From
Unofficial Ubuntu 5.10 (Breezy Badger) Starter Guide
This guide http://ubuntuguide.org/ was started by Chua Wen Kiat (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia).
It is now being maintained by the Linux Center of University of Latvia, and everyone else who is willing to contribute.
Contributors: orvils, Cargo, Quash, Byte, krampo, Simos ...
Ubuntu 6.06 (Dapper Drake) guide: in progress...
Translations: Latviešu • Русский • Polski • Traditional Chinese • Italiano • Persian • Português do Brasil • Português
General Notes
- This is an Unofficial Ubuntu 5.10 (Breezy Badger) Starter Guide. It is not associated with Ubuntu and Canonical Ltd.
- Guide is tested on a full installation of the Ubuntu 5.10 x86 Install CD (Breezy Badger)
- If you see a bluish box, this means you have to execute the
commands in Terminal mode (Applications -> System Tools ->
Terminal) or use the content of that box as mentioned in some other
instructions.
- To reduce typo mistakes, copy and paste the commands into
Terminal mode (right click on the commands -> "Copy" or "Paste". You
can also use Ctrl+C to copy and Shift+Insert to paste it)
- "sudo" means superuser do. "sudo" will prompt for "Password:". Please specify user password
- If you want more information about any command, simply look at
the manual page for it using the "man" command. For example, "man sudo"
will display the manual page for the "sudo" command.
- If you are tired of typing "apt-get" all the time, Read #How to apt-get the easy way (Synaptic)
- "apt-get" and "wget" requires Internet connection to install/update/download programs
- To download file, right click on the link -> Select "Save Link As..." -> Make sure file name and extension are correct
- If you wish to help translating Ubuntu to your native language or to help Ubuntu otherwise visit https://launchpad.net/
- May the "humanity to others" spirit be with you always...
- If you are using Kubuntu you need to install Gedit
sudo apt-get install gedit
- Or replace 'gedit' with 'kwrite', for example, instead of writing
sudo gedit /etc/apt/sources.list
- Write
sudo kwrite /etc/apt/sources.list
- If you are using 64-bit version replace "i386" with "amd64"
Getting Started
What is Ubuntu
Where to view Ubuntu screenshots
Where to find a list of all the programs/libraries that comes with Ubuntu
Where to download Ubuntu
Where to order Ubuntu CDs for absolutely FREE
Where to find help for Ubuntu
Where to look for new programs
Where to look for style elements for your desktop
Repositories
How to add extra repositories
sudo cp /etc/apt/sources.list /etc/apt/sources.list_backup
sudo gedit /etc/apt/sources.list
 | Replace everything with the following lines
|
## Add comments (##) in front of any line to remove it from being checked.
## Use the following sources.list at your own risk.
## You may replace "us" with your country code to get the closest mirror.
deb http://us.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy main restricted
deb-src http://us.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy main restricted
## MAJOR BUG FIX UPDATES produced after the final release
deb http://us.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-updates main restricted
deb-src http://us.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-updates main restricted
## UBUNTU SECURITY UPDATES
deb http://security.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-security main restricted
deb-src http://security.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-security main restricted
deb http://security.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-security universe
deb-src http://security.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-security universe
## UNIVERSE AND MULTIVERSE REPOSITORY (Unsupported by Ubuntu. Use at own risk.)
deb http://archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy universe multiverse
deb-src http://archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy universe multiverse
## BACKPORTS REPOSITORY (Unsupported. May contain illegal packages. Use at own risk.)
deb http://archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-backports main restricted universe multiverse
deb-src http://archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-backports main restricted universe multiverse
## PLF REPOSITORY (Unsupported. May contain illegal packages. Use at own risk.)
deb http://packages.freecontrib.org/ubuntu/plf breezy free non-free
deb-src http://packages.freecontrib.org/ubuntu/plf breezy free non-free
| Save the edited file
|
sudo apt-get update
- Use your own sources.list file only if you understand what you're doing
Ubuntu Updates
How to manually update Ubuntu
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get upgrade
Installing additional software (Automatix)
| This is a graphical interface for installation of a lot of
apps on Ubuntu/Kubuntu/Xubuntu BREEZY and DAPPER (DOES NOT WORK ON
Warty or Hoary).
|
| Automatix will help you to install Multimedia codecs; all
Firefox plugins (java, flash, etc); RAR, ACE and UNRAR archive support;
skype; Acrobat reader 7; Gnomebaker; gftp; DC++ and amule; Frostwire;
Audacity; Kino; EasyTag; Mplayer; totem-xine; VLC; Beep Media Player;
Opera; Bittornado; Azureus; Enables Numlock on; Programming Tools
(Anjuta (C/C++ IDE), Bluefish (HTML editor), (Web Dev)); GnomePPP; MS
true type fonts; Streamtuner; NON-FREE audio and dvd codecs; ndisgtk
(WiFi configurator Graphical user interface); SUN'S JAVA JRE v1.5;
SUN'S JAVA JDK v1.5; wine; gdesklets; Detect Nvidia cards and install
drivers and do some other usefull thinks.
|
| If you are in The United States of America DO NOT install NON-FREE audio and dvd codecs. IT IS ILLEGAL TO DO SO.
|
How to get Automatix
| To install Automatix in Ubuntu
|
sudo apt-get install xterm
wget http://beerorkid.com/automatix/automatix_5.8-3_i386.deb
sudo dpkg -i automatix_5.8-3_i386.deb
- Applications -> System Tools -> Automatix
| To install Automatix in Kubuntu/Xubuntu
|
sudo apt-get install xterm libglade2-0 libgnomecanvas2-0
wget http://kambing.vlsm.org/ubuntu/pool/main/z/zenity/zenity_2.12.1-0ubuntu1_i386.deb
sudo dpkg -i zenity_2.12.1-0ubuntu1_i386.deb
wget http://beerorkid.com/automatix/automatix_5.8-3_i386.deb
sudo dpkg -i automatix_5.8-3_i386.deb
- Main Menu -> System -> Automatix
Add-On Applications
How to install Menu Editor for GNOME
sudo apt-get install smeg
How to install Clipboard Daemon for GNOME
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/gnome-clipboard-daemon-1.0.bin.tar.bz2
sudo tar jxvf gnome-clipboard-daemon-1.0.bin.tar.bz2 -C /usr/bin/
sudo chown root:root /usr/bin/gnome-clipboard-daemon
sudo chmod 755 /usr/bin/gnome-clipboard-daemon
sudo gnome-clipboard-daemon &
export EDITOR=gedit && crontab -e
| Add the following line at the end of file
|
@reboot gnome-clipboard-daemon
| Save the edited file
|
How to install J2SE Runtime Environment (JRE) with Plug-in for Mozilla Firefox
sudo apt-get install sun-j2re1.5
echo 3 | sudo update-alternatives --config java
| Restart Mozilla Firefox
|
How to install Flash Player (Macromedia Flash) Plug-in for Mozilla Firefox
sudo apt-get install flashplayer-mozilla
| Restart Mozilla Firefox
|
How to install PDF Reader (Adobe Reader) with Plug-in for Mozilla Firefox
sudo apt-get install acroread
sudo apt-get install mozilla-acroread
sudo apt-get install acroread-plugins
How to install Download Manager (Downloader for X)
sudo apt-get install d4x
How to install FTP Client (gFTP)
sudo apt-get install gftp
How to install File share utility (DC++)
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/linuxdcpp.tar.gz
sudo tar zxvf linuxdcpp.tar.gz -C /opt
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/dcpp.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Encoding=UTF-8
Name=DC++
Exec=/opt/linuxdcpp/ldcpp
Terminal=false
Type=Application
StartupNotify=true
Icon=/opt/linuxdcpp/pixmaps/linuxdcpp.svg
Categories=Application;Network;
| Save the edited file
|
| Applications -> Internet -> DC++
|
How to install P2P BitTorrent Client (Azureus)
wget -c http://kent.dl.sourceforge.net/sourceforge/azureus/Azureus_2.4.0.2_linux.tar.bz2
sudo tar jxvf Azureus_2.4.0.2_linux.tar.bz2 -C /opt
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/azureus.desktop
| Add the following to the new file:
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=Azureus
Comment=A Bittorrent client
Exec=/opt/azureus/azureus
Icon=/opt/azureus/Azureus.png
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Network;
| Save the edited file
|
| Applications -> Internet -> Azureus
|
How to install P2P eMule Client (aMule)
sudo apt-get install amule
How to install P2P Gnutella Client (LimeWire)
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/LimeWireOther.zip
sudo unzip -u LimeWireOther.zip -d /opt/
sudo chown -R root:root /opt/LimeWire/
sudo gedit /usr/bin/runLime.sh
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
cd /opt/LimeWire/
./runLime.sh
| Save the edited file
|
sudo chmod +x /usr/bin/runLime.sh
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/LimeWire.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=LimeWire
Comment=LimeWire
Exec=runLime.sh
Icon=/opt/LimeWire/LimeWire.ico
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Network;
How to install Messenger (Skype)
wget -c http://download.skype.com/linux/skype_staticQT-1.2.0.18.tar.bz2
sudo tar jxvf skype_staticQT-1.2.0.18.tar.bz2 -C /opt/
sudo ln -s /opt/skype-1.2.0.18/skype /usr/bin/skype
sudo cp /opt/skype-1.2.0.18/skype.desktop /usr/share/applications/skype.desktop
sudo cp /opt/skype-1.2.0.18/icons/skype_32_32.png /usr/share/icons/hicolor/32x32/apps/skype.png
rm skype_staticQT-1.2.0.18.tar.bz2
How to install WinPopup (LinPopUp)
sudo apt-get install linpopup
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/linpopup.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=LinPopUp
Comment=LinPopUp
Exec=linpopup
Icon=/usr/share/pixmaps/linpopup.xpm
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Utility;
How to install Multimedia Codecs
sudo apt-get install gstreamer0.8-plugins
sudo apt-get install gstreamer0.8-lame
sudo apt-get install gstreamer0.8-ffmpeg
sudo apt-get install lame
sudo apt-get install sox
sudo apt-get install ffmpeg
sudo apt-get install mjpegtools
sudo apt-get install vorbis-tools
sudo apt-get install w32codecs
gst-register-0.8
How to install DVD playback capability
sudo apt-get install libdvdcss2
How to install Multimedia Player (xine-ui)
sudo apt-get install xine-ui
| Associate xine-ui to play multimedia files
|
gconftool-2 --type string --set /desktop/gnome/volume_manager/autoplay_dvd_command "xine dvd://"
sudo rm -f /usr/share/applnk/Multimedia/xine.desktop
sudo ln -fs /usr/share/xine/desktop/xine.desktop /usr/share/applications/
sudo cp /usr/share/applications/defaults.list /usr/share/applications/defaults.list_backup
sudo sed -e 's/totem.desktop/xine.desktop/g' /usr/share/applications/defaults.list_backup > /tmp/defaults.list
sudo mv /tmp/defaults.list /usr/share/applications/defaults.list
How to install Multimedia Player (MPlayer) with Plug-in for Mozilla Firefox
sudo apt-get install mplayer-386
sudo apt-get install mplayer-fonts
sudo apt-get install mozilla-mplayer
sudo cp /etc/mplayer/mplayer.conf /etc/mplayer/mplayer.conf_backup
sudo gedit /etc/mplayer/mplayer.conf
| Find this line
|
...
vo=x11, # To specify default video driver (see -vo help for
...
| Replace with the following line
|
vo=xv, # To specify default video driver (see -vo help for
How to install VLC Multimedia player
sudo apt-get install vlc
sudo apt-get install vlc-plugin-*
How to install Multimedia Player (XMMS)
sudo apt-get install xmms
sudo apt-get install xmms-skins
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/xmms-wma_1.0.4-2_i386.deb
sudo dpkg -i xmms-wma_1.0.4-2_i386.deb
| Associate XMMS to play MP3/M3U/WAV files
|
sudo cp /usr/share/applications/defaults.list /usr/share/applications/defaults.list_backup
sudo cp /usr/share/applications/defaults.list /tmp/defaults.list_tmp
sudo sed -e 's/audio\/mpeg=.*/audio\/mpeg=XMMS.desktop/g' /tmp/defaults.list_tmp > /tmp/defaults.mp3
sudo sed -e 's/audio\/x-mpegurl=.*/audio\/x-mpegurl=XMMS.desktop/g' /tmp/defaults.mp3 > /tmp/defaults.m3u
sudo sed -e 's/audio\/x-wav=.*/audio\/x-wav=XMMS.desktop/g' /tmp/defaults.m3u > /tmp/defaults.list
sudo mv /tmp/defaults.list /usr/share/applications/defaults.list
sudo rm -f /tmp/defaults.*
How to install Multimedia Player (amaroK)
sudo apt-get install amarok
| Applications -> Sound & Video -> amaroK
|
How to install Multimedia Player (RealPlayer 10)
sudo apt-get install realplay
- Note: 'realplay' installs RealPlayer 10 from PLF repo. 'realplayer' installs RealPlayer 8 from multiverse.
How to install Stream Directory Browser (streamtuner)
sudo apt-get install streamtuner
sudo apt-get install streamripper
How to install Music Organizer (Cowbell)
sudo apt-get install cowbell
| Applications -> Sound & Video -> Cowbell Music Organizer
|
How to install ID3 Tag Editor (EasyTAG)
sudo apt-get install easytag
How to install Video Editor (Kino)
sudo apt-get install kino
sudo apt-get install kinoplus
sudo apt-get install kino-timfx
sudo apt-get install kino-dvtitler
How to install Audio Editor (Audacity)
sudo apt-get install audacity
How to install DVD Ripper (dvd::rip)
sudo apt-get install dvdrip
sudo apt-get install vcdimager
sudo apt-get install cdrdao
sudo apt-get install subtitleripper
sudo ln -fs /usr/bin/rar /usr/bin/rar-2.80
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/dvdrip.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=dvd::rip
Comment=dvd::rip
Exec=dvdrip
Icon=/usr/share/perl5/Video/DVDRip/icon.xpm
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;AudioVideo;
How to install CD Ripper (Goobox)
sudo apt-get install goobox
sudo rm -f /usr/share/applications/goobox.desktop
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/goobox.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=CD Player & Ripper
Comment=Play and extract CDs
Exec=goobox
Icon=goobox.png
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;AudioVideo;
How to install Image Viewer (digiKam)
sudo apt-get install digikam
| Applications -> Graphics -> digikam
|
How to install Email Client (Mozilla Thunderbird)
sudo apt-get install mozilla-thunderbird
How to install Newsreader (Pan)
sudo apt-get install pan
How to install RSS/RDF/Atom Newsreader (RSSOwl)
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/rssowl_linux_1_1_3_bin.tar.gz
sudo tar zxvf rssowl_linux_1_1_3_bin.tar.gz -C /opt/
sudo chown -R root:root /opt/rssowl_linux_1_1_3_bin/
sudo gedit /usr/bin/runRSSOwl.sh
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
export MOZILLA_FIVE_HOME=/usr/lib/mozilla-firefox
export LD_LIBRARY_PATH=$LD_LIBRARY_PATH:${MOZILLA_FIVE_HOME}:${LD_LIBRARY_PATH}
cd /opt/rssowl_linux_1_1_3_bin/
./run.sh
| Save the edited file
|
sudo chmod +x /usr/bin/runRSSOwl.sh
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/RSSOwl.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=RSSOwl
Comment=RSSOwl
Exec=runRSSOwl.sh
Icon=/opt/rssowl_linux_1_1_3_bin/rssowl.xpm
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Network;
| Save the edited file
|
| Applications -> Internet -> RSSOwl
|
How to install Web Authoring System (Nvu)
sudo apt-get install nvu
sudo rm -f /usr/share/applications/nvu.desktop
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/nvu.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=Nvu
Comment=Web Development Editor
Exec=nvu
Icon=nvu.xpm
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Network;
How to install Web Development Environment (quanta plus)
sudo apt-get install quanta
| Applications -> Programming -> Quanta Plus
|
How to install Project Management Application (Planner)
sudo apt-get install planner
How to install Accounting Application (GnuCash)
sudo apt-get install gnucash
sudo rm -fr /usr/share/gnome/apps/Applications/
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/GnuCash.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=GnuCash
Comment=GnuCash Personal Finance
Exec=gnucash
Icon=/usr/share/pixmaps/gnucash/gnucash-icon.png
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Office;
How to install Desktop Publishing Application (Scribus)
sudo apt-get install scribus
How to install Diagram Editor (Dia)
sudo apt-get install dia-gnome
How to install Compiled HTML Help (CHM) Viewer (xCHM)
sudo apt-get install xchm
How to install CD/DVD Burning Application (GnomeBaker)
sudo apt-get install gnomebaker
How to install CD/DVD Burning Application (K3b)
sudo apt-get install k3b k3b-mp3
| Applications -> Sound & Video -> K3b
|
How to install Dialup PPP Client (GNOME PPP)
sudo apt-get install gnome-ppp
How to install Broadband ADSL/PPPoE Client (RP-PPPoE)
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/rp-pppoe-3.6.tar.gz
sudo tar zxvf rp-pppoe-3.6.tar.gz -C /opt/
sudo chown -R root:root /opt/rp-pppoe-3.6/
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/RP-PPPoE.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=RP-PPPoE
Comment=RP-PPPoE
Exec=gksudo /opt/rp-pppoe-3.6/go-gui
Icon=
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Network;
How to install Boot-Up Manager (BUM)
sudo apt-get install bum
How to install Partition Editor (GParted)
sudo apt-get install gparted
How to install Firewall (Firestarter)
sudo apt-get install firestarter
How to install network traffic analyzer (Ethereal)
sudo apt-get install ethereal
| Applications -> Internet -> Ethereal
|
How to install Vulnerability Scanner (Nessus)
sudo apt-get install nessus
sudo apt-get install nessusd
sudo nessus-adduser
sudo ln -fs /etc/init.d/nessusd /etc/rc2.d/S20nessusd
sudo /etc/init.d/nessusd start
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/Nessus.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=Nessus
Comment=Nessus
Exec=nessus
Icon=/usr/share/pixmaps/nessus.xpm
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;System;
How to install RAR Archiver (rar)
sudo apt-get install rar
sudo ln -fs /usr/bin/rar /usr/bin/unrar
| Applications -> Accessories -> Archive Manager
|
How to install Extra Fonts
sudo apt-get install xfonts-intl-arabic
sudo apt-get install xfonts-intl-asian
sudo apt-get install xfonts-intl-chinese
sudo apt-get install xfonts-intl-chinese-big
sudo apt-get install xfonts-intl-european
sudo apt-get install xfonts-intl-japanese
sudo apt-get install xfonts-intl-japanese-big
sudo apt-get install xfonts-intl-phonetic
sudo apt-get install gsfonts-x11
sudo apt-get install msttcorefonts
sudo fc-cache -f -v
How to install Chinese Input Method (SCIM)
sudo apt-get install scim
sudo apt-get install scim-chinese
sudo apt-get install scim-config-socket
sudo apt-get install scim-gtk2-immodule
sudo apt-get install scim-tables-zh
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/fireflysung-1.3.0.tar.gz
sudo tar zxvf fireflysung-1.3.0.tar.gz -C /usr/share/fonts/truetype/
sudo chown -R root:root /usr/share/fonts/truetype/fireflysung-1.3.0/
sudo fc-cache -f -v
| System -> Preferences -> SCIM Input Method Setup
|
| To activate SCIM
|
Press 'Ctrl + Space'
How to install Desktop Applets (gDesklets)
sudo apt-get install gdesklets
sudo apt-get install gdesklets-data
How to install Basic Compilers (build-essential)
sudo apt-get install build-essential
How to install Integrated Development Environment (Anjuta)
sudo apt-get install anjuta
| Applications -> Programming -> Anjuta IDE
|
How to install 3D modeling tool (Blender 3d)
sudo apt-get install blender
| Applications -> Graphics -> Blender 3D modeller
|
How to install game Tuxracer
sudo apt-get install planetpenguin-racer planetpenguin-racer-data planetpenguin-racer-extras
| Applications -> Games -> planetpenguin-racer
|
How to install game Frozen-Bubble
sudo apt-get install frozen-bubble
| Applications -> Games -> Frozen-Bubble
|
How to install game Scorched3D
sudo apt-get install scorched3d
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/scorched3d.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=Scorched 3D
Comment=A 3D Remake Of Scorched Earth
Exec=scorched3d
Icon=
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Game;ArcadeGame;
How to install virtual planetarium (Stellarium)
sudo apt-get install stellarium
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/stellarium.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=Stellarium
Comment=Virtual planetarium
Exec=stellarium
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;Education;
| Applications -> Education -> Stellarium
|
How to install KDE Edutainment applications
sudo apt-get install kdeedu
| Applications -> Education -> ...
|
Other Desktop Environments
How to install KDE
sudo apt-get install kubuntu-desktop
- Note: This installation will require ~400MB of disk space
| System -> Log Out -> Log Out
|
| To log in to KDE click on Sessions and choose KDE
|
How to install XFCE
sudo apt-get install xubuntu-desktop
| System -> Log Out -> Log Out
|
| To log in to XFCE click on Sessions and choose XFCE
|
Commercial Applications
How to install Windows 9X/ME/2000/XP (Win4Lin)
How to install Windows Applications (CrossOver Office)
How to install Windows Games (Cedega)
User Administration
How to set/change/enable root user password
sudo passwd root
How to disable root user account
sudo passwd -l root
How to allow root user to login into GNOME
Security Tab -> Options -> Allow root to login with GDM (Checked)
How to switch to root user in Console mode
sudo -s -H
Password: <specify user password>
How to add/edit/delete system users
| Read #General Notes
|
| System -> Administration -> Users and Groups
|
| Users and Groups
|
Users Tab -> Add User.../Properties/Delete
- or
sudo useradd jim
sudo userdel jim
| For more info read
|
man usermod
How to add/edit/delete system groups
| Read #General Notes
|
| System -> Administration -> Users and Groups
|
| Users and Groups
|
Groups Tab -> Add Group.../Properties/Delete
How to automatic login into GNOME (not secure)
| Read #General Notes
|
| System -> Administration -> Login Screen Setup
|
| Login Screen Setup
|
General Tab -> Automatic Login ->
Login a user automatically on first bootup (Checked)
Automatic login username: Select "system_username"
How to allow more sudoers
export EDITOR=gedit && sudo visudo
| Append the following line at the end of file
|
system_username ALL=(ALL) ALL
| Save the edited file
|
How to use "sudo" without prompt for password (not secure)
export EDITOR=gedit && sudo visudo
| Find this line
|
...
system_username ALL=(ALL) ALL
...
| Replace with the following line
|
system_username ALL=(ALL) NOPASSWD: ALL
| Save the edited file
|
How to explicitly destroy the "sudo" session
sudo -K
How to change files/folders permissions
Right click on files/folders -> Properties
Permissions Tab -> Read/Write/Execute (Checked the permissions for Owner/Group/Others)
How to change files/folders ownership
sudo chown system_username /location_of_files_or_folders
How to change files/folders group ownership
sudo chgrp system_groupname /location_of_files_or_folders
Hardware
How to install Graphics Driver (NVIDIA)
sudo apt-get install nvidia-glx
sudo apt-get install nvidia-settings
sudo cp /etc/X11/xorg.conf /etc/X11/xorg.conf_backup
sudo nvidia-glx-config enable
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/NVIDIA-Settings.desktop
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=NVIDIA Settings
Comment=NVIDIA Settings
Exec=nvidia-settings
Icon=
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;System;
How to load NVIDIA Settings in the background on GNOME Startup
| System -> Preferences -> Sessions
|
| Click on the Startup Programs tab
|
| Click on +ADD
|
| Enter this line in the Startup Command field
|
nvidia-settings --load-config-only
How to disable NVIDIA graphics logo on GNOME startup
sudo cp /etc/X11/xorg.conf /etc/X11/xorg.conf_backup
sudo gedit /etc/X11/xorg.conf
| Find this section
|
...
Section "Device"
Identifier "NVIDIA Corporation NV11 [GeForce2 MX/MX 400]"
Driver "nvidia"
BusID "PCI:1:0:0"
...
| Add the following line below it
|
Option "NoLogo"
How to install Graphics Driver (ATI)
How to identify Modem chipset
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/scanModem.gz
gunzip -c scanModem.gz > scanModem
chmod +x scanModem
sudo cp scanModem /usr/bin/
| To identify Modem chipset
|
sudo scanModem
gedit Modem/ModemData.txt
How to install Modem Driver (SmartLink)
uname -r (must be 2.6.10-5-386)
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/sl-modem-modules-2.6.10-5-386_2.9.9a-1ubuntu2+2.6.10-34_i386.deb
sudo dpkg -i sl-modem-modules-*.deb
sudo apt-get install sl-modem-daemon
How to configure PalmOS Devices
sudo gedit /etc/udev/rules.d/10-custom.rules
| Insert the following line into the new file
|
BUS="usb", SYSFS{product}="Palm Handheld*", KERNEL="ttyUSB*", NAME{ignore_remove}="pilot", MODE="666"
| Save the edited file
|
| System -> Preferences -> PalmOS Devices
|
| Follow the instructions on screen
|
How to list partition tables
sudo fdisk -l
| You can also use System -> Administration -> Disks
|
How to list filesystem disk space usage
df -T -h
| You can also use System -> Administration -> Disks
|
How to list mounted devices
mount
How to list PCI devices
lspci
How to list USB devices
lsusb
How to speed up CD/DVD-ROM
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/cdrom is the location of CD/DVD-ROM
sudo hdparm -d1 /dev/cdrom
sudo cp /etc/hdparm.conf /etc/hdparm.conf_backup
sudo gedit /etc/hdparm.conf
| Append the following lines at the end of file
|
/dev/cdrom {
dma = on
}
| Save the edited file
|
How to mount/unmount CD/DVD-ROM manually, and show all hidden and associated files/folders
- e.g. Assumed that /media/cdrom0/ is the location of CD/DVD-ROM
| To mount CD/DVD-ROM
|
sudo mount /media/cdrom0/ -o unhide
| To unmount CD/DVD-ROM
|
sudo umount /media/cdrom0/
How to forcefully unmount CD/DVD-ROM manually
- e.g. Assumed that /media/cdrom0/ is the location of CD/DVD-ROM
sudo umount /media/cdrom0/ -l
How to remount /etc/fstab without rebooting
sudo mount -a
CD/DVD Burning
How to blank CD-RW/DVD-RW
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/cdrom is the location of CD/DVD-ROM
sudo umount /dev/cdrom
cdrecord dev=/dev/cdrom blank=fast
How to burn files/folders into CD/DVD
nautilus burn:///
| File Browser: CD/DVD Creator
|
| Drag files/folders into window
|
File Menu -> Write to Disc... -> Write
How to burn Image (ISO) files into CD/DVD
Right click on Image (ISO) file -> Write to Disc... -> Write
How to duplicate CD/DVD
How to create Image (ISO) files from CD/DVD
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/cdrom is the location of CD/DVD-ROM
sudo umount /dev/cdrom
dd if=/dev/cdrom of=file.iso bs=1024
How to create Image (ISO) files from folders
mkisofs -o file.iso /location_of_folder/
How to generate MD5 checksum files
md5sum file.iso > file.iso.md5
How to check MD5 checksum of files
- e.g. Assumed that file.iso and file.iso.md5 are in the same folder
md5sum -c file.iso.md5
How to mount/unmount Image (ISO) files without burning
sudo mkdir /media/iso
sudo modprobe loop
sudo mount file.iso /media/iso/ -t iso9660 -o loop
| To unmount Image (ISO) file
|
sudo umount /media/iso/
How to set/change the burn speed for CD/DVD Burner
| Read #General Notes
|
| Applications -> System Tools -> Configuration Editor
|
| Configuration Editor
|
/ -> apps -> nautilus-cd-burner -> default_speed (set/change the burn speed)
How to enable burnproof for CD/DVD Burner
| Read #General Notes
|
| Applications -> System Tools -> Configuration Editor
|
| Configuration Editor
|
/ -> apps -> nautilus-cd-burner -> burnproof (Checked)
How to enable overburn for CD/DVD Burner
| Read #General Notes
|
| Applications -> System Tools -> Configuration Editor
|
| Configuration Editor
|
/ -> apps -> nautilus-cd-burner -> overburn (Checked)
Networking
How to configure Google Talk
How to activate/deactivate network connections
| Read #General Notes
|
| System -> Administration -> Networking
|
| Network settings
|
Connections Tab -> Select "Ethernet connection" -> Activate/Deactivate
How to configure network connections
| Read #General Notes
|
| System -> Administration -> Networking
|
| Network settings
|
Connections Tab -> Select "Ethernet connection" -> Properties
Connection -> Enable this connection (Checked)
Connection Settings -> Configuration: Select "DHCP/Static IP address"
DNS Tab -> DNS Servers -> Add/Delete
How to configure dialup connections
sudo pppconfig
| To connect dialup
|
sudo pon provider_name
| To disconnect dialup
|
sudo poff
How to configure broadband connections
sudo pppoeconf
How to change computer name
| Read #General Notes
|
| System -> Administration -> Networking
|
| Network settings
|
General Tab -> Host Settings -> Hostname: Specify the computer name
| Save and close all opened applications, Reboot computer
|
How to change computer descriptions
sudo cp /etc/samba/smb.conf /etc/samba/smb.conf_backup
sudo gedit /etc/samba/smb.conf
| Find this line
|
...
server string = %h server (Samba, Ubuntu)
...
| Replace with the following line
|
server string = new_computer_descriptions
| Save the edited file
|
sudo testparm
sudo /etc/init.d/samba restart
How to change computer Domain/Workgroup
sudo cp /etc/samba/smb.conf /etc/samba/smb.conf_backup
sudo gedit /etc/samba/smb.conf
| Find this line
|
...
workgroup = MSHOME
...
| Replace with the following line
|
workgroup = new_domain_or_workgroup
| Save the edited file
|
sudo testparm
sudo /etc/init.d/samba restart
How to assign Hostname to local machine with dynamic IP using free DynDNS service
sudo apt-get install ipcheck
sudo gedit /etc/ppp/ip-up.d/dyndns_update.sh
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
#!/bin/sh
USERNAME=myusername
PASSWORD=mypassword
HOSTNAME=myhostname.dyndns.org
cd /root/
if [ -f /root/ipcheck.dat ]; then
ipcheck -r checkip.dyndns.org:8245 $USERNAME $PASSWORD $HOSTNAME
else
ipcheck --makedat -r checkip.dyndns.org:8245 $USERNAME $PASSWORD $HOSTNAME
fi
| Save the edited file
|
sudo chmod 700 /etc/ppp/ip-up.d/dyndns_update.sh
sudo sh /etc/ppp/ip-up.d/dyndns_update.sh
How to share folders the easy way
Right click on folder -> Share folder
Shared folder -> Share with: Select "SMB"
Share properties -> Name: Specify the share name
How to browse network computers
- e.g. Assumed that network connections have been configured properly
- If computers or network folders could not be found, try access them directly
- Read #How to access network folders without mounting
| Places -> Network Servers
|
How to access network folders without mounting
- e.g. Assumed that network connections have been configured properly
- Network computer's IP: 192.168.0.1
- Shared folder's name: linux
| Applications -> Run Application...
|
| Run Application
|
smb://192.168.0.1/linux
How to mount/unmount network folders manually, and allow all users to read
- e.g. Assumed that network connections have been configured properly
- Network computer's IP: 192.168.0.1
- Network computer's Username: myusername
- Network computer's Password: mypassword
- Shared folder's name: linux
- Local mount folder: /media/sharename
| To mount network folder
|
sudo mkdir /media/sharename
sudo mount //192.168.0.1/linux /media/sharename/ -o username=myusername,password=mypassword
| To unmount network folder
|
sudo umount /media/sharename/
How to mount/unmount network folders manually, and allow all users to read/write
- e.g. Assumed that network connections have been configured properly
- Network computer's IP: 192.168.0.1
- Network computer's Username: myusername
- Network computer's Password: mypassword
- Shared folder's name: linux
- Local mount folder: /media/sharename
| To mount network folder
|
sudo mkdir /media/sharename
sudo mount //192.168.0.1/linux /media/sharename/ -o username=myusername,password=mypassword,dmask=777,fmask=777
| To unmount network folder
|
sudo umount /media/sharename/
How to mount network folders on boot-up, and allow all users to read
- e.g. Assumed that network connections have been configured properly
- Network computer's IP: 192.168.0.1
- Network computer's Username: myusername
- Network computer's Password: mypassword
- Shared folder's name: linux
- Local mount folder: /media/sharename
sudo mkdir /media/sharename
sudo gedit /root/.smbcredentials
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
username=myusername
password=mypassword
| Save the edited file
|
sudo chmod 700 /root/.smbcredentials
sudo cp /etc/fstab /etc/fstab_backup
sudo gedit /etc/fstab
| Append the following line at the end of file
|
//192.168.0.1/linux /media/sharename smbfs credentials=/root/.smbcredentials 0 0
How to mount network folders on boot-up, and allow all users to read/write
- e.g. Assumed that network connections have been configured properly
- Network computer's IP: 192.168.0.1
- Network computer's Username: myusername
- Network computer's Password: mypassword
- Shared folder's name: linux
- Local mount folder: /media/sharename
sudo mkdir /media/sharename
sudo gedit /root/.smbcredentials
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
username=myusername
password=mypassword
| Save the edited file
|
sudo chmod 700 /root/.smbcredentials
sudo cp /etc/fstab /etc/fstab_backup
sudo gedit /etc/fstab
| Append the following line at the end of file
|
//192.168.0.1/linux /media/sharename smbfs credentials=/root/.smbcredentials,dmask=777,fmask=777 0 0
How to get ipw2200 and wpa to work
How to Configure and start PPTP tunnels (VPN)
- OR
| Install manually
|
wget -c http://linux.edu.lv/uploads/content/pptp.tar.gz
tar zxvf pptp.tar.gz
sudo sh ./pptp/install
| To configure PPTP Client
|
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/pptpconfig.desktop
| Replace content of this file with the following lines
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=PPTP Client
Comment=Configure and start PPTP tunnels (VPN)
Categories=Application;Network
Encoding=UTF-8
Exec=gksudo pptpconfig
Icon=gnome-remote-desktop.png
StartupNotify=true
Terminal=false
Type=Application
| The above lines change the default file in three ways: the
application is placed in the Application/Internet category, gksudo will
make the application run as superuser and we put a nice icon that
appears in the menu.
|
| Start the client with Applications -> Internet -> PPTP Client
|
Remote Desktop
How to configure remote desktop (not secure)
- Warning! Remote Desktop will only work if there's a GNOME login session
- Leaving computer with an unattended GNOME login session is not secure
- Use (System -> Lock Screen) and switch off the monitor when computer is left unattended
| System -> Preferences -> Remote Desktop
|
| Remote Desktop Preferences
|
Sharing ->
Allow other users to view your desktop (Checked)
Allow other users to control your desktop (Checked)
Security ->
Ask you for confirmation (Un-Checked)
Require the user to enter this password: (Checked)
Password: Specify the password
How to connect into remote Ubuntu desktop
- e.g. Assumed that remote Ubuntu machine have configured Remote Desktop
- Read #How to configure remote desktop (not secure)
- Remote Ubuntu machine: 192.168.0.1
vncviewer -fullscreen 192.168.0.1:0
| To quit vncviewer
|
Press 'F8' -> Quit viewer
How to connect into remote Ubuntu desktop via Windows machine
- e.g. Assumed that remote Ubuntu machine have configured Remote Desktop
- Read #How to configure remote desktop (not secure)
- Remote Ubuntu machine: 192.168.0.1
| Download VNC Viewer: Here
|
Windows
How to mount/unmount Windows partitions (NTFS) manually, and allow all users to read only
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/hda1 is the location of Windows partition (NTFS)
- Local mount folder: /media/windows
| To mount Windows partition
|
sudo mkdir /media/windows
sudo mount /dev/hda1 /media/windows/ -t ntfs -o nls=utf8,umask=0222
| To unmount Windows partition
|
sudo umount /media/windows/
How to mount/unmount Windows partitions (FAT) manually, and allow all users to read/write
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/hda1 is the location of Windows partition (FAT)
- Local mount folder: /media/windows
| To mount Windows partition
|
sudo mkdir /media/windows
sudo mount /dev/hda1 /media/windows/ -t vfat -o iocharset=utf8,umask=000
| To unmount Windows partition
|
sudo umount /media/windows/
How to mount Windows partitions (NTFS) on boot-up, and allow all users to read only
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/hda1 is the location of Windows partition (NTFS)
- Local mount folder: /media/windows
sudo mkdir /media/windows
sudo cp /etc/fstab /etc/fstab_backup
sudo gedit /etc/fstab
| Append the following line at the end of file
|
/dev/hda1 /media/windows ntfs nls=utf8,umask=0222 0 0
How to mount Windows partitions (FAT) on boot-up, and allow all users to read/write
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/hda1 is the location of Windows partition (FAT)
- Local mount folder: /media/windows
sudo mkdir /media/windows
sudo cp /etc/fstab /etc/fstab_backup
sudo gedit /etc/fstab
| Append the following line at the end of file
|
/dev/hda1 /media/windows vfat iocharset=utf8,umask=000 0 0
Security
What are the basic things I need to know about securing my Ubuntu
| Read #General Notes
|
| Ensure hard drive is first in BIOS boot-up sequence
 | To prevent trespassers from using Linux Installation CD which allows them to gain root user access
| | To prevent trespassers from using Linux Live CD (e.g.
UBUNTU/KNOPPIX/MEPIS) which allows them to destroy/browse/share the
entire hard drive
| | To prevent trespassers from installing another Operating System
|
|
| Ensure a password is set for BIOS
| To prevent trespassers from changing the BIOS boot-up sequence
|
|
| Ensure computer is located at a secured place
| To prevent trespassers from removing computer's hard drive
which allows them to destroy/browse/share the entire hard drive from a
different computer
| | To prevent trespassers from removing computer's on-board battery which resets the BIOS password
|
|
| Ensure passwords used on the system cannot be easily guessed
| To prevent trespassers from cracking password file using brute force attacks (e.g. John the Ripper)
| | Create password with minimum length of 8 characters
| | Create password with mixture of characters/numbers, and upper/lower case
|
|
| Ensure interactive editing control for GRUB menu is disabled
|
| Ensure history listing is disabled in Console mode
|
| Ensure Ctrl+Alt+Del is disabled in Console mode
|
| Ensure interactive option is set for remove, copy and move of files/folders in Console mode
|
| For day to day usage, login as a normal user
|
| Disable root user account, use "sudo" instead
| To reduce the amount of time spent with root privileges, and thus the risk of inadvertently executing a command as root
| | "sudo" provides a more useful audit trail (/var/log/auth.log)
| | Read #How to disable root user account
|
|
| Install a Firewall
|
| Perform vulnerability test
|
How to disable all interactive editing control for GRUB menu
grub
grub> md5crypt
Password: ****** (ubuntu)
Encrypted: $1$ZWnke0$1fzDBVjUcT1Mpdd4u/T961 (encrypted password)
grub> quit
sudo cp /boot/grub/menu.lst /boot/grub/menu.lst_backup
sudo gedit /boot/grub/menu.lst
| Find this section
|
...
## password ['--md5'] passwd
# If used in the first section of a menu file, disable all interactive editing
# control (menu entry editor and command-line) and entries protected by the
# command 'lock'
# e.g. password topsecret
# password --md5 $1$gLhU0/$aW78kHK1QfV3P2b2znUoe/
# password topsecret
...
| Add the following line below it
|
password --md5 $1$ZWnke0$1fzDBVjUcT1Mpdd4u/T961 (encrypted password above)
| Find this section
|
...
title Ubuntu, kernel 2.6.10-5-386 (recovery mode)
root (hd0,1)
kernel /boot/vmlinuz-2.6.10-5-386 root=/dev/hda2 ro single
initrd /boot/initrd.img-2.6.10-5-386
savedefault
boot
...
| Replace with the following lines
|
#title Ubuntu, kernel 2.6.10-5-386 (recovery mode)
#root (hd0,1)
#kernel /boot/vmlinuz-2.6.10-5-386 root=/dev/hda2 ro single
#initrd /boot/initrd.img-2.6.10-5-386
#savedefault
#boot
| Save the edited file
|
How to disable history listing in Console mode
rm -f $HOME/.bash_history
touch $HOME/.bash_history
chmod 000 $HOME/.bash_history
How to disable Ctrl-Alt-Del from restarting computer in Console mode
sudo cp /etc/inittab /etc/inittab_backup
sudo gedit /etc/inittab
| Find this line
|
...
ca:12345:ctrlaltdel:/sbin/shutdown -t1 -a -r now
...
| Replace with the following line
|
#ca:12345:ctrlaltdel:/sbin/shutdown -t1 -a -r now
| Save the edited file
|
sudo telinit q
How to enable prompt before removal/overwritten of files/folders in Console mode
sudo cp /etc/bash.bashrc /etc/bash.bashrc_backup
sudo gedit /etc/bash.bashrc
| Append the following lines at the end of file
|
alias rm='rm -i'
alias cp='cp -i'
alias mv='mv -i'
| Save the edited file
|
Rescue Mode
How to gain root user access without login
| Read #General Notes
|
| Easiest method (will not work if GRUB menu password is set)
| Boot-up computer
| | If GRUB menu is hidden, press 'Esc' to enter the GRUB menu
| | Select
|
|
Ubuntu, kernel 2.6.10-5-386 (recovery mode)
| | Press 'Enter' to boot
|
|
| Other methods
|
How to modify kernel boot-up arguments, to gain root user access
| Read #General Notes
|
| Boot-up computer
|
| If GRUB menu is hidden, press 'Esc' to enter the GRUB menu
|
| If GRUB password is set, press 'p' to unlock the GRUB menu
|
| Select
|
Ubuntu, kernel 2.6.10-5-386
| Press 'e' to edit the commands before booting
|
| Select
|
kernel /boot/vmlinuz-2.6.10-5-386 root=/dev/hda2 ro quiet splash
| Press 'e' to edit the selected command in the boot sequence
|
| Add "rw init=/bin/bash" to the end of the arguments
|
grub edit> kernel /boot/vmlinuz-2.6.10-5-386 root=/dev/hda2 ro quiet splash rw init=/bin/bash
| Press 'b' to boot
|
How to use Ubuntu Installation CD, to gain root user access
| Read #General Notes
|
| Boot-up computer into Ubuntu Installation CD
|
| At "boot:" prompt, add "rescue" to the argument
|
boot: rescue
| Follow the instructions on screen
|
How to change root user/main user password if forgotten
# passwd root
| To change main user password
|
# passwd system_main_username
How to change GRUB menu password if forgotten
grub
grub> md5crypt
Password: ****** (ubuntu)
Encrypted: $1$ZWnke0$1fzDBVjUcT1Mpdd4u/T961 (encrypted password)
grub> quit
sudo cp /boot/grub/menu.lst /boot/grub/menu.lst_backup
sudo gedit /boot/grub/menu.lst
| Find this line
|
...
password --md5 $1$gLhU0/$aW78kHK1QfV3P2b2znUoe/
...
| Replace with the following line
|
password --md5 $1$ZWnke0$1fzDBVjUcT1Mpdd4u/T961 (encrypted password above)
| Save the edited file
|
How to restore GRUB menu after Windows installation
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/hda is the location of /boot partition
# grub-install /dev/hda
How to add Windows entry into GRUB menu
- e.g. Assumed that /dev/hda1 is the location of Windows partition
sudo cp /boot/grub/menu.lst /boot/grub/menu.lst_backup
sudo gedit /boot/grub/menu.lst
| Append the following lines at the end of file
|
title Microsoft Windows
root (hd0,0)
savedefault
makeactive
chainloader +1
| Save the edited file
|
How to read Linux partitions (ext2, ext3) in Windows machine
- OR
Tips & Tricks
How to install .deb files via right click menu
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/nautilus-actions_1.0-1_i386.deb
sudo dpkg -ivh nautilus-actions_1.0-1_i386.deb
rm -f nautilus-actions_1.0-1_i386.deb
gedit ~/.installer
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
#!/bin/bash
# nautilus-deb-installer
package_name=`basename $1`
if zenity --question --title "Alert" --text "Do you wish to install the package $package_name?"
then
foo=`gksudo -u root -m "Please enter your password to install $package_name" /bin/echo "0"`
sudo dpkg -i "$1" | zenity --progress --pulsate --title "Please Wait" --text $"Installing $package_name"
zenity --info --title "Installation Complete" --text "The package $package_name has been installed"
else
zenity --info --title "Installation aborted" --text "The package $package_name was not installed"
exit 1
fi
| Save the edited file
|
sudo chmod +x .installer
nautilus-actions-config
| Click on "Add"
|
- Label: Install Package
- Tooltip: Install selected package
- Path: /home/<your username>/.installer
- Parameters: %M
| Go to Conditions tab
|
- File Pattern: *.deb
- Files only
How to restart GNOME without rebooting computer
Press 'Ctrl + Alt + Backspace'
- or
sudo /etc/init.d/gdm restart
How to turn on Num Lock on GNOME startup
sudo apt-get install numlockx
sudo cp /etc/X11/gdm/Init/Default /etc/X11/gdm/Init/Default_backup
sudo gedit /etc/X11/gdm/Init/Default
| Find this line
|
...
exit 0
| Add the following lines above it
|
if [ -x /usr/bin/numlockx ]; then
/usr/bin/numlockx on
fi
How to run programs on startup when login into GNOME
Startup Programs Tab -> Add/Edit/Delete
How to switch to Console mode in GNOME
Press 'Ctrl + Alt + F1' (F2 - F6)
| To switch between consles in Console mode
|
Press 'Alt + F1' (F2 - F6)
| To switch back to GNOME mode
|
Press 'Alt + F7'
How to disable Ctrl+Alt+Backspace from restarting X in GNOME
sudo cp /etc/X11/xorg.conf /etc/X11/xorg.conf_backup
sudo gedit /etc/X11/xorg.conf
| Append the following lines at the end of file
|
Section "ServerFlags"
Option "DontZap" "yes"
EndSection
How to enable Ctrl+Alt+Del to open System Monitor in GNOME
gconftool-2 -t str --set /apps/metacity/global_keybindings/run_command_9 "<Control><Alt>Delete"
gconftool-2 -t str --set /apps/metacity/keybinding_commands/command_9 "gnome-system-monitor"
How to refresh GNOME desktop
killall nautilus
How to refresh GNOME panel
killall gnome-panel
How to open each folder in the same window in Nautilus
| Read #General Notes
|
| Applications -> System Tools -> Configuration Editor
|
| Configuration Editor
|
/ -> apps -> nautilus -> preferences -> always_use_browser (Checked)
How to enable autosave in Gedit and disable creation of some_file~ files
| Read #General Notes
|
| Applications -> System Tools -> Configuration Editor
|
| Configuration Editor
|
/ -> apps -> gedit-2 -> preferences -> editor -> save -> create_backup_copy (Unchecked)
/ -> apps -> gedit-2 -> preferences -> editor -> save -> auto_save (Checked)
How to show all hidden files/folders in Nautilus
| Read #General Notes
|
| Places -> Home Folder
|
| To temporary show all hidden files/folders in Nautilus
|
Press 'Ctrl + H'
| To permanently show all hidden files/folders in Nautilus
|
Edit Menu -> Preferences
Views Tab -> Default View -> Show hidden and backup files (Checked)
How to browse files/folders as root user in Nautilus
sudo gedit /usr/share/applications/Nautilus-root.desktop
| | Insert the following lines into the new file
|
|
[Desktop Entry]
Name=File Browser (Root)
Comment=Browse the filesystem with the file manager
Exec=gksudo "nautilus --browser %U"
Icon=file-manager
Terminal=false
Type=Application
Categories=Application;System;
| To browse files/folders as root user in Nautilus
| Applications -> System Tools -> File Browser (Root)
|
|
How to show Desktop Icons (Computer, Home, Trash)
| Read #General Notes
|
| Applications -> System Tools -> Configuration Editor
|
| Configuration Editor
|
/ -> apps -> nautilus -> desktop ->
computer_icon_visible (Checked)
home_icon_visible (Checked)
trash_icon_visible (Checked)
How to change default file type "Open with" program
Right click on file -> Properties
Open With Tab -> Add
Select "Open with" program
Select "Open with" program (Checked)
How to change preferred email client to Mozilla Thunderbird
Mail Reader Tab -> Default Mail Reader -> Command: mozilla-thunderbird %s
How to open files as root user via right click
gedit $HOME/.gnome2/nautilus-scripts/Open\ as\ root
| Insert the following lines into the new file
|
for uri in $NAUTILUS_SCRIPT_SELECTED_URIS; do
gnome-sudo "gnome-open $uri" &
done
| Save the edited file
|
chmod +x $HOME/.gnome2/nautilus-scripts/Open\ as\ root
Right click on file -> Scripts -> Open as root
How to disable beep sound in Terminal mode
Edit Menu -> Current Profile...
General Tab -> General -> Terminal bell (Un-Checked)
How to load Web site faster in Mozilla Firefox
| Read #General Notes
|
| Applications -> Internet -> Firefox Web Browser
|
| Mozilla Firefox
|
Address Bar -> about:config
Filter: ->
network.dns.disableIPv6 -> true
network.http.pipelining -> true
network.http.pipelining.maxrequests -> 8
network.http.proxy.pipelining -> true
| Restart Mozilla Firefox
|
How to disable beep sound for link find function in Mozilla Firefox
| Read #General Notes
|
| Applications -> Internet -> Firefox Web Browser
|
| Mozilla Firefox
|
Address Bar -> about:config
Filter: -> accessibility.typeaheadfind.enablesound -> false
| Restart Mozilla Firefox
|
How to apt-get the easy way (Synaptic)
| Read #General Notes
|
| System -> Administration -> Synaptic Package Manager
|
- Synaptic Package Manager
| To enable the extra Universe and Multiverse repositories
- Settings -> Repositories
- Click the Settings button
- Tick Show disabled software sources
- On the Repositories dialog box click Add. There are three
separate repositories; Breezy Badger, Security Updates and Updates.
Select each repository and check Officially supported, Restricted
copyright, Community maintained (Universe) and Non-free (Multiverse).
Ensure you click OK between each repository to save your changes
- You should now see checkboxes next to each repository, scroll through the list and ensure they are all checked
|
| To add backports and PLF (new versions of many applications. Unsupported. May contain illegal packages. Use at own risk.)
- Settings -> Repositories
- Click on Add and then Custom
- Paste the following five lines into the box and Click Add Repository, one line at a time:
|
deb http://archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-backports main restricted universe multiverse
deb-src http://archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu breezy-backports main restricted universe multiverse
deb http://ubuntu-backports.mirrormax.net breezy-extras main restricted universe multiverse
deb http://packages.freecontrib.org/ubuntu/plf breezy free non-free
deb-src http://packages.freecontrib.org/ubuntu/plf breezy free non-free
| To refresh the list of known packages (equivalent to apt-get update)
|
Edit Menu -> Reload Package Information
| To install all possible upgrades (equivalent to apt-get upgrade)
|
Edit Menu -> Mark All Upgrades... -> Default Upgrade
Edit Menu -> Apply Marked Changes
| To search for a package (equivalent to apt-cache search package_name)
|
Edit Menu -> Search... Specify the package name
| To install the selected package (equivalent to apt-get install package_name)
|
Select "package_name"
Package Menu -> Mark for Installation
Edit Menu -> Apply Marked Changes
| To remove installed package (equivalent to apt-get remove package_name)
|
Select "package_name"
Package Menu -> Mark for Removal
Edit Menu -> Apply Marked Changes
What packages do the extra repositories provide
| The PLF repository provides
- DVD playback support (libdvdcss2)
- Skype
- Sun Java SDK (Software Development Kit) and JRE (Java Runtime Environment)
- Opera Web browser
- RealPlayer 10
- Win32 binary multimedia codecs
|
How to install/uninstall .deb files
sudo dpkg -i package_file.deb
| To uninstall .deb file
|
sudo dpkg -r package_name
How to convert .rpm files to .deb files
sudo alien package_file.rpm
How to rename all files in directory at once
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/mvb_1.6.tgz
sudo tar zxvf mvb_1.6.tgz -C /usr/share/
sudo chown -R root:root /usr/share/mvb_1.6/
sudo ln -fs /usr/share/mvb_1.6/mvb /usr/bin/mvb
| To rename all files in directory at once
|
mvb NEW_NAME
How to manipulate all image files in directory at once
sudo apt-get install imagemagick
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/bbips.0.3.2.sh
sudo cp bbips.0.3.2.sh /usr/bin/bbips
sudo chmod 755 /usr/bin/bbips
| To manipulate all image files in directory at once
|
bbips
How to set System-wide Environment Variables
sudo cp /etc/bash.bashrc /etc/bash.bashrc_backup
sudo gedit /etc/bash.bashrc
| Append the System-wide Environment Variables at the end of file
|
| Save the edited file
|
How to save "man" outputs into files
man command | col -b > file.txt
How to hide GRUB menu on boot-up
sudo cp /boot/grub/menu.lst /boot/grub/menu.lst_backup
sudo gedit /boot/grub/menu.lst
| Find this line
|
...
#hiddenmenu
...
| Replace with the following line
|
hiddenmenu
| Save the edited file
|
How to change the timeout seconds for GRUB menu on boot-up
sudo cp /boot/grub/menu.lst /boot/grub/menu.lst_backup
sudo gedit /boot/grub/menu.lst
| Find this line
|
...
timeout 3
...
| Replace with the following line
|
timeout X_seconds
| Save the edited file
|
How to change default Operating System boot-up for GRUB menu
sudo cp /boot/grub/menu.lst /boot/grub/menu.lst_backup
sudo gedit /boot/grub/menu.lst
| Find this line
|
...
default 0
...
| Replace with the following line
|
default X_sequence
| Save the edited file
|
How to display Splash Image for GRUB menu on boot-up
- e.g. Assumed that hd0,1 is the location of Ubuntu boot partition
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/ubuntu.xpm.gz
chmod 644 ubuntu.xpm.gz
sudo mkdir /boot/grub/images
sudo cp ubuntu.xpm.gz /boot/grub/images/
sudo cp /boot/grub/menu.lst /boot/grub/menu.lst_backup
sudo gedit /boot/grub/menu.lst
| Find this section
|
# menu.lst - See: grub(8), info grub, update-grub(8)
# grub-install(8), grub-floppy(8),
# grub-md5-crypt, /usr/share/doc/grub
# and /usr/share/doc/grub-doc/.
...
| Add the following line below it
|
splashimage (hd0,1)/boot/grub/images/ubuntu.xpm.gz
| Save the edited file
|
How to convert Wallpaper to Splash Image for GRUB menu
- e.g. Assumed that wallpaper.png is the Wallpaper to be converted to Splash Image
- splashimage.xpm.gz is the Splash Image for GRUB menu
convert -resize 640x480 -colors 14 wallpaper.png splashimage.xpm && gzip splashimage.xpm
How to temporary skip boot-up services
Press 'Ctrl + C'
How to permanently disable/enable boot-up services
How to clean /tmp/ folder contents on shutdown
sudo cp /etc/init.d/sysklogd /etc/init.d/sysklogd_backup
sudo gedit /etc/init.d/sysklogd
| Find this section
|
...
stop)
log_begin_msg "Stopping system log daemon..."
start-stop-daemon --stop --quiet --oknodo --exec $binpath --pidfile $pidfile
log_end_msg $?
...
| Add the following line below it
|
rm -fr /tmp/* /tmp/.??*
| Save the edited file
|
How to scroll up and down to view previous outputs in Console mode
Press 'Shift + Page Up'
| To scroll down to view previously outputs
|
Press 'Shift + Page Down'
How to find out which version of Ubuntu I am using
cat /etc/issue
How to set up automatic background change (GNOME)
mkdir ~/.backgrounds
cd ~/.backgrounds
wget -c http://easylinux.info/uploads/change_background.py
chmod +x change_background.py
| To change desktop background every time you reboot your computer
|
export EDITOR=gedit && crontab -e
| Add the following line at the end of file
|
@reboot ~/.backgrounds/change_background.py
- For more information about periodic processes see
man 5 crontab
How to set up automatic background change (KDE)
| Go to K-menu -> System Settings -> Desktop -> Background
|
| Choose Slide Show
|
| Press Setup...
|
| Press Add... to add pictures you wish to see as desktop background
|
| Set 'Change picture after' to desired picture rotation interval.
|
| Press 'OK'
|
How to add keyboard layouts for other languages
| Go to System -> Preferences -> Keyboard
|
| Choose Layouts
|
| Press Add... to add the secondary keyboard layout. It is simpler to have two layouts; the maximum is currently four for Xorg.
|
| Choose Layout Options
|
| Expand option Group Shift/Lock behaviour
|
| Choose the key combination that enables you to switch between
keyboard layouts. The default is by pressing both Alt keys at the same
time. A common alternative is to use Alt+Shift.
|
| Press Close.
|
See #How to add the Keyboard (Layout) Indicator applet to add the Keyboard Indicator applet.
How to add the Keyboard (Layout) Indicator applet
| Right-click on empty space on the top panel so that you see the pop-up menu.
|
| Click Add to Panel...
|
| Choose Keyboard Indicator (it is under the Utilities section, at the end)
|
The Keyboard Indicator applet appears on the panel. The default
language should be USA for U.S. English. You can either right-click on
this applet for more options or see above on how to configure.
How to type extended characters
| Add the keyboard layout US English International (with dead keys)
|
| Make US English International (with dead keys) the default keyboard layout.
|
The key marked ['"] is now a dead key. When you press it, nothing
happens. However if you press a consonant immediately afterwards, the
consonant appears with an accent.
| ' + a = á
|
| ' + e = é
|
| and so on for i-í, o-ó, y-ý, c-c', z-z', n-n', l-l', u-ú, r-r'
|
| " + a = ä
|
| " + e = ë
|
| and so on for y-ÿ, u-ü, i-ï, o-ö
|
Similarly, ` and a consonant generates à, è, ù, ì, ò.
Similarly, ~ and a consonant generates ã, u~, i~, õ, ñ.
To type ' and ", press RightAlt+' and RightAlt+" respectively.
To type ' and ", you may also press '+<space> and "+<space> respectively.
There are more characters available by keeping RightAlt pressed and typing a character. Therefore,
| RightAlt+q = ä
|
| RightAlt+w = å
|
| RightAlt+e = é
|
| RightAlt+r = ®
|
| RightAlt+t = þ
|
| RightAlt+y = ü
|
| RightAlt+u = ú
|
| RightAlt+i = í
|
| RightAlt+o = ó
|
| RightAlt+p = ö
|
| RightAlt+[ and ] for « and » respectively.
|
| RightAlt+a = á
|
| RightAlt+s = ß
|
| RightAlt+d = ð
|
| RightAlt+l = ø
|
| RightAlt+; = ¶
|
| RightAlt+: = °
|
| RightAlt+z = æ
|
| RightAlt+c = ©
|
| RightAlt+n = ñ
|
| RightAlt+m = µ
|
| RightAlt+, = ç
|
| RightAlt+/ = ¿
|
| RightAlt+1 = ¡
|
|