I downloaded the Ubuntu 9.10 "iso image" file from the Ubuntu web site. The Ubuntu site has thorough instructions regarding how to do this using either Windows or a LINUX machine. You need to be aware that the "iso image" is not to be treated as a "file" when you are burning a disk. If you are using Nero, the option is "burn a previously created disk image file to a real disk."
I installed Ubuntu 9.10 on a Dell Dimension 4550 with 1.0 GBytes of RAM and a 60 GByte hard drive. I preserved the Windows environment and all the Windows data by configuring for "dual boot."
The Ubuntu install process could not resize the NFTS partition. Per a suggestion from the LINUX install, I decided to try a Windows-based partition utility. Paragon Manager 10 Express, a free download for XP was found. I opted for the default option because it promised a larger new partition.
After the new partition was made, I booted the Dell from the iso image disk described above. The install process ask for my language, keyboard type, and time zone. I read the "slide show" presentation during the installation. I recommend this slide show to anyone new to LINUX.
After the install, the system started and ran with absolutely no problems. Sound work right out of the box. (Which will not happen on most Dell machines from a Windows Distribution CD.) After a few minutes, I found System > Administration > Hardware Drivers. When this process ran, it advised me that a proprietary video driver was available and recommended that I install that. I did so with a couple of clicks and my password. This produced enhanced visual effects on the desktop featuring semi transparent window edges somewhat like the Aero interface.
Items verified in the first few minutes of testing:
 | Full access to all shared files on the Windows Network. |
| Full access to Windows shared printer (in LINUX jargon "via SAMBA.") |
| Internet browsing and e-mail. |
| Open Office applications: Word Processor, Spreadsheet, Database, Presentations. |
| Photo viewing and storing and simple editing via F Spot |
| Sophisticated image editing via GIMP |
| And More (including the ability to boot Windows and work there if desired.) |
One function that did not work initially was DVD movies. This required the Ubuntu "restricted extras package." The Ubuntu web site has complete instructions.
For years, I have experimented with various releases of LINUX. All have been unfortunately complex to install. This installation was simpler than other installations I have done. It was faster and simpler than installing Windows XP.
The Open Source community has changed the game. Look out, Redmond.