Test driving Ubuntu Linux Ubuntu 6.06 LTS
Today I downloaded and burned an ISO of "Ubuntu 6.06 LTS - the Dapper Drake - released in June 2006". I didn't even have to install it to try it out; I just booted it up and said I wanted a test drive. Its pretty impressive performance wise (even running from CD-ROM), especially on my Clinton-era AMD K6-550.
I'm currently using the built-in version of the Firefox browser to post this, but there is a considerable list of available software packages that is kept current by Internet update. I really didn't expect to be able to boot this environment up and use it so readily. I think I will save the money I had earmarked for upgrading my home desktop's hardware and try Ubuntu, "Linux for Human Beings!" instead.