As the ultimate resource on the basics of the Linux desktops, servers, and programming tools, this book is written by the ultimate author on all things Linux. This transition resource is ideal if you are making the move from Windows or Macintosh to using Linux as your desktop system, and explains the Linux technology, offers detailed installation instructions, and includes step-by-step descriptions of key desktop and server components. You’ll relish the in-depth descriptions that will help you choose the best Linux distribution to suit your needs.

Run the world's most popular free operating system on your own computer

Get in on the Linux phenomenon! Play music and games, publish on paper or on the Web, and communicate over the Internet. This comprehensive book includes step-by-step instructions and software for 18 different Linux distributions. Whether you are an enterprising do-it-yourselfer or an aspiring Linux professional, you can start here on your path to software freedom.

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Master Linux for desktops, servers, and workstations
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Find, install, and use loads of free and open source software
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Create your own cool apps with useful programming tools
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Launch all your music, video, images, and documents in Linux
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Browse, e-mail, or chat over the Internet from a Linux desktop
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Set up your own e-mail and Web (LAMP) servers
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Make safe connections with firewalls and other security tools

A total of 18 different Linux distributions are included on the DVD and CD-ROM.

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To try out Linux, boot directly KNOPPIX, openSUSE, Ubuntu, Gentoo, BackTrack, and other live Linux distributions
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To keep Linux permanently, install Fedora, Ubuntu, openSUSE, Debian GNU, Damn Small Linux, Slackware Linux, and other distributions to your hard disk