Ubuntu Linux

The requirements listed might be confusing. Ubuntu is an operating system (it is a version of Linux). You would run Ubuntu *instead* of running MS Windows or Mac OS. (It is, however, possible to keep Windows or Mac OS on your disk and choose which to boot.) <br /> <br />Once you are running Ubuntu you will have a ton of free software to run. Some will be installed when you install Ubuntu, others you can easily install from inside Ubuntu. <br /> <br />One benefit of Ubuntu is that it is more reliable and more secure than Windows. <br /> <br />Another benefit is that it is "open source" software. That is, anyone (at least any programmer who understands it) can get a copy of the source code and see how it works, and even make changes. With open source software it is completely legal to pass on copies to others; it is even encouraged. <br /> <br />Ubuntu is available for free for download if you have a fast internet connection, though if you buy this product you also get 60-days of technical support, which might be very helpful. <br />