Download Ubuntu Desktop

The latest version of Ubuntu Desktop is Ubuntu 9.04.

Ubuntu Desktop 8.04 LTS (Long-Term Support) is a long-term supported version. It benefits of 3 year lifecycle.

Long Term Support version (LTS)

• Packages and kernel version selected for their stability and robustness
• Regular package maintenance until the next LTS
• Security update delivered for 5 years
• Seamless upgrade from one LTS to the other
• Point release for last LTS released every 6 month until the next LTS to provide new versions of CD images allowing to install the last LTS release on new hardware.

For more information see Valuable maintenance policy and life cycle.

Download your Ubuntu from the official Download an Ubuntu CD page, burn it to CD and install.

Install Ubuntu

External Sources:

• The Perfect Desktop - Ubuntu 8.04 LTS (Hardy Heron)
• How To Install Ubuntu 8.04 With Software RAID1

Set up Network

Set up static IP, if necessary. To find out how to set up a static IP address on Ubuntu 8.10, see DHCP3-Server on Ubuntu Desktop 8.10.

Set up Graphical Card

See Nvidia Driver Using Envy. Set up your preferred graphical resolution.

Set up Software Sources

Set up software sources, update and upgrade;

On Ubuntu Software tab uncheck Source code. On Third-Party Software tab check partner and partner (Source Code). On Updates tab select Install security updates without confirmation.

Add Medibuntu repository and install restricted extras - commonly used restricted packages. See Adding Medibuntu Repository and Installing Restricted Extras.

Install LTSP

See LTSP and Thin Clients.

Install and Set up a Printer

See Ubuntu 8.10 and HP LaserJet 1020 Printing on A4.

Or Ubuntu 9.04 amd64 and Canon LBP2900.

Set up a Scanner

To set up a scanner on LTSP server and use it on thin clients, see Access Scanner on LTSP Server from Thin Client.

To set up a scanner, see Installing and Configuring Canon CanoScan Lide25 Scanner on Ubuntu.

Add Users

Add users.

Restore their information, if any.

Set up an Account

Add additional keyboard layouts and keyboard layout indicator for easy layout change. Set up the keyboard shortcut for layout switch.

Install and set up necessary programs:

Skype - see Installing Skype and Setting It Up on Ubuntu 8.04 LTS, 8.10 or 9.04.

Firefox

• install Google Toolbar
• Install Firebug
• FlashPlayer - it should be OK if you have installed restricted extras. Open YouTube and check.

Install and Set up Necessary Programs

See Programs for Ubuntu.

Backup

See Backup and Restore Ubuntu 8.04 LTS, 8.10 or 9.04.