David Sudjiman

A recent survey by Linux Foundation reveals that Ubuntu is the most popular linux distribution (55.5%) in year 2007. This finding is not very surprising and even quite obvious to predict.

Ubuntu started its initial released with Ubuntu 4.10 (Warty Warthog) back in October 20, 2004. It was quite a surprised and brave decision to make a one-disc-fits-all distribution that just works for office applications including drivers support and multimedia application such as mp3, video player, CD burner.

Ubuntu fills the spot of linux distribution that seems difficult to install and don’t support current applications to make the switch from Windows desktop to Linux. The battle was long started but seems that Linux keeps loosing it before the existence of Warty Warthog.

Ubuntu offers plethora of applications, just enough to provide what most desktop users need such as office and multimedia application. It reads and write documents from Microsoft office. Although not latest Microsoft Office version, as this gigantic proprietary software company keeps changing its format. It also has automated update with the ease similar like Windows operating system. No more geek commands on a dark dreaded terminal.

On current release, Ubuntu 7.10, even offer great graphics candy via Compiz that allows users to experience different user interface feel. Not so much of productivity, though, but it is fun. It can even imitate Apple mac desktop appearance and even does what mac can’t do. Wobbly windows, for example.

Well, if that’s not enough to get you started, you can always have the choice to install windows side-by-side with Ubuntu (called dual boot) or you can use free application (yes, It is FREE) called VMWARE to run windows within your Ubuntu.

Not only good softwares Ubuntu offers, the other reason that Ubuntu fills more market share in Linux desktop is that it offers free Ubuntu disc shipment to your front door. How good is that?

There are reasons why Ubuntu, within 3 years, can compete and be the best of Linux desktop distribution outperform Redhat and SuSE.

• Ubuntu ‘Just Works’. This is what Linux desktop developers have to look at to compete with current market. To make a distribution that “just works” as Ubuntu proclaims. Users don’t really care about the glory of terminal era or even license limitation. Yes, the spoon-feed users wants to have something that just-works for their computer and Ubuntu is filling the spot.
• Right Applications. Debian has 18733 packages available and bet has more applications than Ubuntu has. However, that’s not the issue. What Linux distribution need to come up with is the right tool for the right job. Desktop users just want to have office and multimedia aplications, and also easy system administration management.
• Free CD and Free Shipping. Lazy to download or just run out of download quota? (blame bit-torrent!). Just as Ubuntu to deliver it for you for free of charge. Who would have done this before?
• Impressive Desktop Effect. Poor Windows Vista that has been following what others operating system can do to users Desktop experience. Ubuntu has been doing this from version 6.10 a year ago!. Although not quite useful, it gives good impression to users that Linux can appears beauty and provoking.
• Support. Ubuntu frequently updates it version every 6 months and the upgrade is dead easy. Users can read the technical documentation, buy support, use the free online community support, or just use Technical Answer System (similar like Windows help).