. Here’s what you need to do:
  • Put the Ubuntu CD into the CD/DVD-drive.
  • Restart your computer. You should see a welcome screen prompting you to choose your language and giving you the option to install Ubuntu or try it from the CD.
  • If you don't get this menu, read the booting from the CD guide for more information.
• Using a USB drive?
  • Most newer computers can boot from USB. You should see a welcome screen prompting you to choose your language and giving you the option to install Ubuntu or try it from the CD.
  • If your computer doesn’t automatically do so, you might need to press the F12 key to bring up the boot menu, but be careful not to hold it down - that can cause an error message.
• Prepare to install Ubuntu
  • We recommend you plug your computer into a power source
  • You should also make sure you have enough space on your computer to install Ubuntu
  • We advise you to select Download updates while installing and Install this third-party software now
  • You should also stay connected to the internet so you can get the latest updates while you install Ubuntu
  • If you're not connected to the internet, we'll help you set up wireless at the next step
• Set up wireless
  • If you are not connected to the internet, you will be asked to select a wireless network, if available. We advise you to connect during the installation so we can ensure your machine is up to date. So, if you set up your wireless network at this point, it’s worth then clicking the Back button to go back to the last screen (Preparing to install Ubuntu) and ticking the box marked ‘Download updates while installing’.
• Allocate drive space
  • Use the checkboxes to choose whether you'd like to Install Ubuntu alongside another operating system, delete your existing operating system and replace it with Ubuntu, or – if you're an advanced user – choose the 'Something else' option
• Begin the installation
  • Depending on your previous selections, you can now verify that you have chosen the way in which you would like to install Ubuntu. The installation process will begin when you click the Install Now button.
  • Ubuntu needs about 4.5 GB to install, so add a few extra GB to allow for your files.
  • Not sure about this step? Windows users can use the Windows installer, which will install and uninstall Ubuntu in the same way as any other Windows application. It's simpler and completely safe.
• Select your location
  • If you are connected to the internet, this should be done automatically. Check your location is correct and click 'Forward' to proceed. If you're unsure of your time zone, type the name of the town you're in or click on the map and we'll help you find it.
• Select your preferred keyboard layout
  • Click on the language option you need. If you’re not sure, click the ‘Detect Keyboard Layout’ button for help.
• Enter your login and password details
• Learn more about Ubuntu while the system installs… or make a cup of tea!
• That's it.
  • All that’s left is to restart your computer and start enjoying Ubuntu!