The best of Linux distros Ubuntu/Kubuntu 8.04 [code name Hardy heron] is scheduled for release today. Those of you who are still reeling from the pangs of Vi$ta Micro$hit this is your time...switch to Linux. Ubuntu/Kubuntu works on nearly every new laptop [Apple aside] released so far. All the glitzy features of your laptop like bluetooth, wireless lan and even in my case the touch-strip on HP Pavillion work with Ubuntu/Kubuntu. Ubuntu and Kubuntu are basically the same engine but with different environments. IMHO you will be comfortable with both but Windows users will find Kubuntu more appealing.

Ubuntu/Kubuntu are free operating systems and are loaded with top quality software(s) from productivity suites like Open Office [complete replacement for Microsoft Office], games, media software like Amarok [replacement for ITunes], Firefox [replacement for shitty Internet Explorer]...and guess what nearly 90% of these softwares are free. And you can download them without visiting a shop or website. There is a software manager which shows you a complete catalog of softwares and all you do is pick, connect to net and install.

In case of power users like me, I run VMWare workstation which allows me to install and run various Windows opertaing systems from XP to 2003 inside Ubuntu//Kubuntu. This may happen with you if you need applications like Visual Studio, Dreamweaver, Photoshop etc which are not available for Linux.

For those of you with high bandwidth connections, you can download Ubuntu/Kubuntu from their website and burn on a cd and install, or alternatively you can ask them to ship it to you for a minimal shipping charge. So go ahead kick Micro$oft where it hurts most...in their wallet and experience quality experience with Ubuntu/Kubuntu.

Download Ubuntu [LINK]

Download Kubuntu [LINK]