It’s actually been a while since I last installed a version of Linux on any computer of mine. The last time I did was Ubuntu 7, but since then I’ve bought my iMac and been enjoying OS X. I’ve been using Linux on and off since around 2002, so have been fortunate enough to see each new version of various distros change and evolve over that time.

...

While I was not overly impressed with Ubuntu 6, version 7 really caught my eye, and became my default OS for quite a while. It was a delight to see a version of Linux that really made it more accessible and less of a command line hack as I had experienced with older Linux installs. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind working with the command line, rather it’s that I prefer to have an easier time of it.

Version 8 is now out, code named Hardy Heron, and I’m really interested in giving it a whirl. I won’t be dual booting it this time though, it’s going to be existing as a virtual disk for use with Parallels Desktop. What interests me the most is how Canonical have made it easier to use, and what new features they have included. Hardware drivers have historically been a problem, but again this has come on leaps and bounds in the last couple of years. I’ve actually seen Linux versions of some proprietary games getting released, such as Second Life or Eve Online. This is surely a sign that slowly yet surely Linux is enjoying a slight increase in uptake. Doubtless the fact it’s free could well be a bonus!

So I’ve downloaded Hardy Heron and need to give it a try, when I have got some use of it under my belt I will post up a review.

Please post your experiences with Linux and any questions.