Ubuntu is a community developed, linux-based operating system that is perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. t contains all the applications you need - a web browser, presentation, document and spreadsheet software, instant messaging and much more.

Secure

Linux is inherently more secure than other operating systems. As a result, Ubuntu offers you a robust and secure desktop or server operating environment.

Affordable: it's completely free

Ubuntu is an open source operating system. Which means you aren't tied in to costly licensing fees associated with proprietary operating systems.

Ubuntu Server Edition - built on the solid foundation of Debian which is known for its robust server installations - has a strong heritage for reliable performance and predictable evolution. As your business grows, so does your network. More applications need to be deployed and more servers are required. Combined with world-class support from our Support Services team, Ubuntu Server Edition meets your business-computing needs.

Integrated and secure platform

Ubuntu Server Edition offers support for several common configurations, simplifying common Linux server deployment processes. It provides a well-integrated platform enabling you to quickly and easily deploy a new server with any of the standard internet services: mail, web, DNS, file serving or database management.

A key lesson from its Debian heritage is that of security by default. The Ubuntu Server has no open ports after the installation and contains only the essential software needed to build a secure server.

Lower total cost of ownership with automatic LAMP installation

In around 15 minutes, the time it takes to install Ubuntu Server Edition, you can have a LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP) server up and ready to go. This feature, exclusive to Ubuntu Server Edition, is available at the time of installation.

The LAMP option means you don't have to install and integrate each of the four separate LAMP components, a process which can take hours and requires someone who is skilled in the installation and configuration of the individual applications. Instead, you get increased security, reduced time-to-install, and reduced risk of misconfiguration, all of which results in a lower cost of ownership.

Eliminate the cost of updating individual workstations

Ubuntu offers you simpler installation and easier maintenance than typical IT deployments. With all data stored on the server, you will substantially eliminate the cost of updating individual workstations to ensure their security. Enhancements include:

•  Automatic network configuration with DHCP service for servers with two or more network cards attached - available with the alternate CD installer
• Language and session selection from the LTSP log in manager - allowing a user to choose from any of the languages and desktop sessions installed on the server
• Support for locally attached devices on thin clients - allowing users to access cameras, ipods or USB sticks on the thin client
• Printing support - enabling printing on a local printer from the thin client
• Full support for Etherboot

Ubuntu Desktop Edition is a complete software suite for your entire enterprise, it delivers the latest solutions that help you dramatically reduce your costs and eliminate security threats. Combined with world-class support from our Support Services team, Ubuntu Desktop Edition meets your business-computing needs.

Flexible: easy deployment and management in many configurations

Ubuntu Desktop Edition can be deployed as a general-purpose desktop, thin client or thick-clients, or for high-performance computing or engineering workstations.

Fast and easy installation

Ubuntu has a fast and easy graphical installer right on the Desktop CD, which is also a Live CD. On a typical computer the installation should take you less than 25 minutes.

Quick and easy updates

The task bar contains an update area where we'll notify you when there are updates available for your system, from simple security fixes to a complete version upgrade. The update facility enables your employees to keep their system up-to-date with just a few clicks of the mouse.

Ready for your business - it just works

We've done all the hard work to ensure that the basics are in place so your systems are immediately usable once you've installed Ubuntu. In the task bar your employees will find a complete suite of productivity applications, including:

• Office suite: OpenOffice 2.0 is a complete office suite for creating documents, spreadsheets, presentations or databases. OpenOffice is compatible with Microsoft Office, Word Perfect, KOffice or StarOffice files.
• Email and calendaring: Whether you need to check email, create a calendar or search for a contact, Evolution can help.
• Web browser: The award-winning Firefox browser protects your users from viruses, spyware and pop-ups, and makes it easy navigate between web pages with tabbed browsing.
• Instant messaging: Ubuntu supports popular public instant message applications such as Gaim, Jabber and MSN.
• Photo: F-Spot photo-library management offers advanced support for photo importing, publishing, cataloguing and creating versions.
• Notes: Tomboy offers desktop note-taking for Linux.

Interoperable: seamlessly leverage your existing IT investments

Ubuntu seamlessly shares files with Windows, and it can talk to your existing e-mail servers, including Microsoft Exchange. Ubuntu also supports other industry staples, including plug-n-play hardware support for USB devices, wireless networking, support for printing and multimedia content viewers.

Why Ubuntu cloud computing?

Ubuntu is the fastest route to a reliable cloud for your business: it is the only distribution which includes all the components you need to build a cloud straight away.

Compatible technology

Ability to use the same Ubuntu machine images and management tools across both private and public systems, minimising costly re-training or application change when moving from private to public and vice versa.