Windows 7 - Kubuntu/Ubuntu

Well, a guy on a forum was using Kubuntu and I'm kind of interested, but only have a vaugue idea of what it is. I downloaded the netbook version for my laptop, but haven't done anything with it. What would I want to do with something like this, and what are your opinions on it.

Thanks.

~Joshua~

i have ubuntu dual booted on one of my computers its cool, just something different and less worries about viruses. as far as programs they cover the basics. i tend to rather use windows 7 though because the performance is a bit better but im using the desktop version not the netbook one which is better performance. only thing to probably worry about for u is to see if the wifi card in ur laptop is compatible or if theres a driver available also u should look into how to properly partition a hard drive so u can do a dual boot

Having dual-booted various flavors of Windows and Linux for years now, allow me to pass along some advice...

If you haven't already, download and burn a Kubuntu LiveCD -- and boot from that before you try an installation. Anything that does not work well (e.g., sound, video, networking, wireless) is going to range from trivial to impossible to fix after you install.

First, BEFORE you do anything to change your machine, use the Backup function in Windows 7 to create and burn a Windows 7 Repair CD. If you corrupt your Windows 7 boot (happens when folks make mistakes in dual-boot setups), you will need this to get Windows 7 boot back.

Second, use the Windows 7 Disk Management utility to shrink your Windows 7 OS partition to make room for Linux. Using the GParted Linux utility runs the risk of corrupting the Windows 7 OS partition, rendering it unbootable. Don't allow the Kubuntu installer to shrink your Windows 7 OS partition, either.

Third, go to the Ubuntu Forums, Installations and Setup subforum with any questions you have. Kubuntu is basically Ubuntu with the KDE desktop and libraries installed.

Thanks for the advice, but how much effort is it to turn it on and off and such?

~Joshua~

Installing Kununtu (or any other OS for that matter) as a dual boot requires quite a bit of an effort.

Quoting Mark, It would be wiser to check out Kubuntu using the live cd (just burn the iso you downloaded and boot from it) Only if you are really sure you want it as a dual boot, go for it.

If your laptop is powerful enough, you can install Kubuntu INSIDE windows in VirtualBox

On another note, Update your System Spec
You can use Speccy to get the details

Thanks for the help guys, I appreciate it. I don't think I'll use this, I've got a good skin going as well as a MAC simulator. Maybe later though. =D

~Joshua~