LINUX

Ubuntu: quick guide to system environment and customization options

Ubuntu is one of the most popular distributions. But the working environment is very unconventional. Not everyone, especially Windows users, will get the hang of it right away. So let's look at the GUI. You can then judge without prejudice whether it is suitable for you or whether it would be better to choose a version with a different environment more similar to Windows.

The first time you start the environment in Ubuntu, you have to go through a little setup wizard. Ubuntu uses heavily modified Gnome. While Ubuntu's interface looks significantly different, it has unfortunately adopted some mannerisms from the Windows world. Certain tracking options are enabled by default. This could mean installing unwanted programs and services. It's important to actually read each option, not just blindly confirm. Fortunately, everything can be turned off. And even later.

Interestingly, however, is the fact that this issue does not apply to Ubuntu family distributions with different desktop environments. The first screen is standard, taken from the Gnome configuration. It offers the ability to connect to online accounts. Everything can be set later.

The following is an option to configure an additional service to fix kernel vulnerabilities without requiring a system reboot. The tool for this service is OpenSource and free. However, patches themselves are an additional service, unlike regular kernel fixes that require a reboot. It is free for non-commercial use up to 3 computers per 1 registration, otherwise it is a paid service. For desktop use, this option is meaningless. Kernel patches are not that frequent and no one will force a reboot on you. You choose the time according to your own needs.

Attention, here is the option to enable anonymous data collection about this Ubuntu installation. It could be, for example, computer configuration, installed programs, etc. You can see what the first information sent will look like. Personally, I wouldn't allow it. For the completely paranoid, I will add that the package responsible for this is called ubuntu-report. It can be completely removed. It is not installed when installing Ubuntu-based distributions with a different environment.

Then there is the option to set the given Device Geolocation Service permission. The Mozilla Firefox browser service is used. Enable only if you need this option for an application. It is also advisable to check in the browser.

The last screen contains recommendations for installing popular software. I recommend not installing anything for now. At most, write down the software that I might like.

mundophone