Ubuntu 9.10 Desktop Handbook

The Ubuntu 9.10 desktop Handbook covers Ubuntu 9.10 (Karmic Koala) features of interest to users. The emphasis here is on what users will face when using Ubuntu, covering topics like installation, applications, software management, the GNOME and KDE4 desktops, shell commands, and administration and network tools. Office, multimedia, mail, and Web applications are reviewed. Implementing access to the Medibuntu.org software repository for restricted applications and multimedia codecs is detailed. Desktops are examined including features like the Brasero DVD/CD disc burning and Bluetooth device detection, plasmoids, KDE configuration tools, the KDE Zoom User Interface (ZUI), and social networking applets. Desktop effects as implemented by GNOME's Compiz-fusion and KDE's KWin with 3D workspace and windows switching are also discussed. Though administrative topics are covered, the emphasis is on what a user would need to know to perform tasks. Certain tools are covered in detail like Network Manager which supports both wireless 3G and Ethernet connections. Gufw provides a user interface for managing ufw firewall, the default firewall. Advanced components of Ubuntu 9.10 are also examined such as Dynamic Kernel Module Support (DKMS) used for vendor graphics drivers, the Palimpsest storage management and information tool (DeviceKit), and the creation of Ubuntu Live USB and Ubuntu Live Netbook USB drives. Numerous smaller enhancements are discussed like the Synaptic Package Manager quick searches and sample screenshots, the PulseAudio Volume Control, Computer Janitor package cleanup, and the combined user switcher and shut down applet.