On April 28, 2011 Canonical Ltd. released version 11.04 of the Ubuntu Linux distribution (also referred to as the Natty Narwhal release). This latest version of Ubuntu proved to be one of the more significant releases for a number of years, perhaps the most significant change being the introduction of the Unity desktop environment. Whilst the classic GNOME desktop is still available, Unity clearly defines the future direction of Ubuntu in terms of appearance and usability.
The purpose of this book is to provide an overview of the essential knowledge required to use and maintain an Ubuntu 11.04 system.
After covering the basics of installation in a variety of scenarios this book provides an in depth tour of the new Unity desktop together with steps on configuring this new desktop environment to match individual user needs. Other topics covered include the implementation of wireless networking and Ubuntu One cloud synchronization through to tasks such as configuring a firewall, setting up a web server, adding disk drives and swap space, configuring KVM based virtualization and providing remote desktop access via an SSH tunnel.
Designed both as a learning tool and a reference guide, it is intended that Ubuntu 11.04 Essentials provide the reader with a sound basis of knowledge for installing, using and maintaining an Ubuntu 11.04 system.
