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Up Next: Ubuntu 9.04
If you’re set to try the new Ubuntu 9.04 release when it comes out on April 23rd you may enjoy a few of these resources.
As if you haven’t already been flooded with enough news about the new Ubuntu features here’s a list of what you’ll be missing if you don’t check out the latest release of Ubuntu. GNOME 2.26, new desktop notifications, better multi-display support, cloud support, upgraded X.Org server 1.6, Linux kernel 2.6.28 and support for the ext4 file system. Although version 9.04 does include some new features, Ubuntu has changed little on the desktop. Users looking to score Ubuntu for free may look at downloading or picking it up on CD for $1.95 before waiting 10 weeks for the subtle changes displayed in the RC release. Only time and this poll will tell.
Ubuntu 9.04: Installing Landscape on the Server
Landscape Web-Based System Management
This option provides system management and monitoring. Landscape provides central management for multiple systems using a web-based interface. This interface provides easy access for updates to all of the servers/desktops you are managing as well as monitoring for users, processes, and inventory control.
Features:
Manage many machines at once
Group machines to match your needs
Manage packages across the network
Integrate custom repositories
Manage users easily
Handle security updates efficiently
Support disconnected systems
As I read these features it brought back my early years using Novell’s ZENWorks Desktop Management to roll out updates to Windows machines, push images to desktops, monitor and repair desktops. It was great stuff, though often bloated and cumbersome, but it got the job done. For busy administrators this may be an option that is worthy of consideration. Larger companies with higher skill levels and higher ratios of servers per admin will certainly take a look at this but smaller companies will shy away from the cost.
Certainly having these resources in hand can save time and will provide information that administrators should know about the systems they manage. The cost $150 per machine, per year…ouch.
Installing Landscape
During installation you have the option to set up the server to act as a landscape-client. Give it a unique “Computer Title”.
Next provide an account name for the client.
Also add a registration password.
Now you can access this server from your web based station …once you have made payment. There is a 60 day trial to see how you like it.
Ubuntu 9.04 Wallpaper: No Jackalope
The last few Ubuntu Linux released featured background and artwork that depicted the versions codename. For example when Ubuntu 8.04 Hardy Heron was released we enjoyed the abstract bird-like background and then Ubuntu 8.10 Intrepid Ibex brought us the Ibex background which wasn’t too bad. As Ubuntu 9.04 Jaunty Jackalope Alpha version rolled out users enjoyed new login screen, themes and the new boot splash theme. I was sure we’d be commenting about a new Jackalope background any day now. Now as I preview the release of Ubuntu 9.04 Beta codenamed Jaunty Jackalope, I see no Jackalope background. Instead it looks like Ubuntu has added a stylish background that favors the same theme colors as previous versions but gives off a professional vibe. I’m both excited for the new look but disappointed in the lack of a Jackalope background.
In case you prefer the lighter more “Ubuntu-like” look, Ubuntu 9.04 has also included this lighter version in the Ubuntu 9.04 beta release. The second abckground looks a little more like the traditional Ubuntu background.
Here are a few places that you can find interesting Ubuntu artwork. If you know of a few places feel free to comment and i’ll add them to this article.
Ubuntu Artwork:
Here’s a look at the two new backgrounds included in Ubuntu 9.04 Jaunty Jackalope.
