Welcome to Wirral Linux User Group
Wirral Linux User Group exists to promote and discuss Linux and Free Open Source Software (FOSS) on the Wirral.
Free Open Source Software is a matter of the users' freedom to run, copy, distribute, study, change and improve the software. More precisely, it refers to four kinds of freedom, for the users of the software:
- The freedom to run the program, for any purpose
- The freedom to study how the program works, and adapt it to your needs
- The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help your neighbor
- The freedom to improve the program, and release your improvements to the public, so that the whole community benefits
Mozilla Firefox
Mozilla Firefox is a web browser (like Internet Explorer) and one of the most popular free open source software with over 8 million unique downloads for version 3.
OpenOffice.org
OpenOffice.org (OO.o or OOo) is a free cross-platform office application suite available for a number of different computer operating systems. It supports the ISO standard OpenDocument Format (ODF) for data interchange as its default file format, as well as Microsoft Office '97–2003 formats, Microsoft Office 2007 format (ability to “open” documents in version 3), among others. The OpenOffice.org web site reports more than 98 million downloads.
Linux
Linux is an operating system (like Microsoft Windows) for computers but unlike Windows it is free and open source since 1991. The operating system of a computer is a collection of the basic instructions that tell the electronic parts of the computer what to do and how to work. There are hundreds of Linux distributions. Many lack funding, lose interest, last a short time, lack support or are unstable (some even cost money). But five Linux distributions stand out for longevity, stability, corporate support, localisation (international support), regular updates, maintain their own repositories, popularity and freedom.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu has been released every 6 months since 2004 and are funded by Canonical. Its estimated to have 8 million users.
Debian
Debian was first released in 1996 and continues to be updated today.
Fedora
Fedora has existed since 2003 and is funded by Red Hat.
OpenSuse
OpenSUSE has existed since 2004 and is funded by Novell.
Mandriva
Mandriva began as Mandrake in 1998. It currently has about 130 employees (80 of whom are engineers) and has offices in France, the USA, and Brazil.
A further few have a lot of support in the Linux community including MEPIS, Knoppix, PCLinuxOS and Puppy.
FAQ
What is the directory structure?
Linux obeys the file hierarchy standard.
How do I install software?
With a package manager. Don't panic, MSI files in Windows are like packages.
Are there any cheat sheets?
Distrowatch on Package Management. FOSSWire Ubuntu Cheat Sheet. FOSSWIRE Linux command Cheat Sheet.
Are there any books?
Ubuntu the Pocket Guide and Reference is free to download. As is the Linux Format Starter Pack.
What is the history of Linux distributions?
There is a family tree here.
Are there any commands I should beware of?
rm is the command to delete files.
Can I get Linux posted out to me?
Ubuntu offer a free shipit service.
How do I keep Microsoft Windows and install Linux (a dual-boot)?
See this illustrated dual-boot guide.
I need an application for a particular purpose!
How can I get further help
There is a free Linux helpline here.