LQWiki - User contributions [en]

Codec

2007-11-06T16:41:39Z

Sepero:

'''Codec''' stands for '''co'''der and '''dec'''oder and is a system that encapsulates both encoding and decoding of information (as opposed to two separate systems). In computing terms, it is a software library or utility that performs the encoding and decoding on raw data, into and out of whatever format the codec supports.

A common example is video codecs, which can both encode the video images into some other form (usually for [[compression]]), and playback the encoded video (i.e. decoding back in a video stream).

There are a large number of video formats, and corresponding codecs.

For examples see:

* [[MPEG]]
* [[AVI]]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/.mov##QuickTime_file_format MOV] (and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quicktime QuickTime])
* [[XviD]]
* [[DivX]]

=Links=
http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Installing_Codecs

Talk:Xvidcap

2007-09-10T18:40:29Z

Sepero:

----

Yeah, I'd just like to suggest that the entire "Wishes" section be deleted. I believe that if you have a feature request, you should submit it to the author, not put it on a wiki. [[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 14:40, September 10, 2007 (EDT)

----

The rpm supplied for xvidcap will have troubles on some installations due to a clash in png libraries.
Making from source resolves this error and allows gvidcap to run without crashing. Will be sending
some fedora built rpm's to the xvidcap maintainer soon :) The gvidcap client provides an interface alot
more convenient to setting preferences.

Also note that the animate command you've noticed is strictly for animating a sequence of images!
Will not work with mpegs. Use your usual video player (videolan/mplayer) for this.

Nice little program with alot of potential! --Snorri

:I revised and moved the original comment and your note, here, Snorri, to the end of the page. However, it should really be replaced with a 'See also' link and be a full blown gvidcap page. Also, 'Xvidcap' probably needs to be redone in a more 'objective' way. However, I don't have any experience with either app, so just left it at that. --[[User:Digiot|Digiot]] 17:50, May 15, 2004 (EDT)

Talk:Xvidcap

2007-09-10T18:39:23Z

Sepero:

Yeah, I'd just like to suggest that the entire "Wishes" section be deleted. I believe that if you have a feature request, you should submit it to the author, not put it on a wiki.

----

The rpm supplied for xvidcap will have troubles on some installations due to a clash in png libraries.
Making from source resolves this error and allows gvidcap to run without crashing. Will be sending
some fedora built rpm's to the xvidcap maintainer soon :) The gvidcap client provides an interface alot
more convenient to setting preferences.

Also note that the animate command you've noticed is strictly for animating a sequence of images!
Will not work with mpegs. Use your usual video player (videolan/mplayer) for this.

Nice little program with alot of potential! --Snorri

:I revised and moved the original comment and your note, here, Snorri, to the end of the page. However, it should really be replaced with a 'See also' link and be a full blown gvidcap page. Also, 'Xvidcap' probably needs to be redone in a more 'objective' way. However, I don't have any experience with either app, so just left it at that. --[[User:Digiot|Digiot]] 17:50, May 15, 2004 (EDT)

Video capture

2007-09-10T18:35:38Z

Sepero:

There are different applications for capturing video in Linux, depending on whether it's from an analog source which [[V4L]] (VideoForLinux) will deal with, or a digital one. One example of vidcap software is [[xvidcap]]

For getting DV from a [[firewire]] (1394) interface, have a look at [[Kino]].

Video capture can be used as part of a [[PVR]]. One popular PVR application is [[MythTV]]

==Specific Applications==
*[[xvidcap]]
*[[gtk-recordmydesktop]]
*[[istanbul]]
*[[mythtv]]
*[[tvtime]]
*[[wink]]
*[[byzanz]]
*[[gvidcap]] (Is this program abandoned?)
Text-based tools:
*[[recordmydesktop]]
*[[ffmpeg]]

==See also==
*[[Video]]

==External links==
* [http://kino.schirmacher.de/ kino homepage] (''kino.schirmacher.de'')
* [http://xvidcap.sourceforge.net/ xvidcap homepage] (''xvidcap.sourceforge.net'')
* [http://www.exploits.org/v4l/ V4L page with many links but little content of its own] (''www.exploits.org'')

Xvidcap

2007-09-10T18:35:14Z

Sepero: Added(renamed) header to Alternative Desktop Recorders

With [http://sourceforge.net/projects/xvidcap/ xvidcap], you can capture a video from your screen. This allows for example to communicate problems on your computer easily.

===Setup===
Set your video display to something small and manageable... I did my first screen grab at 1000s of colors, 1028 X 960 (?) and each frame was 1.2 meg! 240 frames and my machine
800 MgHz AMD/ 1 GIG Ram / RH9 choked on trying to make that set into a movie.

===Installing and Running===
See [[installing software]].

The executable of xvidcap is ''xvidcap''.

===Configuring xvidcap===
;.xvidcap.scf

Note: The following config file originates from version 1.1.3
<pre>

#SCFF
# xvidcap configuration file

# frames per second
fps: 5.000000

# file pattern
file: capture-01.mpeg

# max frames
max_frames: 0

# max time
max_time: 0.000000

# quality (JPEG)
quality: 15

# compression (PNG, GZIP)
compression: 0

# use shared memory
shm: 16

# video codec used by ffmpeg
codec: MPEG4

# what kind of mouse pointer should be recorded?
# 0 = none, 1 = white, 2 = black
mouse_wanted: 2

# toggle audio capture (0/1)
audio: 1

# device to grab audio from
audio_in: /dev/dsp

# sample rate for audio capture
audio_rate: 22050

# bit rate for audio capture
audio_bits: 32000

# number of channels to use in audio capture
audio_channels: 1
</pre>

===Playback===
Use a [[video player]](ie. [[xine]]) for movie playback.

xvidcap can save a series of screen grabs XXX.xwd files, they are numbered sequentially (File format .xwd)

===Pros===
*audio recording
*clicking on the target icon will record the entire screen

===Cons===
*bad gui control interface
*maximizing target recording area hides GUI toolbar.
*The arrow key on the GUI advances the XXX.xwd but apparently is not acting as a manual screen grab tool
**If an audio controller interface and the arrow key did in fact function as an incremental screen grabber xvidcap may be very useful for doing 'stop motion' videos of the linux interface with voice overs
*doesn't prompt user for location of save screen grabs
*no project folder prompt
*GUI is not very opaque in its usage
*movie playback happens in imagemagick though there is supposedly a way to do the playback as an mpeg4 file

===Alternative Desktop Recorders===
* http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Video_capture
* Another alternative is gvidcap. If there are problems with crashing, it may be due to a clash in png libraries. [[Compilation from source]] resolves this error and allows gvidcap to run without crashing. The gvidcap client provides an interface a lot more convenient to setting preferences. The animate command is strictly for animating a sequence of images and will not work with mpegs. Use your usual [[video player]].

===Wishes===
*audio controller on toolbar
*frame rate controller on toolbar
*make video interface to specific output format
*swf output

===Links===
Homepage
* http://xvidcap.sourceforge.net/

Download
* http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=81535
::(Click on "Download" directly to the right of "xvidcap" to view downloads. Select "xvidcap_*_i386.deb", "xvidcap-*-i486-1_slack11.0.tgz", or "xvidcap-*.tar.gz" depending on your distribution. If you use Fedora, you might try searching here http://freshrpms.net )

Video capture

2007-09-10T18:29:53Z

Sepero: gvidcap

There are different applications for capturing video in Linux, depending on whether it's from an analog source which [[V4L]] (VideoForLinux) will deal with, or a digital one. One example of vidcap software is [[xvidcap]]

For getting DV from a [[firewire]] (1394) interface, have a look at [[Kino]].

Video capture can be used as part of a [[PVR]]. One popular PVR application is [[MythTV]]

==Specific Applications==
*[[xvidcap]]
*[[gtk-recordmydesktop]]
*[[istanbul]]
*[[mythtv]]
*[[tvtime]]
*[[wink]]
*[[byzanz]]
*[[gvidcap]] (Is this program abandonded?)
Text-based tools:
*[[recordmydesktop]]
*[[ffmpeg]]

==See also==
*[[Video]]

==External links==
* [http://kino.schirmacher.de/ kino homepage] (''kino.schirmacher.de'')
* [http://xvidcap.sourceforge.net/ xvidcap homepage] (''xvidcap.sourceforge.net'')
* [http://www.exploits.org/v4l/ V4L page with many links but little content of its own] (''www.exploits.org'')

Xvidcap

2007-09-10T18:27:31Z

Sepero: Deleted xvidcap similar progs section(wtf?). Added xvidcap links.

With [http://sourceforge.net/projects/xvidcap/ xvidcap], you can capture a video from your screen. This allows for example to communicate problems on your computer easily.

===Setup===
Set your video display to something small and manageable... I did my first screen grab at 1000s of colors, 1028 X 960 (?) and each frame was 1.2 meg! 240 frames and my machine
800 MgHz AMD/ 1 GIG Ram / RH9 choked on trying to make that set into a movie.

===Installing and Running===
See [[installing software]].

The executable of xvidcap is ''xvidcap''.

===Configuring xvidcap===
;.xvidcap.scf

Note: The following config file originates from version 1.1.3
<pre>

#SCFF
# xvidcap configuration file

# frames per second
fps: 5.000000

# file pattern
file: capture-01.mpeg

# max frames
max_frames: 0

# max time
max_time: 0.000000

# quality (JPEG)
quality: 15

# compression (PNG, GZIP)
compression: 0

# use shared memory
shm: 16

# video codec used by ffmpeg
codec: MPEG4

# what kind of mouse pointer should be recorded?
# 0 = none, 1 = white, 2 = black
mouse_wanted: 2

# toggle audio capture (0/1)
audio: 1

# device to grab audio from
audio_in: /dev/dsp

# sample rate for audio capture
audio_rate: 22050

# bit rate for audio capture
audio_bits: 32000

# number of channels to use in audio capture
audio_channels: 1
</pre>

===Playback===
Use a [[video player]](ie. [[xine]]) for movie playback.

xvidcap can save a series of screen grabs XXX.xwd files, they are numbered sequentially (File format .xwd)

===Pros===
*audio recording
*clicking on the target icon will record the entire screen

===Cons===
*bad gui control interface
*maximizing target recording area hides GUI toolbar.
*The arrow key on the GUI advances the XXX.xwd but apparently is not acting as a manual screen grab tool
**If an audio controller interface and the arrow key did in fact function as an incremental screen grabber xvidcap may be very useful for doing 'stop motion' videos of the linux interface with voice overs
*doesn't prompt user for location of save screen grabs
*no project folder prompt
*GUI is not very opaque in its usage
*movie playback happens in imagemagick though there is supposedly a way to do the playback as an mpeg4 file

===Wishes===
*audio controller on toolbar
*frame rate controller on toolbar
*make video interface to specific output format
*swf output

===Note===
* Another alternative is gvidcap. If there are problems with crashing, it may be due to a clash in png libraries. [[Compilation from source]] resolves this error and allows gvidcap to run without crashing. The gvidcap client provides an interface a lot more convenient to setting preferences. The animate command is strictly for animating a sequence of images and will not work with mpegs. Use your usual [[video player]].

===Links===
Homepage
* http://xvidcap.sourceforge.net/

Download
* http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=81535
::(Click on "Download" directly to the right of "xvidcap" to view downloads. Select "xvidcap_*_i386.deb", "xvidcap-*-i486-1_slack11.0.tgz", or "xvidcap-*.tar.gz" depending on your distribution. If you use Fedora, you might try searching here http://freshrpms.net )

Video capture

2007-09-10T18:05:07Z

Sepero: Added programs

There are different applications for capturing video in Linux, depending on whether it's from an analog source which [[V4L]] (VideoForLinux) will deal with, or a digital one. One example of vidcap software is [[xvidcap]]

For getting DV from a [[firewire]] (1394) interface, have a look at [[Kino]].

Video capture can be used as part of a [[PVR]]. One popular PVR application is [[MythTV]]

==Specific Applications==
*[[xvidcap]]
*[[gtk-recordmydesktop]]
*[[istanbul]]
*[[mythtv]]
*[[tvtime]]
*[[wink]]
*[[byzanz]]
Text-based tools:
*[[recordmydesktop]]
*[[ffmpeg]]

==See also==
*[[Video]]

==External links==
* [http://kino.schirmacher.de/ kino homepage] (''kino.schirmacher.de'')
* [http://xvidcap.sourceforge.net/ xvidcap homepage] (''xvidcap.sourceforge.net'')
* [http://www.exploits.org/v4l/ V4L page with many links but little content of its own] (''www.exploits.org'')

Cedega

2007-04-16T05:56:53Z

Sepero: m - Aladdin license

'''Cedega''' is a commercial version of [[wine]] that is geared towards games. It was previously known as WineX, but changed its name with version 4.0 to Cedega. It features a very large database of games, and forums. It comes with excellent support for paying customers, and good support for non-game applications.

It is produced by [http://www.transgaming.com/ Transgaming Technologies] and forked from wine years ago. It currently uses the [[Aladdin]] Source License making [[port]]ing code between Cedega and wine very hard (wine is under a more liberal license known as [[LGPL]]).

Transgaming does provide support and binary releases to paying customers. Otherwise as with wine what you get is the current CVS.

See the [[wine]] page for further information, or [[Gaming via Wine or WineX]] for information on playing games under Cedega.

==See also==
*[[Gaming]]

==External links==
*[http://www.linuxlookup.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=Reviews&file=index&req=showcontent&id=60 WineX 4.0 (Cedega) review] (''www.linuxlookup.com'')

Wine

2007-04-16T05:49:09Z

Sepero: WineX is now Cedega

'''Wine''' ('''W'''ine '''I'''s '''N'''ot an '''E'''mulator, see [[recursive acronym]]) is the Windows emulation subsystem. It allows you to run some [[Windows]] applications and games on Linux without a copy of Windows.

Applications run under Wine usually operate at the same speed they do in Windows, which makes Wine suitable for playing games, unlike other emulation solutions such as [[VMware]] or [[Win4Lin]] which actually emulate an entire computer.

Wine works by loading an EXE in the same way Windows would, then linking the program against its own open-source implementations of the various DLLs that make up core Windows functionality. Therefore the capabilities of Wine are linked to how complete its versions of the Microsoft DLLs are.

Because it doesn't emulate an entire computer, the developers named it WINE, which stands for "Wine is not an emulator". The developers refer to Wine as a compatibility layer.

Wine has the following advantages over emulating a fake computer and running Windows inside it:

* Applications operate at full speed, making them useful on a day to day basis
* Applications integrate with the Linux desktop nicely. For instance they can use your [[Window Manager]], system tray, clipboard and appear in your Linux applications menu.
* Wine does not require a copy of Windows, so it is the only long term solution to eliminating the need for Windows entirely.

Unfortunately, Wine has the following disadvantages:

* It's not capable of running all applications. Some programs crash, won't install, or have strange glitches that prevent them being useful.
* It can be tricky to setup and use
* WineHQ does not do real releases, only CVS snapshots. That means you can upgrade and find your program has actually stopped working.
* Because it does not emulate the CPU it is [[i386]] only.

In order to alleviate some of these problems, [[CodeWeavers]] stepped in and started producing a commercialized version of Wine, which is much easier to use and hacked to work better with popular productivity programs such as Office, DreamWeaver, Lotus Notes and so on. [[TransGaming]] have done the same for games with their [[Cedega]] product(formerly [[WineX]]), but while CodeWeavers still contribute back heavily to the original Wine project, TransGaming have mostly left the community and work on their own proprietary fork.

===Related projects===
[[ReactOS]] is a project that attempts to do an open-source reimplementation of a Windows-like operating system. It reuses about 75% of WINE's DLLs.

[[cygwin]] is a Linux/Unix compatability layer for Windows.

==External links==

* [http://winehq.org Official Wine website] (''winehq.org'')

Talk:Installing Codecs

2007-03-12T15:54:33Z

Sepero: Removing all content from page

Installing Codecs

2007-03-12T15:53:26Z

Sepero: corrected typo

This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

Installing these codecs should allow you to play most video and audio files you can find on the internet. (avi, mp3, mov, etc.)

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
==Go to the Webpage==
The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html

==Locate the Download Section==
Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT".

==Download the Codecs==
On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US".

==Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs==
After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
#Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). (Nautilus or Konqueror)
#Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".

----
If you are unable to extract the file this way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. [[#CommandLine - Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs | CLICK HERE FOR THE COMMANDLINE INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==Install the Codecs==
After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator).
:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
#Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
#*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
#:or
#*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
#Go into the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential-...tar.bz2).
#Highlight(select) all of the files in that directory. (Use the mouse, or press Ctrl+A)
#Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "''C''opy" from that menu.
#Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#:(NOTE: You may need to create this directory.)
#*You can create new directories in Nautilus by pressing these keys together 'Shift+Ctrl+N'.
#*You can create new directories in Konqueror by pressing the 'F10' key.
#Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. '''If everything went well up to here, then you are finished.
:[[#Finish | Skip to the end of the page]].'''

----
If you are unable to copy the files with your File Manager, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. [[#CommandLine - Install the Codecs | CLICK HERE FOR COMMANDLINE INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==CommandLine - Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs==
#Open a terminal.
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
#*<code>cd Desktop</code>
#Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
#*<code>ls essential*</code>
#Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
#*<code>tar -xvjf <replace with filename></code>
:[[#Install the Codecs | CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE REGULAR INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==CommandLine - Install the Codecs==
#Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
#*<code>su</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo su</code>
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
#*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
#Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>
#*:If the directory /usr/local/lib/codecs/ does not exist, you will need to create it and then try copying the files again. To create the directory, use this command:
#*:*<code>mkdir /usr/local/lib/codecs</code>

==Finish==
Congratulations. Your codecs should be installed. Close and restart your video/audio player to try them out. If you are still having trouble playing any files, please post about it on the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Talk:Installing_Codecs&action=edit discussion] page.

== See also ==

* [[mplayer]]

[[Category:Multimedia]]

Installing Codecs

2007-03-12T15:49:42Z

Sepero: Inserted the Konqueror keypress for creating a new folder

This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

Installing these codecs should allow you to play most video and audio files you can find on the internet. (avi, mp3, mov, etc.)

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
==Go to the Webpage==
The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html

==Locate the Download Section==
Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT".

==Download the Codecs==
On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US".

==Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs==
After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
#Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). (Nautilus or Konqueror)
#Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".

----
If you are unable to extract the file this way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. [[#CommandLine - Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs | CLICK HERE FOR THE COMMANDLINE INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==Install the Codecs==
After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator). [[#copyAsRoot | (You may click here for command line directions)]]
:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
#Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
#*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
#:or
#*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
#Go into the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential-...tar.bz2).
#Highlight(select) all of the files in that directory. (Use the mouse, or press Ctrl+A)
#Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "''C''opy" from that menu.
#Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#:(NOTE: You may need to create this directory.)
#*You can create new directories in Nautilus by pressing these keys together 'Shift+Ctrl+N'.
#*You can create new directories in Konqueror by pressing the 'F10' key.
#Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. '''If everything went well up to here, then you are finished.
:[[#Finish | Skip to the end of the page]].'''

----
If you are unable to copy the files with your File Manager, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. [[#CommandLine - Install the Codecs | CLICK HERE FOR COMMANDLINE INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==CommandLine - Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs==
#Open a terminal.
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
#*<code>cd Desktop</code>
#Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
#*<code>ls essential*</code>
#Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
#*<code>tar -xvjf <replace with filename></code>
:[[#Install the Codecs | CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE REGULAR INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==CommandLine - Install the Codecs==
#Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
#*<code>su</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo su</code>
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
#*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
#Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>
#*:If the directory /usr/local/lib/codecs/ does not exist, you will need to create it and then try copying the files again. To create the directory, use this command:
#*:*<code>mkdir /usr/local/lib/codecs</code>

==Finish==
Congratulations. Your codecs should be installed. Close and restart your video/audio player to try them out. If you are still having trouble playing any files, please post about it on the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Talk:Installing_Codecs&action=edit discussion] page.

== See also ==

* [[mplayer]]

[[Category:Multimedia]]

Installing Codecs

2007-03-01T09:58:21Z

Sepero: Formatting Mostly complete. There may be typos.

This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

Installing these codecs should allow you to play most video and audio files you can find on the internet. (avi, mp3, mov, etc.)

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
==Go to the Webpage==
The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html

==Locate the Download Section==
Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT".

==Download the Codecs==
On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US".

==Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs==
After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
#Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). (Nautilus or Konqueror)
#Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".

----
If you are unable to extract the file this way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. [[#CommandLine - Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs | CLICK HERE FOR THE COMMANDLINE INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==Install the Codecs==
After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator). [[#copyAsRoot | (You may click here for command line directions)]]
:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
#Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
#*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
#:or
#*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
#Go into the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential-...tar.bz2).
#Highlight(select) all of the files in that directory. (Use the mouse, or press Ctrl+A)
#Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "''C''opy" from that menu.
#Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#:(NOTE: You may need to create this directory.)
#*You can create new directories in Nautilus by pressing these keys together 'Shift+Ctrl+N'.
#*(I tried to find out how to create new directories in Konqueror 3.5.5 on Debian Etch as of Jan25 07, but it kept locking up on me.) (Note: I tried again on Mar01 07. It is still locking up.)
#Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. '''If everything went well up to here, then you are finished.
:[[#Finish | Skip to the end of the page]].'''

----
If you are unable to copy the files with your File Manager, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. [[#CommandLine - Install the Codecs | CLICK HERE FOR COMMANDLINE INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==CommandLine - Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs==
#Open a terminal.
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
#*<code>cd Desktop</code>
#Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
#*<code>ls essential*</code>
#Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
#*<code>tar -xvjf <replace with filename></code>
:[[#Install the Codecs | CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE REGULAR INSTRUCTIONS.]]

==CommandLine - Install the Codecs==
#Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
#*<code>su</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo su</code>
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
#*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
#Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>
#*:If the directory /usr/local/lib/codecs/ does not exist, you will need to create it and then try copying the files again. To create the directory, use this command:
#*:*<code>mkdir /usr/local/lib/codecs</code>

==Finish==
Congratulations. Your codecs should be installed. Close and restart your video/audio player to try them out. If you are still having trouble playing any files, please post about it on the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Talk:Installing_Codecs&action=edit discussion] page.

WIKI AUTHORS:
If anyone knows the key combination to create a new folder in Konqueror, please post it here or on the discussion page. Thx. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:20, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Installing Codecs

2007-03-01T08:49:47Z

Sepero: Editing Formatting *unfinished

'''*THIS PAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION*'''

This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

Installing these codecs should allow you to play most video and audio files you can find on the internet. (avi, mp3, mov, etc.)

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
==Go to the Webpage==
The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html

==Locate the Download Section==
Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT".

==Download the Codecs==
On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US". 

==Unzip/Uncompress the Codecs==
After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
#Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). [Nautilus or Konqueror]
#Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".<hr />
:If you are not able to extract the file that way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. The steps to do that are as follows:
#Open a terminal.
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
#*<code>cd Desktop</code>
#Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
#*<code>ls essential*</code>
#Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
#*<code>tar -xjf <replace with filename></code> 

==Install the Codecs==
After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator). [[#copyAsRoot | (You may click here for command line directions)]]
#:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
##Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
##*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
##Go into the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential-...tar.bz2).
##Highlight all of the files in that directory.
##Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "copy" from that menu.
##Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##:You may need to create this directory.
##*You can create new directories in Nautilus by pressing these keys together 'Shift+Ctrl+N'.
##*(I tried to find out how to create new directories in Konqueror 3.5.5 on Debian Etch as of Jan25 07, but it kept locking up on me.)
##Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. '''If everything went well up to here, then you are finished. Skip to the end of the page.''' <div id="copyAsRoot"></div> <hr />
#:If you are not able to copy the files with a File Manager, follow these steps to copy the files using a [[command line]]/[[terminal]]:
##Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
##*<code>su</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo su</code>
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
##*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
##Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>
##*:If the directory /usr/local/lib/codecs/ does not exist, you will need to create it and then try copying the files again. To create the directory, use this command:
##*:*<code>mkdir /usr/local/lib/codecs</code>

Congratulations. Your codecs should be installed. Close and restart your video/audio player to try them out. If you are still having trouble playing any files, please post about it on the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Talk:Installing_Codecs&action=edit discussion] page.

WIKI AUTHORS:
If anyone knows the key combination to create a new folder in Konqueror, please post it here or on the discussion page. Thx. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:20, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Installing Codecs

2007-02-13T01:15:14Z

Sepero: Changing the page format. Unfinished

'''*THIS PAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION*'''

This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

Installing these codecs should allow you to play most video and audio files you can find on the internet. (avi, mp3, mov, etc.)

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
==Find the Webpage==
The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html

==Locate the Download Section==
Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT".

==Download the Codecs==
#On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
#*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
#*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
#*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US". 
#After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
##Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). [Nautilus or Konqueror]
##Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".<hr />
#:If you are not able to extract the file that way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. The steps to do that are as follows:
##Open a terminal.
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
##*<code>cd Desktop</code>
##Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
##*<code>ls essential*</code>
##Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
##*<code>tar -xjf <replace with filename></code> 
#After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator). [[#copyAsRoot | (You may click here for command line directions)]]
#:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
##Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
##*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
##Go into the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential-...tar.bz2).
##Highlight all of the files in that directory.
##Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "copy" from that menu.
##Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##:You may need to create this directory.
##*You can create new directories in Nautilus by pressing these keys together 'Shift+Ctrl+N'.
##*(I tried to find out how to create new directories in Konqueror 3.5.5 on Debian Etch as of Jan25 07, but it kept locking up on me.)
##Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. '''If everything went well up to here, then you are finished. Skip to the end of the page.''' <div id="copyAsRoot"></div> <hr />
#:If you are not able to copy the files with a File Manager, follow these steps to copy the files using a [[command line]]/[[terminal]]:
##Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
##*<code>su</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo su</code>
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
##*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
##Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>
##*:If the directory /usr/local/lib/codecs/ does not exist, you will need to create it and then try copying the files again. To create the directory, use this command:
##*:*<code>mkdir /usr/local/lib/codecs</code>

Congratulations. Your codecs should be installed. Close and restart your video/audio player to try them out. If you are still having trouble playing any files, please post about it on the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Talk:Installing_Codecs&action=edit discussion] page.

WIKI AUTHORS:
If anyone knows the key combination to create a new folder in Konqueror, please post it here or on the discussion page. Thx. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:20, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Talk:Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-02-13T00:44:14Z

Sepero: Deleted many resolved subjects on the talk page

Talk:Installing Codecs

2007-02-09T06:34:04Z

Sepero:

Also, I want to add "=See Also= Installing libdvdcss" to the bottom of the page, but would that be considered a codec too? If so, then installing it should be included on this page. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:41, January 25, 2007 (EST)
: I do not think it is of major importance if it is linked or included - just go ahead the way you want --[[User:ThorstenStaerk|ThorstenStaerk]] 16:57, February 5, 2007 (EST)

:: Yep yep. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 01:34, February 9, 2007 (EST)

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-02-05T04:29:14Z

Sepero: /* Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? */ Unified some formatting.

For the content of this Wikipage, the rough definition of a ''Linux Newbie'' has been:
:"Someone who has recently been introduced to, has started using, or has yet to use, Linux".

The question/answer process of this page is designed toward the goal of '''"How do I DO stuff in Linux?"''', Not [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions | "What is Linux?"]]. If you have a question that you think is common and should be added to the page, please [[#Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ! | read this]].

=How can I dualboot different Operating Systems on my computer?=
You should check [[#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | guides specific to your distribution]] first, to see if they have instructions that may better suit your system.
*[[Dual booting]]
*:Be sure to see the links on that page.
*http://www.jinx.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=39138

'''Dual Booting Macs'''
*[[Linux for Macintosh]]
*http://www.mactel-linux.org/wiki/Dual_Booting

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:

*http://polishlinux.org/choose/quiz/
*http://desktoplinuxathome.com/distro.html
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Fedora==
*[http://fedorasolved.org A site listing many HowTo's] (''fedorasolved.org'')
*:The Fedora Solved Project has been created by concerned peers in the Fedora Community to bring quality solutions to the Community.
*[[Fedora | The Fedora wiki page. Much info.]]

==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix | The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.]]

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis | The Mepis wiki page. Much info.]]

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (''suseroot.com'')
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (''www.novell.com'', ''en.opensuse.org'')
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ Opensuse Official Documentation - Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...]
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*[http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page Official Suse wiki pages.] (''susewiki.org'')
*[[Suse | The Suse wiki page. Much info.]]

==Ubuntu==
*[http://www.ubuntuguide.org/ Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).] (''ubuntuguide.org'')
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (''help.ubuntu.com'')
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (''help.ubuntu.com'')
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (''help.ubuntu.com'')
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (''help.ubuntu.com'')
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (''www.ubuntuforums.org'')
*[[Ubuntu | The Ubuntu wiki page. Much info.]]



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

[[Category:FAQ]]

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-02-05T04:25:28Z

Sepero: /* Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? */ Added Fedora

For the content of this Wikipage, the rough definition of a ''Linux Newbie'' has been:
:"Someone who has recently been introduced to, has started using, or has yet to use, Linux".

The question/answer process of this page is designed toward the goal of '''"How do I DO stuff in Linux?"''', Not [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions | "What is Linux?"]]. If you have a question that you think is common and should be added to the page, please [[#Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ! | read this]].

=How can I dualboot different Operating Systems on my computer?=
You should check [[#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | guides specific to your distribution]] first, to see if they have instructions that may better suit your system.
*[[Dual booting]]
*:Be sure to see the links on that page.
*http://www.jinx.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=39138

'''Dual Booting Macs'''
*[[Linux for Macintosh]]
*http://www.mactel-linux.org/wiki/Dual_Booting

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:

*http://polishlinux.org/choose/quiz/
*http://desktoplinuxathome.com/distro.html
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Fedora==
*[http://fedorasolved.org A site listing many HowTo's] (''fedorasolved.org'')
*:The Fedora Solved Project has been created by concerned peers in the Fedora Community to bring quality solutions to the Community.
*[[Fedora | The Fedora wiki page. Much info.]]

==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix | The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.]]

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis | The Mepis wiki page. Much info.]]

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ Opensuse Official Documentation - Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...]
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*[http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page Official Suse wiki pages.] (susewiki.org)
*[[Suse | The Suse wiki page. Much info.]]

==Ubuntu==
*[http://www.ubuntuguide.org/ Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).] (ubuntuguide.org)
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)
*[[Ubuntu | The Ubuntu wiki page. Much info.]]



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

[[Category:FAQ]]

Sed

2007-01-27T06:52:43Z

Sepero: /* Examples */ Please check your examples

'''sed''' ('''s'''tream '''ed'''itor) is an editor used, not interactively on text files (like [[vi]] or [[emacs]]), but on [[stream]]s. This allows it to transform text input from a pipe or the command line or a file (if it is piped to sed or given as an argument to sed).

sed supports [[regular expression]]s which gives it great control over what it can do to the input stream. Common applications of sed include parsing log files, replacing specific words/typos in a stream, and reading [[CSV]] files.

==Substitution==

The Substitute command is quite powerful. In its basic form, it consists of 's/old/new/g', which will replace all occurances of "old" with "new". Of course, the basic form can be changed significantly.

'''Regular Expressions''': [[Regular Expression]]s allow replacement of patterns instead of strings. sed uses the standard [-]*^ regex syntax. For example, 's/[0-9]*//g' will remove all numbers from the input.

'''Remembering the input''': sed can remember parts of the input pattern, and replace that section in the output file. This is done through the &, $, $, and \1-9 commands.

The & command, when used in the replacement pattern, is replaced with the input string. For example 's/[^ ]*/&&/g' will double the input. The commands allow for more precise work; any text between the first $ occurance and the first $ occurance can be placed into the output with \1. The second pair can be recalled with \2, and so on, up to \9. For example, 's/$[0-9]$$[0-9]*$/\2\1/g' will take numbers, and put the first digit of the input on the end of the output.

'''Multiple Substitutions''': Normally, sed can only make one substitution at a time; sed 's/old1/new1/g' 's/old2/new2' will not work. However, the -e option allows multiple commands. Place a "-e" before all commands: sed -e 's/old1/new1/g' -e 's/old2/new2/g'

==Examples==

One of the most common uses of <tt>sed</tt> is to make a quick substitution in a file or data stream. This is done with the following:
$ ''command'' | sed 's/''regexp''/''replacement''/g'
Here, <tt>''command''</tt> generates the input data, <tt>''regexp''</tt> is the text to search for and remove, and <tt>''replacement''</tt> is the new text to insert. The <tt>g</tt> suffix causes <tt>sed</tt> to make more than one replacement per input line as is usually intended.


<tt>sed</tt> is commonly also used as a pre-processing step before handing off to another program. A specific example of this would be to strip out all HTML tags from a file before passing the file to <tt>grep</tt> for the word ''internet''.
$ sed 's/<.*>//g' foobar.html | grep internet

<tt>sed</tt> also works for text editing tasks. For example, the command 
$ sed -e 's/foo $[^ ]*$/foo("\1")/g' -e 's/bar $[0-9]*$ $[^ ]*$/bar(\1, "\2")/' < inputfile.txt > outputfile.txt
will search the file <TT>inputfile.txt</TT> for all strings of the form <tt>foo something</tt> and replace them with <tt>foo("something")</tt>. It will also search for strings of the form <TT>bar 543543 something</tt> and replace them with <tt>bar(543543, "something")</tt>. It will then output the resulting file to outputfile.txt.

Examining the above command in more detail: the -e flags specify a new expression, allowing more than one replacement rule in the same command. The escaped-parentheses $ and $ tell sed to remember the string that was enclosed. The \1 and \2 commands tell sed to insert a remembered string; numbers 1-9 all work as expected. The [0-9]* and similar commands are just [[Regular Expression]]s.

==Sed scripts==

If you want to use a lot of [[commands]] you can save them as a sed_script.txt:
<tt><CODE><pre>
# this is a sed script
# usage: $ sed -f sed_script.txt textfile.txt > new_textfile.txt

# start replacing all things that must be replaced
# replace / with _
s/\//_/g
</pre></CODE></tt>

Running the script on textfile.txt:
<tt><CODE><pre>
$ sed -f sed_script.txt textfile.txt > new_textfile.txt
</pre></CODE></tt>

Another option is to save it as an [[executable]] [[script]] script.[[sh]]:
<tt><CODE><pre>
#!/usr/bin/sed -f
# save your commands in this script.sh; chmod u+x script.sh
# call it like so: $ ./script.sh textfile.txt > new_textfile.txt

# start replacing all things that must be replaced
# replace / with _
s/\//_/g
</pre></CODE></tt>

To execute the script on your textfile.txt:
<tt><CODE><pre>
$ chmod u+x script.sh
$ ./script.sh textfile.txt > new_textfile.txt
</pre></CODE></tt>

==External links==

*[http://man.linuxquestions.org/index.php?query=sed&section=0&type=2 sed man page]
*[http://www.gnu.org/software/sed/manual/sed.html GNU sed online manual]
*[http://www.student.northpark.edu/pemente/sed/sed1line52.txt Handy one-liners for sed]
*[http://www.itjungle.com/mpo/mpo092602-story04.html Sed, the Stream Editor by example]

==Sources==
*[http://muddcs.cs.hmc.edu/tech_docs/qref/sed.html An introduction to sed, with an example for sed -f and executable scripts]

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-27T01:38:16Z

Sepero: /* Which distro should I use? */ Added more distro choosers.

For the content of this Wikipage, the rough definition of a ''Linux Newbie'' has been:
:"Someone who has recently been introduced to, has started using, or has yet to use, Linux".

The question/answer process of this page is designed toward the goal of '''"How do I DO stuff in Linux?"''', Not [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions | "What is Linux?"]]. If you have a question that you think is common and should be added to the page, please [[#Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ! | read this]].

=How can I dualboot different Operating Systems on my computer?=
You should check [[#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | guides specific to your distribution]] first, to see if they have instructions that may better suit your system.
*[[Dual booting]]
*:Be sure to see the links on that page.
*http://www.jinx.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=39138

'''Dual Booting Macs'''
*[[Linux for Macintosh]]
*http://www.mactel-linux.org/wiki/Dual_Booting

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:

*http://polishlinux.org/choose/quiz/
*http://desktoplinuxathome.com/distro.html
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix | The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.]]

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis | The Mepis wiki page. Much info.]]

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ Opensuse Official Documentation - Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...]
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*[http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page Official Suse wiki pages.] (susewiki.org)
*[[Suse | The Suse wiki page. Much info.]]

==Ubuntu==
*[http://www.ubuntuguide.org/ Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).] (ubuntuguide.org)
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)
*[[Ubuntu | The Ubuntu wiki page. Much info.]]



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

[[Category:FAQ]]

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-27T00:53:42Z

Sepero: Added page header / Introduction

For the content of this Wikipage, the rough definition of a ''Linux Newbie'' has been:
:"Someone who has recently been introduced to, has started using, or has yet to use, Linux".

The question/answer process of this page is designed toward the goal of '''"How do I DO stuff in Linux?"''', Not [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions | "What is Linux?"]]. If you have a question that you think is common and should be added to the page, please [[#Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ! | read this]].

=How can I dualboot different Operating Systems on my computer?=
You should check [[#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | guides specific to your distribution]] first, to see if they have instructions that may better suit your system.
*[[Dual booting]]
*:Be sure to see the links on that page.
*http://www.jinx.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=39138

'''Dual Booting Macs'''
*[[Linux for Macintosh]]
*http://www.mactel-linux.org/wiki/Dual_Booting

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix | The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.]]

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis | The Mepis wiki page. Much info.]]

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ Opensuse Official Documentation - Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...]
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*[http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page Official Suse wiki pages.] (susewiki.org)
*[[Suse | The Suse wiki page. Much info.]]

==Ubuntu==
*[http://www.ubuntuguide.org/ Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).] (ubuntuguide.org)
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)
*[[Ubuntu | The Ubuntu wiki page. Much info.]]



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

[[Category:FAQ]]

Installing Codecs

2007-01-27T00:30:37Z

Sepero: Small format change

This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

Installing these codecs should allow you to play most video and audio files you can find on the internet. (avi, mp3, mov, etc.)

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
#The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html 
#Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. 
#Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT". 
#On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
#*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
#*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
#*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US". 
#After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
##Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). [Nautilus or Konqueror]
##Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".<hr />
#:If you are not able to extract the file that way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. The steps to do that are as follows:
##Open a terminal.
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
##*<code>cd Desktop</code>
##Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
##*<code>ls essential*</code>
##Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
##*<code>tar -xjf <replace with filename></code> 
#After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator). [[#copyAsRoot | (You may click here for command line directions)]]
#:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
##Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
##*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
##Go into the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential-...tar.bz2).
##Highlight all of the files in that directory.
##Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "copy" from that menu.
##Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##:You may need to create this directory.
##*You can create new directories in Nautilus by pressing these keys together 'Shift+Ctrl+N'.
##*(I tried to find out how to create new directories in Konqueror 3.5.5 on Debian Etch as of Jan25 07, but it kept locking up on me.)
##Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. '''If everything went well up to here, then you are finished. Skip to the end of the page.''' <div id="copyAsRoot"></div> <hr />
#:If you are not able to copy the files with a File Manager, follow these steps to copy the files using a [[command line]]/[[terminal]]:
##Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
##*<code>su</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo su</code>
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
##*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
##Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>
##*:If the directory /usr/local/lib/codecs/ does not exist, you will need to create it and then try copying the files again. To create the directory, use this command:
##*:*<code>mkdir /usr/local/lib/codecs</code>

Congratulations. Your codecs should be installed. Close and restart your video/audio player to try them out. If you are still having trouble playing any files, please post about it on the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Talk:Installing_Codecs&action=edit discussion] page.

WIKI AUTHORS:
If anyone knows the key combination to create a new folder in Konqueror, please post it here or on the discussion page. Thx. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:20, January 25, 2007 (EST)

User talk:Xoke

2007-01-26T10:28:15Z

Sepero:

Very cool info about yourself, Xoke. Glad you like Ubuntu. I've been using Linux since about 2002. I see you've been editing some pages; we all appreciate it. I hope to see you around here some more. Thx --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:28, January 26, 2007 (EST)

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-26T02:53:55Z

Sepero: Re-Hid some web links. Questy's formatting appeared better.

=How can I dualboot different Operating Systems on my computer?=
You should check [[#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | guides specific to your distribution]] first, to see if they have instructions that may better suit your system.
*[[Dual booting]]
*:Be sure to see the links on that page.
*http://www.jinx.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=39138

'''Dual Booting Macs'''
*[[Linux for Macintosh]]
*http://www.mactel-linux.org/wiki/Dual_Booting

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix | The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.]]

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis | The Mepis wiki page. Much info.]]

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ Opensuse Official Documentation - Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...]
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*[http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page Official Suse wiki pages.] (susewiki.org)
*[[Suse | The Suse wiki page. Much info.]]

==Ubuntu==
*[http://www.ubuntuguide.org/ Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).] (ubuntuguide.org)
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)
*[[Ubuntu | The Ubuntu wiki page. Much info.]]



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-26T02:43:20Z

Sepero:

=How can I dualboot different Operating Systems on my computer?=
You should check [[#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | guides specific to your distribution]] first, to see if they have instructions that may better suit your system.
*[[Dual booting]]
*:Be sure to see the links on that page.
*http://www.jinx.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=39138

'''Dual Booting Macs'''
*[[Linux for Macintosh]]
*http://www.mactel-linux.org/wiki/Dual_Booting

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix]]
*:The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis]]
*:The Mepis wiki page.

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/
**:Opensuse Official Documentation - Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html
**:Installation, quick view.
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Official Suse wiki pages.
*[[Suse]]
*:The Suse wiki page. Much info.

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)
*[[Ubuntu]]
*:The Ubuntu wiki page. Much info.



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Talk:Installing Codecs

2007-01-26T01:40:37Z

Sepero: deleted old discussion

Installing Codecs

2007-01-26T01:38:57Z

Sepero: Major Reformatting

=Introduction=
This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

Installing these codecs should allow you to play most video and audio files you can find on the internet. (avi, mp3, mov, etc.)

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
==Go to Mplayer website to find codecs==
The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html

Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print.

Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT". This table lists the codecs available for you to install.

==Download the codecs==
On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers.
----
'''Selecting which file to download:'''
*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". ('''***If you are unsure, choose this option.***''')

*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)

*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US".

==Unzip/Extract the file you downloaded==
After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
#Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). [Nautilus or Konqueror]
#Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".

===Unzip/Extract with Terminal===
If you are not able to extract the file that way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. The steps to do that are as follows:
#Open a [[terminal]].
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
#*<code>cd Desktop</code>
#Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
#*<code>ls essential*</code>
#Extract the file contents by running this command on the file. (''You may have to replace "''essential*''" with the actual filename.'')
#*<code>tar -xjf essential*</code>

==Install/Copy codecs on your system==
After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator). [[#Install/Copy codecs with Terminal | (You may click here for terminal/commandline directions)]]
:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
#Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
#*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
#:or
#*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
#Go into the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential-...tar.bz2).
#Highlight all of the files in that directory.
#Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "copy" from that menu.
#Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#:You may need to create this directory.
#*You can create new directories in Nautilus by pressing these keys together 'Shift+Ctrl+N'.
#*(I tried to find out how to create new directories in Konqueror 3.5.5 on Debian Etch as of Jan25 07, but it kept locking up on me.)
#Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'.

'''If everything went well up to here, then you are finished. Skip to the end of the page.'''

===Install/Copy codecs with Terminal===
:If you are not able to copy the files with a File Manager, follow these steps to copy the files using a [[command line]]/[[terminal]]:
#Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
#*<code>su</code>
#:or
#*<code>sudo su</code>
#Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
#*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
#Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>
#*:If the directory /usr/local/lib/codecs/ does not exist, you will need to create it and then try copying the files again. To create the directory, use this command:
#*:*<code>mkdir /usr/local/lib/codecs</code>

Congratulations. Your codecs should be installed. Close and restart your video/audio player to try them out. If you are still having trouble playing any files, please post about it on the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Talk:Installing_Codecs&action=edit discussion] page.

WIKI AUTHORS:
If anyone knows the key combination to create a new folder in Konqueror, please post it here or on the discussion page. Thx. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:20, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Talk:Trivial usability

2007-01-25T09:19:59Z

Sepero: excellent

ThorstenStaerk, I don't particularly care for the chosen page name, because I think something like "Increasing usability"/"Improving program usability" would be better. As for the page itself, awsome. Excellent layout and excellent points made. The page itself is Just excellent! --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 04:19, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Talk:Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T08:49:32Z

Sepero: /* Private messages */ Questynux ThorstenStaerk

=Gathered notes, discussion summary=
Please don't discuss stuff here, do so in the "discussion" section, after the horizontal line. See note there.

'''Linux Newbie Definition'''

Someone who has recently been introduced to, has started using, or has yet to use, Linux.

(This definition is welcome to elaboration, but was the general idea when I created this page.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:29, January 15, 2007 (EST))

'''Todo list'''

The wiki page for installing codecs has started, but is unfinished.

'''Formatting'''

*This is good practice to start a line of comment regarding a line in a bullet list (like this one) with a "*:" wiki code. This makes it clearer what the comment is relating to in the organisation of the information.
*:Just like this...
*: See http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Wiki_markup#Indented_numbered_lists
*: See example number 5 and 6 of the Organizing_your_writing section of this link :
*::http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing_tips_and_tricks#Organizing_your_writing

'''Talk page organisation'''

The "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section is intended to provide a quick view of the the article's writing status whithout delving into pages of discussion. As the name indicates the "Discussion" section is the place for that.
;Someone has an idea for a better title than "Gathered notes, discussion summary" ?...

----

=Discussion=
This is where the real talking goes, please don't put any talking in the "Gathered notes, discussion summary". If you want to discuss something that has been put in the "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section, please do so here. You can copy the stuff to discuss about from the "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section so that we can have a easier base for discussion.

==Contents==

Q: How is "Linux Newbie FAQ" different from [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]? 
A: The "LN FAQ" should not include subjects on "How do I wiki stuff". It should answer questions directed more towards "How to DO stuff in Linux" and where to find that information. Also, EVERY question should try to be answered with a link to some other page. Unfortunately, some answers do not exist or cannot be found on other webpages. For those cases, an in-page answer will temporarily suffice, but if the answer is more than a paragraph long (like [[Installing_Codecs]]), a new wikipage should generally be created. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 20:14, January 24, 2007 (EST)

'''Links'''
I changed some wording in the "Newbies, help improve this FAQ!" section to emphasize the importance of links. This page could not possibly hold the answer to every newbie question. Instead of trying to directly answer questions, it should link to other (more knowledgeable) resources whenever possible. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 04:14, January 24, 2007 (EST)

http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where_can_I_get_information_to_learn_more_about_using_my_specific_distribution.3F
:I think we shouldn't put too much information there. Details about each distribution can be found in its own dedicated page. The tips & tricks about suse are not for newbies for instance. Just my two cents. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 15:13, January 13, 2007 (EST)
::I have not looked over the "Tips+Tricks" stuff for Suse, but it should be Newbie related. Same goes all links on the page; I have not had the chance (or even much desire) to look at them all. If it is not Newbie related, I think it should be removed.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:19, January 15, 2007 (EST)
:Replaced non relevant tips and tricks links with more newbie oriented ones [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:23, January 23, 2007 (EST)
::That's good. I re-added the Suse wiki site.

I added a link to the "See also" section to [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]. Seems like a kind of mixed up wiki page that may have "tried" to be what this wiki page is doing correctly... Perhaps guidance is the key? So far, with your help Questy, this page is shaping up to be exactly what I hoped for. :) (except you've totally ruined the discussion page. lol ;) We'll get discussion cleaned up later.) I assume you're the one that wrote the comment about IRC/forums? --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:48, January 16, 2007 (EST)

:I don't think we should delete the talking sections, this is not the same as editing the article, you need to see everything that has been said or you get a distorted view of the discussion process. You could argue that there is a page history but i think people wouldn't think there could be pieces of the discussion that could have been deleted. My view on this matter is you delete nothing of the discussion or you delete all of it. So i guess that would be let's keep everything.
:I have seen the page [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]], but i didn't take the time to read it though so i can't tell really.
:Nope i never talked about IRC stuff on this wiki... [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 19:34, January 17, 2007 (EST)

==Todo list==

We need a Wiki page for installing audio/video codecs. I was not even able to find a weblink I considered "good". This is a HIGHLY HIGHLY common problem for newbies. The wiki page should not be distro specific. [[Installing_Codecs]] It should lay out a clear number of steps from start to finish on installing codecs. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:39, January 12, 2007 (EST)


:Let's call it Installing video and audio codecs ? ( can't hurt to be precise ). [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 12:01, January 12, 2007 (EST)

::I have to disagree with you on this. I don't think the newbie should even have to 'think' audio/video. (It would be best if they didn't have to think codec either.) They just know they have a "codec" problem, and it needs to be solved. Whatever the guide, they should be able to install ALL codecs, and not have to worry about codecs again for years. (or until their next install)--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 06:05, January 13, 2007 (EST)

:::Umm... The bad news is that sometimes i can write ambiguous messages. The good news is you don't have to disagree since i was just talking about the name to give to the page. The newbie won't even have to know it to get directed to it anyway so all is well. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:23, January 13, 2007 (EST)

I have begun the page [[Installing_Codecs]]. (Oops, forgot --Sepero)

==Formatting==

Questy, is there any specific reason you are using "*:" on the page instead of just ":"? I'm not a pro at wiki editing, so let me know if there is a valid reason. Some are one way, while some are the other. For now, I'm going to reset them to ":" to keep a common format style.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 04:49, January 12, 2007 (EST)


:{|
|
http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Wiki_markup#Indented_numbered_lists

See example number 5 and 6 of the Organizing_your_writing section of this link :
http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing_tips_and_tricks#Organizing_your_writing

I am not a pro either ( i didn't even know how to write a wiki 2 or 3 weeks from now ). The reason i put a '*:' is that the line that it indents is related to the preceding line ( it is a comment on the previous link ), so it is indented relative to it. If you don't indent it relative to it, it sometimes can be confusing because you don't know precisely if it it has something to do with it.
For instance when you put "Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere." it's not clear if it's a comment relating to the previous line or to the next one.

[http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Linux_Newbie_FAQ&oldid=30465#Where_can_I_get_books_or_guides_to_learn_more_about_using_Linux_in_general_.3F In this version of the article], when you put "More advanced howto's and guides." as a simple indent, one can wonder if you are about to put more links about more advanced howtos after that because it is not clear it is related to the previous link ( of course i knew it but at first glance it is confusing ). See how "More advanced howto's and guides." is far away from the line it is relating to, see how the other lines from the unordered list are all packed together, this is not natural, this is not a logical organisation of content. "*:" is very well suited in this case in my opinion, because it is there to make an indentation relative to list item ( here "http://www.tldp.org/" ), it leaves no doubt that this indented line has something to say about the previous link.
[[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 11:42, January 12, 2007 (EST)
|}
::If it helps in reading the wiki source, then I am generally for it. I'm more used to reading source code from programming languages, so perhaps I'm better able to decypher things that look like crap. I do always have one goal in mind, and that is to Keep It Simple As Possible. That is why I prefered the ":" way. Your request seems quite reasonable though and makes sense. I have reset the formatting.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:57, January 13, 2007 (EST)

:::Yeah, nice :) [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:26, January 13, 2007 (EST)

==Talk page organisation==
Do you know any other name more suited for the "The Talking" section ? Discussion, Forum, etc... ? [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 19:32, January 13, 2007 (EST)
:"The Talking" seems super lame. We'll change it later. ;)--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:29, January 15, 2007 (EST)

::See here: http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Talk_Pages --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:24, January 17, 2007 (EST)
:I replaced with "Gathered notes, discussion summary" and "Discussion" summary for now. Should find better though. Anyone has a thought on this ?... [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 20:53, January 17, 2007 (EST)
::Looks fine. I'd like to see a lot of the old discussion on this page deleted though. Much of it no longer serves a purpose.

==Private messages==
CONTINUED Thanks Questy. I look at the change logs, you and ThorstenStaerk keep coming up again and again. Not just on this page but several others. You guys are like machines or something. ha I wish I had the time. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:49, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Thank you, ThorstenStaerk and Questynux for helping out with this page.
--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:30, January 11, 2007 (EST)

:You're welcome, this serves a common goal. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 22:55, January 11, 2007 (EST)
::Very cool. Let us hope more join in.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:57, January 13, 2007 (EST)

Glad to see you back for a bit, ThorstenStaerk. I thought maybe you had left us. Thanks for the spelling correction. ;) --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 20:07, January 16, 2007 (EST)

I feel honored :) [[User:ThorstenStaerk|Thorsten]]

Talk:Installing Codecs

2007-01-25T08:41:13Z

Sepero: libdvdcss

I'm not very happy with the final result of this page. It now has all of the content that I wanted to include (except the part about Konqueror), but I don't like the formatting. It's kind of messy (the wiki/html and the actual page). I would like to separate the CLI steps from the GUI steps, but only steps 5 and 6 actually deal with that content and if I modified only those sections, it would only make the actual page look slightly better, but probably make the wiki/html look worse. I'm not exactly sure of how to approach it at this moment, and now that the wiki has all the needed content, it's not very high on my priority list.

I was thinking about reorganizing the content of the Entire page to accommodate a separation of the CLI/GUI content. I dunno. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:32, January 25, 2007 (EST)

:I appear to be talking about the "Entire page" here. I really mean just the "Full Guide" section. :) --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:35, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Also, I want to add "=See Also= Installing libdvdcss" to the bottom of the page, but would that be considered a codec too? If so, then installing it should be included on this page. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:41, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Talk:Installing Codecs

2007-01-25T08:35:58Z

Sepero:

Talk:Installing Codecs

2007-01-25T08:32:03Z

Sepero:

Installing Codecs

2007-01-25T08:20:25Z

Sepero: Second draft. Much more complete than first.

=Introduction=
This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

Installing these codecs should allow you to play most video and audio files you can find on the internet. (avi, mp3, mov, etc.)

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
#The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html 
#Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. 
#Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT". 
#On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
#*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
#*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
#*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US". 
#After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
##Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). [Nautilus or Konqueror]
##Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".<hr />
#:If you are not able to extract the file that way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. The steps to do that are as follows:
##Open a terminal.
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
##*<code>cd Desktop</code>
##Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
##*<code>ls essential*</code>
##Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
##*<code>tar -xjf <replace with filename></code> 
#After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator). [[#copyAsRoot | (You may click here for command line directions)]]
#:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
##Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
##*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
##Go into the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential-...tar.bz2).
##Highlight all of the files in that directory.
##Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "copy" from that menu.
##Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##:You may need to create this directory.
##*You can create new directories in Nautilus by pressing these keys together 'Shift+Ctrl+N'.
##*(I tried to find out how to create new directories in Konqueror 3.5.5 on Debian Etch as of Jan25 07, but it kept locking up on me.)
##Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. '''If everything went well up to here, then you are finished. Skip to the end of the page.''' <div id="copyAsRoot"></div> <hr />
#:If you are not able to copy the files with a File Manager, follow these steps to copy the files using a [[command line]]/[[terminal]]:
##Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
##*<code>su</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo su</code>
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] ("Desktop/essential-20061022/"?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
##*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
##Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>
##*:If the directory /usr/local/lib/codecs/ does not exist, you will need to create it and then try copying the files again. To create the directory, use this command:
##*:*<code>mkdir /usr/local/lib/codecs</code>

Congratulations. Your codecs should be installed. Close and restart your video/audio player to try them out. If you are still having trouble playing any files, please post about it on the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Talk:Installing_Codecs&action=edit discussion] page.

WIKI AUTHORS:
If anyone knows the key combination to create a new folder in Konqueror, please post it here or on the discussion page. Thx. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 03:20, January 25, 2007 (EST)

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T01:30:00Z

Sepero: /* Suse */ Added Suse wikipage. + Moded some of the links so that URLs are showing.

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix]]
*:The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis]]
*:The Mepis wiki page.

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/
**:Opensuse Official Documentation - Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html
**:Installation, quick view.
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Official Suse wiki pages.
*[[Suse]]
*:The Suse wiki page. Much info.

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)
*[[Ubuntu]]
*:The Ubuntu wiki page. Much info.



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T01:25:39Z

Sepero: /* Ubuntu */ Added Ubuntu wikipage link

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix]]
*:The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis]]
*:The Mepis wiki page.

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Suse wiki pages

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)
*[[Ubuntu]]
*:The Ubuntu wiki page. Much info.



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T01:24:34Z

Sepero: /* Knoppix */

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
*[[Knoppix]]
*:The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis]]
*:The Mepis wiki page.

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Suse wiki pages

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T01:23:58Z

Sepero: /* Mepis */ Added Mepis wikipage

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
[[Knoppix]]
*:The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679
*[[Mepis]]
*:The Mepis wiki page.

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Suse wiki pages

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T01:21:01Z

Sepero: /* Knoppix */ Added Knoppix wiki page

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!
[[Knoppix]]
*:The Knoppix wiki page. Much info.

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Suse wiki pages

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T01:17:09Z

Sepero: /* See also */ Added summaries for links

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Suse wiki pages

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*:Explains common terms about Linux for someone who wishes to learn more about what processes make Linux what it is.
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*:A page explaining many random topics.
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Talk:Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T01:14:09Z

Sepero:

=Gathered notes, discussion summary=
Please don't discuss stuff here, do so in the "discussion" section, after the horizontal line. See note there.

'''Linux Newbie Definition'''

Someone who has recently been introduced to, has started using, or has yet to use, Linux.

(This definition is welcome to elaboration, but was the general idea when I created this page.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:29, January 15, 2007 (EST))

'''Todo list'''

The wiki page for installing codecs has started, but is unfinished.

'''Formatting'''

*This is good practice to start a line of comment regarding a line in a bullet list (like this one) with a "*:" wiki code. This makes it clearer what the comment is relating to in the organisation of the information.
*:Just like this...
*: See http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Wiki_markup#Indented_numbered_lists
*: See example number 5 and 6 of the Organizing_your_writing section of this link :
*::http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing_tips_and_tricks#Organizing_your_writing

'''Talk page organisation'''

The "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section is intended to provide a quick view of the the article's writing status whithout delving into pages of discussion. As the name indicates the "Discussion" section is the place for that.
;Someone has an idea for a better title than "Gathered notes, discussion summary" ?...

----

=Discussion=
This is where the real talking goes, please don't put any talking in the "Gathered notes, discussion summary". If you want to discuss something that has been put in the "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section, please do so here. You can copy the stuff to discuss about from the "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section so that we can have a easier base for discussion.

==Contents==

Q: How is "Linux Newbie FAQ" different from [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]? 
A: The "LN FAQ" should not include subjects on "How do I wiki stuff". It should answer questions directed more towards "How to DO stuff in Linux" and where to find that information. Also, EVERY question should try to be answered with a link to some other page. Unfortunately, some answers do not exist or cannot be found on other webpages. For those cases, an in-page answer will temporarily suffice, but if the answer is more than a paragraph long (like [[Installing_Codecs]]), a new wikipage should generally be created. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 20:14, January 24, 2007 (EST)

'''Links'''
I changed some wording in the "Newbies, help improve this FAQ!" section to emphasize the importance of links. This page could not possibly hold the answer to every newbie question. Instead of trying to directly answer questions, it should link to other (more knowledgeable) resources whenever possible. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 04:14, January 24, 2007 (EST)

http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where_can_I_get_information_to_learn_more_about_using_my_specific_distribution.3F
:I think we shouldn't put too much information there. Details about each distribution can be found in its own dedicated page. The tips & tricks about suse are not for newbies for instance. Just my two cents. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 15:13, January 13, 2007 (EST)
::I have not looked over the "Tips+Tricks" stuff for Suse, but it should be Newbie related. Same goes all links on the page; I have not had the chance (or even much desire) to look at them all. If it is not Newbie related, I think it should be removed.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:19, January 15, 2007 (EST)
:Replaced non relevant tips and tricks links with more newbie oriented ones [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:23, January 23, 2007 (EST)
::That's good. I re-added the Suse wiki site.

I added a link to the "See also" section to [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]. Seems like a kind of mixed up wiki page that may have "tried" to be what this wiki page is doing correctly... Perhaps guidance is the key? So far, with your help Questy, this page is shaping up to be exactly what I hoped for. :) (except you've totally ruined the discussion page. lol ;) We'll get discussion cleaned up later.) I assume you're the one that wrote the comment about IRC/forums? --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:48, January 16, 2007 (EST)

:I don't think we should delete the talking sections, this is not the same as editing the article, you need to see everything that has been said or you get a distorted view of the discussion process. You could argue that there is a page history but i think people wouldn't think there could be pieces of the discussion that could have been deleted. My view on this matter is you delete nothing of the discussion or you delete all of it. So i guess that would be let's keep everything.
:I have seen the page [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]], but i didn't take the time to read it though so i can't tell really.
:Nope i never talked about IRC stuff on this wiki... [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 19:34, January 17, 2007 (EST)

==Todo list==

We need a Wiki page for installing audio/video codecs. I was not even able to find a weblink I considered "good". This is a HIGHLY HIGHLY common problem for newbies. The wiki page should not be distro specific. [[Installing_Codecs]] It should lay out a clear number of steps from start to finish on installing codecs. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:39, January 12, 2007 (EST)


:Let's call it Installing video and audio codecs ? ( can't hurt to be precise ). [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 12:01, January 12, 2007 (EST)

::I have to disagree with you on this. I don't think the newbie should even have to 'think' audio/video. (It would be best if they didn't have to think codec either.) They just know they have a "codec" problem, and it needs to be solved. Whatever the guide, they should be able to install ALL codecs, and not have to worry about codecs again for years. (or until their next install)--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 06:05, January 13, 2007 (EST)

:::Umm... The bad news is that sometimes i can write ambiguous messages. The good news is you don't have to disagree since i was just talking about the name to give to the page. The newbie won't even have to know it to get directed to it anyway so all is well. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:23, January 13, 2007 (EST)

I have begun the page [[Installing_Codecs]]. (Oops, forgot --Sepero)

==Formatting==

Questy, is there any specific reason you are using "*:" on the page instead of just ":"? I'm not a pro at wiki editing, so let me know if there is a valid reason. Some are one way, while some are the other. For now, I'm going to reset them to ":" to keep a common format style.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 04:49, January 12, 2007 (EST)


:{|
|
http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Wiki_markup#Indented_numbered_lists

See example number 5 and 6 of the Organizing_your_writing section of this link :
http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing_tips_and_tricks#Organizing_your_writing

I am not a pro either ( i didn't even know how to write a wiki 2 or 3 weeks from now ). The reason i put a '*:' is that the line that it indents is related to the preceding line ( it is a comment on the previous link ), so it is indented relative to it. If you don't indent it relative to it, it sometimes can be confusing because you don't know precisely if it it has something to do with it.
For instance when you put "Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere." it's not clear if it's a comment relating to the previous line or to the next one.

[http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Linux_Newbie_FAQ&oldid=30465#Where_can_I_get_books_or_guides_to_learn_more_about_using_Linux_in_general_.3F In this version of the article], when you put "More advanced howto's and guides." as a simple indent, one can wonder if you are about to put more links about more advanced howtos after that because it is not clear it is related to the previous link ( of course i knew it but at first glance it is confusing ). See how "More advanced howto's and guides." is far away from the line it is relating to, see how the other lines from the unordered list are all packed together, this is not natural, this is not a logical organisation of content. "*:" is very well suited in this case in my opinion, because it is there to make an indentation relative to list item ( here "http://www.tldp.org/" ), it leaves no doubt that this indented line has something to say about the previous link.
[[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 11:42, January 12, 2007 (EST)
|}
::If it helps in reading the wiki source, then I am generally for it. I'm more used to reading source code from programming languages, so perhaps I'm better able to decypher things that look like crap. I do always have one goal in mind, and that is to Keep It Simple As Possible. That is why I prefered the ":" way. Your request seems quite reasonable though and makes sense. I have reset the formatting.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:57, January 13, 2007 (EST)

:::Yeah, nice :) [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:26, January 13, 2007 (EST)

==Talk page organisation==
Do you know any other name more suited for the "The Talking" section ? Discussion, Forum, etc... ? [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 19:32, January 13, 2007 (EST)
:"The Talking" seems super lame. We'll change it later. ;)--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:29, January 15, 2007 (EST)

::See here: http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Talk_Pages --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:24, January 17, 2007 (EST)
:I replaced with "Gathered notes, discussion summary" and "Discussion" summary for now. Should find better though. Anyone has a thought on this ?... [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 20:53, January 17, 2007 (EST)
::Looks fine. I'd like to see a lot of the old discussion on this page deleted though. Much of it no longer serves a purpose.

==Private messages==
Thank you, ThorstenStaerk and Questynux for helping out with this page.
--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:30, January 11, 2007 (EST)


:You're welcome, this serves a common goal. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 22:55, January 11, 2007 (EST)
::Very cool. Let us hope more join in.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:57, January 13, 2007 (EST)

Glad to see you back for a bit, ThorstenStaerk. I thought maybe you had left us. Thanks for the spelling correction. ;) --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 20:07, January 16, 2007 (EST)

I feel honored :) [[User:ThorstenStaerk|Thorsten]]

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-25T00:50:14Z

Sepero: Moved LinuxIntro link higher in the page

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*:Sectioned guide on learning to do specific tasks with Linux.

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Suse wiki pages

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Installing Codecs

2007-01-25T00:29:29Z

Sepero: Reverted - good weblink, wrong wiki page. "This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs..."

=Introduction=
This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
#The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html 
#Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. 
#Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT". 
#On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
#*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
#*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
#*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US". 
#After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
##Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). [Nautilus or Konqueror]
##Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".<hr />
#:If you are not able to extract the file that way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. The steps to do that are as follows:
##Open a terminal.
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
##*<code>cd Desktop</code>
##Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
##*<code>ls essential*</code>
##Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
##*<code>tar -xjf <replace with filename></code> 
#After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator).
#:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
##Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
##*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
##Go into the [[directory]] (Desktop/essential?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
##Highlight all of the files in that directory.
##Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "copy" from that menu.
##Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. <hr />
#:If you are not able to copy the files with a File Manager, follow these steps to copy the files using a [[command line]]/[[terminal]]:
##Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
##*<code>su</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo su</code>
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] (Desktop/essential?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
##*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
##Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>

For the most part, your codecs should be installed. Congratulations. This guide isn't 100% complete, but for now it should suit the fairly intermediate user.

EDITORS:
I do not know the name of the directory created by the "essential*.tar.bz2" file. When it is found out, it should be placed above in the sections copying the files. [ie. "the directory (Desktop/essential?)" to "the directory (Desktop/<unknown dir>?)"]
:I found out the dir for the current archive (essential-20061022.tar.bz2) is "essential-20061022". On my system (debian), I also had to create the dir "/usr/local/lib/codecs/". After that, xine recognized the new codecs immediately. These steps should be added.

Installing Codecs

2007-01-24T10:32:29Z

Sepero: /* Full Guide */ Added to editor notes.

=Introduction=
This guide is meant to be a way to generically install Linux codecs on virtually any distribution. It should keep the New User in mind, and not get too technical without explanation.

Codecs cannot come pre-installed on most Linux distributions because of [[patent]] and/or [[copyright]] issues.

=Quick Steps=
#Go to the "'''Binary Codec Packages'''" section of this page http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html
#In the table on that section, find and download the "Linux x86" file from "US".
#Unzip/Untar the file on your system. (tar -xjf filname)
#Copy or move the contents to this location '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
#You should now be able to play the latest Videos, Audios, and Streaming Media.

=Full Guide=
#The Codecs you need can be found on the download page of the Mplayer website, located at http://www.mplayerhq.hu/design7/dload.html 
#Scroll down the page until you see section "Binary Codec Packages" in large print. 
#Below the "Binary Codec Packages" there will be a table with the headings "DESCRIPTION HTTP FTP BT". 
#On the left side of the table is a selection of codecs for PC (x86), Macintosh (PPC), AMD64bit, and other [[architecture]]s. Through the center, you will see different language selections for these available codecs. These look like "[ CH | HU | US | RS | KR ] [ CH | HU | RS | KR | DE ]". The "US" selections are for English speakers. <hr /> '''Selecting which file to download:'''
#*If your machine is a [[PC]], '''download''' the file across from "Linux x86" marked "US". (If you are unsure, choose this option.)
#*If your machine is a Macintosh computer, download the file across from "Linux PPC" marked "US". (Unless you have an Intel [[CPU]]/[[Processor]], then you will choose [Same as choice above] the "Linux x86" row, and "US" option.)
#*If you have a newer AMD64bit (or Intel 64bit?) [[Processor]] computer, download the file across from "Linux AMD64" marked "US". 
#After downloading the file, you will need to uncompress the contents. You may be able the easily uncompress the file by:
##Opening the [[directory]] where the file is located with your [[File Manager]](explorer). [Nautilus or Konqueror]
##Right-click on the file and choosing "Extract".<hr />
#:If you are not able to extract the file that way, you will have to use a [[command line]]/[[terminal]] to extract the file. The steps to do that are as follows:
##Open a terminal.
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to your Desktop (or whichever directory you saved the file to).
##*<code>cd Desktop</code>
##Make sure you are in the correct [[directory]] by 'listing' the file. This command should show that the file exists. (If doesn't list anything, then you are probably in the wrong [[directory]], or there was a problem saving the file.)
##*<code>ls essential*</code>
##Extract the file contents by running this command on the file.
##*<code>tar -xjf <replace with filename></code> 
#After you have the file extracted/unzipped, you will need to copy them to the proper location. This must be done as '[[root]]' user (aka administrator).
#:To install them as '[[root]]' user with your File Manager (Nautilus or Konqueror), run the following from a terminal:
##Open a terminal and run your File Manager as root:
##*<code>gksu nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>kdesu konqueror</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo nautilus</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo konqueror</code>
##Go into the [[directory]] (Desktop/essential?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
##Highlight all of the files in that directory.
##Right click on one of the files, and a menu should appear. Choose "copy" from that menu.
##Now go to the [[directory]] '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##Click "Edit' from the top menu of your File Manager, then on the drop down menu, click 'Paste'. <hr />
#:If you are not able to copy the files with a File Manager, follow these steps to copy the files using a [[command line]]/[[terminal]]:
##Open a terminal, and login as '[[root]]' user.
##*<code>su</code>
##:or
##*<code>sudo su</code>
##Enter the command to ''''c'''hange [[directory | '''d'''irectory]]' to the [[directory]] (Desktop/essential?) that was created by extracting the file (essential...tar.bz2).
##*<code>cd Desktop/essential</code>
##Copy all the files from that location to '''/usr/local/lib/codecs/'''
##*<code>cp -a * /usr/local/lib/codecs/</code>

For the most part, your codecs should be installed. Congratulations. This guide isn't 100% complete, but for now it should suit the fairly intermediate user.

EDITORS:
I do not know the name of the directory created by the "essential*.tar.bz2" file. When it is found out, it should be placed above in the sections copying the files. [ie. "the directory (Desktop/essential?)" to "the directory (Desktop/<unknown dir>?)"]
:I found out the dir for the current archive (essential-20061022.tar.bz2) is "essential-20061022". On my system (debian), I also had to create the dir "/usr/local/lib/codecs/". After that, xine recognized the new codecs immediately. These steps should be added.

Talk:Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-24T09:14:21Z

Sepero: Emphasized web page links

=Gathered notes, discussion summary=
Please don't discuss stuff here, do so in the "discussion" section, after the horizontal line. See note there.

'''Linux Newbie Definition'''

Someone who has recently been introduced to, has started using, or has yet to use, Linux.

(This definition is welcome to elaboration, but was the general idea when I created this page.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:29, January 15, 2007 (EST))

'''Todo list'''

The wiki page for installing codecs has started, but is unfinished.

'''Formatting'''

*This is good practice to start a line of comment regarding a line in a bullet list (like this one) with a "*:" wiki code. This makes it clearer what the comment is relating to in the organisation of the information.
*:Just like this...
*: See http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Wiki_markup#Indented_numbered_lists
*: See example number 5 and 6 of the Organizing_your_writing section of this link :
*::http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing_tips_and_tricks#Organizing_your_writing

'''Talk page organisation'''

The "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section is intended to provide a quick view of the the article's writing status whithout delving into pages of discussion. As the name indicates the "Discussion" section is the place for that.
;Someone has an idea for a better title than "Gathered notes, discussion summary" ?...

----

=Discussion=
This is where the real talking goes, please don't put any talking in the "Gathered notes, discussion summary". If you want to discuss something that has been put in the "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section, please do so here. You can copy the stuff to discuss about from the "Gathered notes, discussion summary" section so that we can have a easier base for discussion.

==Contents==

'''Links'''
I changed some wording in the "Newbies, help improve this FAQ!" section to emphasize the importance of links. This page could not possibly hold the answer to every newbie question. Instead of trying to directly answer questions, it should link to other (more knowledgeable) resources whenever possible. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 04:14, January 24, 2007 (EST)

http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where_can_I_get_information_to_learn_more_about_using_my_specific_distribution.3F
:I think we shouldn't put too much information there. Details about each distribution can be found in its own dedicated page. The tips & tricks about suse are not for newbies for instance. Just my two cents. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 15:13, January 13, 2007 (EST)
::I have not looked over the "Tips+Tricks" stuff for Suse, but it should be Newbie related. Same goes all links on the page; I have not had the chance (or even much desire) to look at them all. If it is not Newbie related, I think it should be removed.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:19, January 15, 2007 (EST)
:Replaced non relevant tips and tricks links with more newbie oriented ones [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:23, January 23, 2007 (EST)
::That's good. I re-added the Suse wiki site.

I added a link to the "See also" section to [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]. Seems like a kind of mixed up wiki page that may have "tried" to be what this wiki page is doing correctly... Perhaps guidance is the key? So far, with your help Questy, this page is shaping up to be exactly what I hoped for. :) (except you've totally ruined the discussion page. lol ;) We'll get discussion cleaned up later.) I assume you're the one that wrote the comment about IRC/forums? --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:48, January 16, 2007 (EST)

:I don't think we should delete the talking sections, this is not the same as editing the article, you need to see everything that has been said or you get a distorted view of the discussion process. You could argue that there is a page history but i think people wouldn't think there could be pieces of the discussion that could have been deleted. My view on this matter is you delete nothing of the discussion or you delete all of it. So i guess that would be let's keep everything.
:I have seen the page [[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]], but i didn't take the time to read it though so i can't tell really.
:Nope i never talked about IRC stuff on this wiki... [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 19:34, January 17, 2007 (EST)

==Todo list==

We need a Wiki page for installing audio/video codecs. I was not even able to find a weblink I considered "good". This is a HIGHLY HIGHLY common problem for newbies. The wiki page should not be distro specific. [[Installing_Codecs]] It should lay out a clear number of steps from start to finish on installing codecs. --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:39, January 12, 2007 (EST)


:Let's call it Installing video and audio codecs ? ( can't hurt to be precise ). [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 12:01, January 12, 2007 (EST)

::I have to disagree with you on this. I don't think the newbie should even have to 'think' audio/video. (It would be best if they didn't have to think codec either.) They just know they have a "codec" problem, and it needs to be solved. Whatever the guide, they should be able to install ALL codecs, and not have to worry about codecs again for years. (or until their next install)--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 06:05, January 13, 2007 (EST)

:::Umm... The bad news is that sometimes i can write ambiguous messages. The good news is you don't have to disagree since i was just talking about the name to give to the page. The newbie won't even have to know it to get directed to it anyway so all is well. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:23, January 13, 2007 (EST)

I have begun the page [[Installing_Codecs]]. (Oops, forgot --Sepero)

==Formatting==

Questy, is there any specific reason you are using "*:" on the page instead of just ":"? I'm not a pro at wiki editing, so let me know if there is a valid reason. Some are one way, while some are the other. For now, I'm going to reset them to ":" to keep a common format style.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 04:49, January 12, 2007 (EST)


:{|
|
http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Wiki_markup#Indented_numbered_lists

See example number 5 and 6 of the Organizing_your_writing section of this link :
http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing_tips_and_tricks#Organizing_your_writing

I am not a pro either ( i didn't even know how to write a wiki 2 or 3 weeks from now ). The reason i put a '*:' is that the line that it indents is related to the preceding line ( it is a comment on the previous link ), so it is indented relative to it. If you don't indent it relative to it, it sometimes can be confusing because you don't know precisely if it it has something to do with it.
For instance when you put "Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere." it's not clear if it's a comment relating to the previous line or to the next one.

[http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/index.php?title=Linux_Newbie_FAQ&oldid=30465#Where_can_I_get_books_or_guides_to_learn_more_about_using_Linux_in_general_.3F In this version of the article], when you put "More advanced howto's and guides." as a simple indent, one can wonder if you are about to put more links about more advanced howtos after that because it is not clear it is related to the previous link ( of course i knew it but at first glance it is confusing ). See how "More advanced howto's and guides." is far away from the line it is relating to, see how the other lines from the unordered list are all packed together, this is not natural, this is not a logical organisation of content. "*:" is very well suited in this case in my opinion, because it is there to make an indentation relative to list item ( here "http://www.tldp.org/" ), it leaves no doubt that this indented line has something to say about the previous link.
[[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 11:42, January 12, 2007 (EST)
|}
::If it helps in reading the wiki source, then I am generally for it. I'm more used to reading source code from programming languages, so perhaps I'm better able to decypher things that look like crap. I do always have one goal in mind, and that is to Keep It Simple As Possible. That is why I prefered the ":" way. Your request seems quite reasonable though and makes sense. I have reset the formatting.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:57, January 13, 2007 (EST)

:::Yeah, nice :) [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 14:26, January 13, 2007 (EST)

==Talk page organisation==
Do you know any other name more suited for the "The Talking" section ? Discussion, Forum, etc... ? [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 19:32, January 13, 2007 (EST)
:"The Talking" seems super lame. We'll change it later. ;)--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:29, January 15, 2007 (EST)

::See here: http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/LQWiki:Talk_Pages --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:24, January 17, 2007 (EST)
:I replaced with "Gathered notes, discussion summary" and "Discussion" summary for now. Should find better though. Anyone has a thought on this ?... [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 20:53, January 17, 2007 (EST)
::Looks fine. I'd like to see a lot of the old discussion on this page deleted though. Much of it no longer serves a purpose.

==Private messages==
Thank you, ThorstenStaerk and Questynux for helping out with this page.
--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 22:30, January 11, 2007 (EST)


:You're welcome, this serves a common goal. [[User:Questynux|Questynux]] 22:55, January 11, 2007 (EST)
::Very cool. Let us hope more join in.--[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 05:57, January 13, 2007 (EST)

Glad to see you back for a bit, ThorstenStaerk. I thought maybe you had left us. Thanks for the spelling correction. ;) --[[User:Sepero|Sepero]] 20:07, January 16, 2007 (EST)

I feel honored :) [[User:ThorstenStaerk|Thorsten]]

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-24T08:52:41Z

Sepero: /* Suse */ Re-added suse wiki

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]
*http://susewiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
*:Suse wiki pages

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-24T08:46:21Z

Sepero: /* Newbies, help improve this FAQ! */ Much re-wording.

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, Please help improve this FAQ!=
Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
*Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
*More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
*Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
*Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
How can you help ?
*'''Links''' to other pages are the most helpful resource! The reason is because 99% of the time, someone has already written a web page to solve a specific newbie problem. The challenge for other newbies now becomes FINDING that web page. If you've found a link to a web page that helped you solve a problem, feel free to insert it in the proper place in the page. Or simply put the link at the bottom of the [http://wiki.linuxquestions.org/wiki/Talk:Linux_Newbie_FAQ discussion] page, with a comment about it, and your username. We can take care of the rest.
*Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
*Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
*Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
**Repair/Remove broken links
**Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
**Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
**Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-24T08:17:45Z

Sepero: /* Newbies, help improve this FAQ! */ grammar

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, help improve this FAQ!=
;'''This FAQ is a [[wiki]] so...'''
*Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
**Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
**More advanced users will often just not see those very problems. They are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forget what is easy and what is not.
**Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
**Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
*How can you help ?
**Add the solutions to problems you had you think a lot of newbies will have too. Check first that the problem is not already being discussed in the discussion page.
**Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
**Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
**Add well chosen links for newbies.
**Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
***Repair/Remove broken links
***Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
***Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
***Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006

Linux Newbie FAQ

2007-01-24T08:13:54Z

Sepero: /* Newbies, help improve this FAQ! */ spelling

=I wish to dual boot. Should I install Microsoft Windows or Linux first?=
In most cases, Microsoft Windows.

=Which distro should I use?=
There are many places you can go to for finding help on choosing a distribution, here are a few:
*http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/index.php?firsttime=true
*[[Choosing_a_Linux_distribution]]

=Why are there so many Linux distributions?=
A common thought for new comers seems to be, "If all the Linux distributions worked together, then we could have one (or a few) Really Great distribution(s)". While this thought makes good sense, in reality it limits innovation and creativity of developers. Linux is based on the [[GNU GPL]] copyright license. The principal idea of this license is that you are guaranteed the freedom of sharing this operating system with your friends and family, and even changing the system if you like. Unlike most other [[Open_Source]] operating systems (ie. *[[BSD]]), these freedoms are also guaranteed for future versions of the software. This has allowed Linux to improve (and continue to improve) at an incredible rate. The growth of Linux is dependant on its ability to appeal to as many audiences as possible.

=Where can I find Linux software to replace my Microsoft software?=
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=What Antivirus/Firewall software should I use for my system?=
Please see the list of Linux software equivalents for Microsoft software. 
*[[Linux_software_equivalent_to_Windows_software]]

=How do I get/install Multimedia Codecs?=
Most Linux distributions cannot come with codecs preinstalled because of copyright and/or patent issues. It is always best to install software according to your specific packaging system, so please check the guides for your distribution first.
*[[Linux_Newbie_FAQ#Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution? | Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?]]

*[[Installing_Codecs]]
*:A generic guide for installing codecs on almost any Linux distribution.

*Other links:
*:http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Install-Multimedia-Codecs-in-Linux-39555.shtml

*:[http://www.linuxquestions.org/linux/answers/Applications_GUI_Multimedia/Howto_install_win32_codecs_on_x86_64_architecture Howto install win32 codecs on x86_64 architecture]

=How do I defragment my filesystem on Linux?=
In general, defragmentation is not a problem at all on Linux because of superior file organization. If you insist on defragmenting your filesystem, there are a few programs that will do that job. Before searching the internet, check if any of these are available in your package manager(Synaptic/Yum/Yast).
*defrag
*:Older program, but appears unmaintained.
*shake
*:Newer, maintainted program.

=Where can I get books or guides to learn more about using Linux in general ?=
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Linux_For_Newbies Linux for newbies] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*[http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/ www.linuxnewbieguide.org]
*[http://www.tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/index.html Introduction to Linux, a hands on guide] (''www.tldp.org'')
*[http://loll.sourceforge.net/linux/links/Linux_General/Beginners_/index.html Loads of unsorted links for beginners] (loll.sourceforge.net)
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_books#Beginners List of Linux books, beginners section] (en.wikipedia.org)
*[[Documentation|Where to find documentation]]

=Where can I get more information regarding a specific distribution?=


==Knoppix==
*[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Knowing_Knoppix Knowing Knoppix] (''en.wikibooks.org'')
*:Guide to the Knoppix Linux distro for the complete beginner. Nice way to test Linux without any installation. Insert the CD and go!

==Mepis==
*http://www.mepis.org/docs/en/index.php/Main_Page
*http://www.mepis.org/node/6679

==Suse==
*[http://suseroot.com/ Resources for New SUSE Linux Users] (suseroot.com)
*:Newbie friendly, try this one first.

*opensuse 10.2 guides (www.novell.com, en.opensuse.org)
**[http://www.novell.com/documentation/opensuse102/ opensuse official documentation]
**:Various well illustrated guides, GNOME, KDE, general user manual etc...
**[http://www.novell.com/products/opensuse/installation.html Installation, quick view.]

==Ubuntu==
*http://www.ubuntuguide.org/
*:Possibly the Best Ubuntu guide anywhere (wiki).
*http://www.pcmech.com/show/os/917/
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows Switching To Ubuntu From Windows] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/6.10/book/book/ubuntubook-ch3-html/UsingUbuntuontheDesktop.html Using Ubuntu on the Desktop] (help.ubuntu.com)
*:Very well illustrated guide.
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UserDocumentation Community documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[https://help.ubuntu.com/ Official documentation] (help.ubuntu.com)
*[http://www.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=232059 Helpfull sticky thread] (www.ubuntuforums.org)



=Newbies, help improve this FAQ!=
;'''This FAQ is a [[wiki]] so...'''
*Newbies are strongly encouraged to take part in the writing of this page, because...
**Newbies know where the problems lie, they are the most suited persons to help other Newbies out, to know what should be explained and in how much detail.
**More advanced users will often just not see those very problems, they are so used to using Linux on a daily basis that they forgot what is easy or not.
**Most persons reading this FAQ will be newbies. More advanced people will not have a lot of interest in reading this FAQ. If you count on the few ones which happen to come here to improve this FAQ then it will never improve or stay up to date the way it should.
**Editing wiki pages is easy, you can [[LQWiki:LQ_Central#Getting_started|learn some basics here]]. Any change can be reverted, you won't break everything! If you did something wrong others will help improve it, but at least you made a helpful remark, improvement, etc... Moreover some helpful things can be done without any wiki knowledge.
*How can you help ?
**Add the solutions to problems you had you think a lot of newbies will have too. Check first that the problem is not already being discussed in the discussion page.
**Make remarks in the discussion page on how to improve this FAQ. Be constructive.
**Implement those suggested improvements, make things happen.
**Add well chosen links for newbies.
**Little things that make a world of difference, don't underestimate them :
***Repair/Remove broken links
***Add comments under given links or in the page discussion on how useful they are. If it's not for newbies just delete them.
***Rephrase explanations to be more understandable, easy to read.
***Correct spelling mistakes.

=See also=
*[[LinuxIntro]]
*[[Newbie Shakedown Guide - What's Linux?]]
*[[Common_Questions_and_Misconceptions]]
*[[Bookmarks selection Liveliest and most useful places|Liveliest and most useful GNU/Linux places]]
*:You are new to the GNU/Linux world and want to have a feel for what it's all about ? Search no more !

=External links=
*[http://linux-newbie.sunsite.dk/html/lnag.html Linux Newbie Administrator Guide, 2004-07-22]
*:Some things are related to RedHat and Mandrake (2004...) but should be worth reading for any distribution.
*[http://linux.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=06/12/26/0851218 Ideal Linux System for Newbies?]
*: A slashdot Discussion dated Tue Dec 26 2006