I use a version of the free and open operating system called Ubuntu Linux.
I used it for a few years on a number of laptop and desktop computers with great results.
Although it may not the operating system be for your grandma, it might be great for your nephew. On the other hand if your grandma only uses email and a browser then It might fit the bill. If you have a computer around that’s orphaned and still working, you can load Ubuntu on it and give it a spin.
If you have a fast internet connection you can download what is called an ISO file from here. You then use your favorite cd burner program to create a cd. The command in your cd burner will be something like “burn cd image” or “burn ISOimage”.
The cd you end up with is a “live” cd. This means that you can boot up the machine with the CD and test drive Ubuntu before you commit to installing it. Note that your disk will be wiped clean when you install Ubuntu so make sure you copy anything important off the machine before you install.
You can “Dual Boot” fairly easily if you partition the disk properly or add a separate disk drive for Ubuntu.
There are tons of websites with helpful how-to’s on every aspect of Ubuntu and getting all your peripherals working. I have had some trouble with WiFi in the past, but more recently support is fairly good for Wifi.
I now use a Dell Inspiron 1420 for my main laptop. After installing, I got wifi, bluetooth and the nvidia graphics working without much trouble. Auto updates occur fairly regularly and I have never had a problem after an update.
I use a variation of Ubuntu Called Ubuntu Studio that has a great selection of GPL music, sound and video applications that are configured to work well together. Click on the blue icon below to go to the Ubuntu Studio website.
