I'd like to try Ubuntu but I was warned to be very careful about using Linux.

There is some scary stuff out there like The Truth about Linux. I really don't want all my work to be owned by the Microsoft Corporation because of infringing software.

How long can I use Ubuntu for? If I use it for 30 days and delete it afterwards will I still get sued?

Ubuntu is 100% FREE and you can use for the rest of your life... for FREE! Ohh... and by the way, Ubuntu has nothing to do with Microsoft... I don't know who lied to you...

If you really want to try Ubuntu, create a FREE account from here:

https://launchpad.net/ login?origin=shipit-ubuntu

and then you can order a FREE CD from the following link:

https://shipit.ubuntu.com/

Just click on the "Request a CD of Ubuntu Desktop Edition" link, and fill out the form. The disc will arrive in about 2-3 weeks at the address you've mentioned in the form.

Or you can simply download an Ubuntu 8.04 desktop edition CD from here:

http://releases.ubuntu.com/8.04/ubuntu-8.04-desktop-i386.iso

And follow these instructions to install it:

http://news.softpedia.com/news/Installing-Ubuntu-8-04-LTS-84314.shtml

wow, where you get that info from?

I think you're joking... right? If not, you should fire the person who's been telling you these things :-P

As for your concerns, Microsoft once backed a failed attempt by another company to claim that Linux stole some of its proprietary code, but that was debunked. And even had it been true, why would Microsoft own your shit? And Ubuntu, being a distribution of Linux, is completely free. Using it places you under no legal obligations or restrictions.

Regarding this new design, I agree with the reviewer that they need to lighten it up. Dark, uniform gray is just not a very cheery working environment.

I assume you're referring to Microsoft's claim that Linux infringes it's patents. So far Microsoft has yet to substantiate those claims in any meaningful way. It's more Microsoft FUD, until they provide some detail instead of unsupported claims. Even if it turns out Microsoft does have legit a claim, that would in no way entitle them to ownership of your work. It's unlikely Microsoft would target home users simply because of the cost involved in finding them and then suing them. It's highly unlikely you'll end up in court for using Ubuntu.

Microsoft it's self has infringed and been sued several times for patent infringement and lost. For example, they have to pay Alcatel-Lucent over 500 Million in damages pending the out come of their appeal for infringing on patents related to video decoding. There are many other examples.

Fact is software patents are a terrible idea cause these companies can patent broad fundamental concepts and it's very expensive to go to court over them, so a lot of companies just settle.

Regardless of what OS and software you choose the patent issue won't go away.

It's free and not owned by Microsoft. They must of been talking about Windows.

BTW, if you want to test Ubuntu, try Wubi. It's 100% safe.

LinWin - Are you kidding, please try to educate yourself before making such a ignorant comment.

Nice troll.

You know that site is a joke, yes?

Ubuntu for desktops. CentOS for servers. Windows only for games.

LOL!!
Looks that they only changed the theme color to grey, and few minor changes.

And yet again Linux developers can't design decent looking interfaces. Padding, margins, font sizes. Streuth guys, get some designers to help you.

Fix the interface, and your userbase will increase dramatically!

I think Softpedia put a custom theme. The default is human, and I know that's not the Human theme.

Calvin Buckley, why don't you download the ISO of Ubuntu 8.10 Alpha 1 and give it a try? So you can see for yourself the theme!

I have used Ubuntu since 7.04 feisty, and have really look forward for the new theme, but I tell your if this is the final theme, which I don't think, I will still be using the human the or some other the from gnome-look.org!!!

LOL I cant believe you people take him serious, hes having a laugh with his moron mates about it,

I Must test Ubuntu