Ubuntu, if you haven’t ever heard of it, has been a real hit, especially with enthusiasts wanting a complete and easy-to-use Linux desktop.

And now there’s a new release, designed to appeal just as much to business users, with new features and enhancements, plus a one-click integrated server implementation and long-term support guarantees.

Commonly still referred to by its Dapper Drake codename, the new version is officially Ubuntu 6.06 LTS (long-term support) which, in Ubuntu-speak, means security and other updates for at least five years.

Commercial support from a number of third parties is also available, adding to the usual community help available from other Linux users.

Ubuntu, of course, is by no means unique in this respect, but, unlike some vendors, its software remains free to copy and use, with automatic updates available, regardless of whether you buy into a support contract or not.

When it comes to that software, the Debian Linux on which Ubuntu was originally based is completely revamped in this release, with version 2.6.15 of the kernel tuned for desktop or server deployment dependent on the version involved.

There’s also a separate high-end kernel for servers with eight or more processors, and an Ultrasparc implementation for Sun Fire T1000 and T2000 servers as well as support for x86, 64bit Intel/AMD and PowerPC processors.

There are big changes, too, when it comes to deployment. You still only need to download or order single CD-Rom (both free of charge), but the desktop CD now boots and runs Ubuntu directly, enabling the software to be tried out without needing to install anything.

A new graphical install procedure replaces the old text-based routine with, on the server version, the option of a preconfigured Lamp (Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP) server setup – a very common setup.

Unfortunately, the Ubuntu server doesn’t install with a graphical interface, which can be a bit of a shock if you’re not expecting it. However, it’s easy enough to remedy using either Gnome, the default on the desktop implementation, or an alternative KDE desktop if preferred.

Brown remains the desktop colour of choice, but with a new theme and a more up-to-date Firefox browser installed by default.

Video playback facilities are similarly enhanced, with better power management and wireless networking among other improvements.

On the application front, the Ubuntu desktop comes preconfigured, with the latest Open Office suite of productivity tools (v.2.0.2), plus an Evolution email and calendaring client.

Added to which – although not bundled as standard like other Linux distributions – there are lots of other open-source applications, which can be downloaded and installed using the easy-to-use Debian Advanced Packaging Tool (APT).

As a small-business solution, Ubuntu 6.06 LTS has a lot to commend it, not least of which is the fact that it’s one of the most complete and ready-to-use free Linux distributions available.

It’s also one of the easiest to get to grips with, although when it comes to small businesses it’s likely to be more popular as a server than as a replacement for Windows desktops.

That said, we’re happy to be proved wrong. Automatic updates, commercial support and, of course, the fact that it’s free, make Ubuntu 6.06 LTS worth considering as a Windows alternative.

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