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Welcome...
 20 How to Back Up Ubuntu
22 Using a Different Desktop
24 Installing GNOME Shell
26 Installing Xfce
28 Installing KDE Plasma
30 Installing LXDE
32 Installing Cinnamon
34 Installing MATE
36 Make Ubuntu Look Like Windows
38 Make Ubuntu Look Like a Mac Desktop
40 Fun Things to do in the Terminal
42 More Fun Things to do in Terminal
44 Fine Tune Ubuntu
46 Maintenance and Troubleshooting
48 How to Change the Default Browser
50 How to Install Adobe Flash
52 Connecting to Windows Shares
06 Advanced Terminal Features and Tips
54 Creating Bash Scripts and
08 Managing Users
Automating Tasks
10 Security and Encryption
56 Gaming on Ubuntu
12 Running Windows Apps on Ubuntu
58 Where to get Games for Ubuntu
14 Installing an Example Windows App
60 Becoming Anonymous Online
16 How to Create a PDF in Ubuntu
62 Build an Ubuntu Media Server
18 How to Edit PDFs in Ubuntu
64 How to Remote Desktop to Ubuntu
from Windows
66 How to Remote Desktop to Windows
and a Mac from Ubuntu
68 How to Set Up an Ubuntu-based NAS
70 Great Apps for Ubuntu
72 Hardware & Software Showcase

4 [Link]
6 BDM’s Manual Series | Volume 10
6RQRZ\RXoYHJRWWKHKDQJRI8EXQWXDQGKRZLW
ZRUNVLWoVWLPHWRGHOYHDOLWWOHdeeper into its
inner workings. In this next section we’ll look at
managing user accounts, VHFXULQJDQGPDNLQJVXUH
8EXQWXLVDVSULYDWHDVSRVVLEOHSURJUDPPLQJ
VFULSWVWRKHOSDXWRPDWHWDVNVDQGHYHQWZHDNLQJ
8EXQWXVRLWoOOSHUIRUPKRZ\RXZDQWLW

7KH8EXQWX0DQXDO 7
 Advanced Terminal
Features and Tips
1RZWKDW\RXoUHPRUHIDPLOLDUZLWKWKH7HUPLQDODQG8EXQWXLWVHOILWoVWLPHWRVWHSXSDJHDU
and look at some of the more advanced command line features and tips to help you make the
PRVWRIWKH7HUPLQDO

TAMING THE TERMINAL

Here are ten Terminal tips that will help you be more productive and a better Ubuntu and Linux user when dealing with the
command line.

STEP 1 The command line involves a fair amount of keyboard STEP 3 The commands for Ubuntu can, at times, be a little
work. Sometimes you’ll end up needing to type a unfriendly. Mkdir: make a directory or folder; clear, to
long-winded command a few times, making slight alterations along FOHDUWKHVFUHHQ2OG'26XVHUVZLOOUHFDOOGLƪHUHQWYHUVLRQV<RXFDQ
the way. Rather than start again, tap the up arrow on the keyboard to customise the commands, however, with alias. Start with this:
cycle through the last commands. alias update=”sudo apt-get update”. Now simply type:
update, to run the sudo apt-get update command without the
extra keystrokes.

STEP 2 As an alternative to using the up arrow, enter: STEP 4 Those familiar to DOS will probably prefer the cls
history. This will display the command history. To command to clearing the screen. If that’s the case,
improve the function, enter: HISTTIMEFORMAT=”%d/%m/%y %T “, then enter: alias cls=”clear”. When you enter cls next, the
then enter the history command again. You’ll now have a logged, screen will issue the clear command behind the alias.
time-stamped history of all commands.

8 [Link]
STEP 5 In addition to the alias command, you can also create STEP 8 Occasionally an app will crash, refusing to be closed.
aliases for chained commands. Take the sudo apt-get When that happens, type: ps- A into the Terminal to
update && sudo apt-get upgrade command, these can be named in an display all the running processes. It could be a long list, so if Firefox
alias: alias sysupdate=”sudo apt-get update && sudo had crashed use: SV$_JUHSL¿UH. The number next to
apt-get upgrade”. Firefox is a PID (Process ID), use: kill 4756 to close the app.

STEP 6 You can also combine an alias with another command. STEP 9 When you run an app from within the Terminal the app
If you create an alias for sudo apt-get install, as: alias will open, leaving the Terminal unusable until the app is
install=”sudo apt-get install”, you can then install any apps closed. To enable the Terminal to be used while the app is open,
simply as: install plank. The aliases you create will only last as simply add an ampersand to the end of the command. Such as: vlc
long as the session. You’ll need to edit the /etc/[Link]ƬOHWR &. With the app running, press Enter to re-enable the Terminal.
enter them permanently into the system.

STEP 7 ,I\RXFDQoWUHFDOOZKHUHDFHUWDLQƬOHLVORFDWHGWKHQ STEP 10 Recall the graphical command box when installing
\RXFDQXVHWKHnƬQGoFRPPDQGWRKHOS\RXRXW,Q the Ubuntu Restricted Extras? Well it’s remarkably
WKLVH[DPSOH\RXoUHORRNLQJIRUDƬOHVRPHZKHUHLQWKHV\VWHP easy to create your own using the command ‘whiptail’. For example,
called [Link], you’d enter: ¿QG±QDPHWHV . This will look for try: whiptail --msgbox “Hello World” 5 60 --title “Test
FDVHVHQVLWLYHƬOHVEHJLQQLQJZLWKtes. For a search regardless of Box” --backtitle “Just a test..”. You can create menus and
case, use ±LQDPH. choices with whiptail. Use man whiptail to read the help manual.

[Link] 9
 Managing Users
:KHQ\RXƬUVWLQVWDOO8EXQWXLWLVFRQƬJXUHGIRUXVHZLWKDVLQJOHXVHU:KLOVWVKDULQJDXVHU
DFFRXQWZLWKWKHHQWLUHIDPLO\LVƬQHWKHUHPD\FRPHDWLPHZKHQ\RXoOOQHHGWRFUHDWH
separate users with their own unique Home folders.

NEW USERS
+DYLQJGLƪHUHQWXVHUVPHDQVWKDWHDFKXVHUZLOORQO\KDYHDFFHVVWRFHUWDLQSDUWVRIWKHV\VWHPDQGZLOOKDYHGLƪHUHQWVHWWLQJV
IURPWKHRWKHUV

STEP 1 There are several ways in which to create a new user STEP 3 7KHPDLQƬUVWFUHDWHGDFFRXQWKDV$GPLQLVWUDWRU
account. Start by opening the System Settings app access to the system, which you need to update the
from the Launcher, then click on the User Accounts icon in the system, install apps and so on. To create a new user, click on the plus
System section. symbol located in the bottom left of the app.

STEP 4 You now have a choice of two Account Types: Standard

and Administrator. Basically, an Administrator has
access to all areas of Ubuntu, whereas a Standard account is limited.
Let’s begin by creating a Standard account. Enter the full name of the
user, and in the Username drop-down box you’ll have suggested
STEP 2 The User Accounts app will display the current users usernames, or enter your own.
set up for the system; this should be just yourself. It’s
locked by default, so to view more settings or add another user you’ll
need to click the Unlock button in the top right corner and enter your
password to authenticate the action.

10 [Link]
STEP 5 Click Add to create the new user and enter your STEP 7 Clicking the Automatic Login slider will stop yours, or
SDVVZRUGWRFRQƬUPWKHDFWLRQ7KHQHZXVHULVQRZ any other account, from automatically logging into the
added to the system but by default it’s disabled. Click on the Account system when the computer is powered up. The tick beside the
Disabled box next to the Password option in the new account. This accounts represents those set to auto-login. With the account now
will need you to enter a password for the new user. set up, click your session options and Log Out. You can now log in as
the new user under their name.

STEP 6 The cogs in the New Password section will STEP 8 The new Standard User account will have certain
automatically choose a password for you or you can restrictions. For example, the new account user won’t
enter your own, making sure it’s strong enough to avoid any hacking be able to run sudo apt-get update, even after entering their
attempts. When you’re ready, click the Change button to continue, password due the user not having Administrator privileges.
this will bring you back to the User Accounts set up screen.

COMMAND LINE ACCOUNTS

$V\RXoGH[SHFW\RXFDQDOVRFUHDWHDQHZXVHUIURPZLWKLQWKHFRPPDQG/LQH2SHQXSD7HUPLQDOVHVVLRQXQGHUWKHPDLQ
Administrator account.

STEP 1 The process for adding a new user from the command STEP 2 You can check the details and account type for the new
line is relatively simple. To begin with, type: sudo user from within the User Accounts app. If you want to
adduser <username>, where <username> is the new user’s login delete a user from Ubuntu, you can either enter: sudo deluser
name. You’ll then be asked to create a new password for the user, <username> in the Terminal or click the minus symbol in User
DORQJZLWKWKHLUIXOOQDPHDQGRWKHUGHWDLOV&OLFNn\oWRFRQƬUPWKH Accounts.
details and create the user account.

[Link] 11
 Security and Encryption
Security and privacy are words we’ve heard so much about in recent years. It’s not just secret
government organisations that we need to secure against, it’s a whole new generation of
KDFNHUV6HFXULW\LVQoWDRQHVL]HƬWVDOOVROXWLRQWKHUHDUHPDQ\OD\HUVWRFRQVLGHU

SECURITY BASICS
,QWKLVVHFWLRQZHoOOORRNDWVRPHRIWKHEHVWZD\VWRVHFXUH\RXU8EXQWXFRPSXWHUDQGKHOSSUHYHQWDQ\XQZDQWHGLQWUXVLRQV1R
V\VWHPLVKDFNSURRIEXW\RXFDQFHUWDLQO\PDNHLWGLƯFXOWIRUWKHKDFNHUWRJHWLQ

STEP 1 The foundation of any secure operating system starts STEP 3 Only install apps from trusted sources. Whilst it’s
with the user’s password. However awkward it may be good to install the latest version of a particular app or
to enter a password that contains letters, numbers and symbols, it will install something that appears really useful or fun, using an
SD\RƪLQWKHORQJUXQ6WDUWE\LQVWDOOLQJDSDVVZRUGJHQHUDWRUsudo untrusted repository could allow a hacker to gain access to your
apt-get install apg. Then run apg to create some strong V\VWHP,ILQGRXEWUHVHDUFKWKHDSSƬUVWRURQO\HYHUXVH&DQRQLFDO
passwords. Use these for new and current user accounts. Partner repos.

STEP 2 Ubuntu locks out the administrator, or Root account, STEP 4 Don’t be fooled into thinking Linux is a virus-proof
and uses the sudo command. Again, it may be awkward system. Whilst fewer viruses for Linux exist, compared
but consider a day-to-day Standard user account over the one that has WR:LQGRZVWKH\oUHVWLOOSUHVHQW7KHGLƪHUHQFHLVWKDW8EXQWXLV
full administrator access through sudo. Again, it’s awkward changing GHVLJQHGGLƪHUHQWO\DQGEHLQJLQIHFWHGE\DYLUXVLVGLƯFXOW,I\RX
accounts to install and update but ultimately worth the hassle. work with Windows PCs though, an anti-virus app is recommended.
Enter: sudo apt-get install clamav && sudo apt-get
install clamtk.

12 [Link]
STEP 5 ClamAV is STEP 6 By default any new user to Ubuntu can access any
an open other user’s Home area. Securing the Home area for
source anti-virus (AV) new users therefore is certainly worth considering. To do this, enter:
engine. The ClamTK app is sudo gedit /etc/[Link]. Scroll down to the section DIR_
the graphical front-end to MODE=0755. Change the 0755 to 0700. Click Save, then exit Gedit.
that engine. You can run All new users’ Home areas are inaccessible to other users.
ClamTK from a search in
the Dash. This AV app will
scan for viruses, malware,
Trojans and other threats;
VSHFLƬFDOO\:LQGRZV
based threats. Make sure
it’s up-to-date, and scan
the system daily.

ENCRYPTION
(QFU\SWLRQZLOOORFNDƬOHRUIROGHURUHYHQDQHQWLUHKDUGGULYHZLWKDQDOJRULWKPXQWLOWKHFRUUHFWNH\RUSDVVZRUGLVXVHGWR
unlock it.

STEP 1 :KHQ\RXƬUVWLQVWDOOHG8EXQWX\RXKDGWKHRSWLRQWR STEP 3 7KHƬUVWVWDJHLVWRHQWHUDVHFXUHSDVVZRUGRUORJLQ

encrypt the Home area. If you didn’t do so, then you passphrase. You won’t see any text when typing, so
can encrypt a folder by installing an encryption app: sudo apt-get PDNHVXUH\RXoUHFRQƬGHQW\RXoUHHQWHULQJDSDVVSKUDVHFRUUHFWO\DV
install ecryptfs-utils. you’ll need to remember it.

STEP 4 You’ll now be asked for a mount passphrase. The

GLƪHUHQFHEHWZHHQSDVVSKUDVHVLVWKHORJLQ
passphrase will need to be entered each time to access the encrypted
folder, whereas mount passphrase is the master key to unlock. Press
Enter to auto-generate a mount passphrase. Now type: ecryptfs-
unwrap-passphrase, enter the login passphrase and note the
STEP 2 To set up encryption for a folder within your Home mount passphrase. Follow the on-screen instructions.
area, for example a folder called private, you’ll need to
run the ecryptfs app. Type: ecryptfs-setup-private to begin the
process of creating and encrypting the private folder.

[Link] 13
 Running Windows Apps
on Ubuntu with Wine
5HPDUNDEO\LWoVSRVVLEOHWRUXQVRPHQDWLYH:LQGRZVSURJUDPVIURPZLWKLQ8EXQWX
By using an app called Wine, some Windows programs can be successfully installed and
H[HFXWHGDVLIWKH\oUHUXQQLQJRƪDQRULJLQDO:LQGRZV3&

WINE TASTING
%RWK:LQGRZVEDVHGJDPHVDQGDSSVDUHFDSDEOHRIEHLQJUXQZLWK:LQH :LQH,V1RWDQ(PXODWRU WKHUHoVDIXOOOLVWDYDLODEOHDW
[Link]

STEP 1 <RXQHHGWRHQDEOHWKHELWV\VWHPDUFKLWHFWXUHƬUVW STEP 3 With the new repo added, run sudo apt-get
before installing Wine, this is to allow the maximum update. With the system updated and using the new
compatibility. In the Terminal, type: sudo dpkg --add- repo, install the latest Development Branch of Wine (the
architecture i386. Development Branch is used by most bleeding edge Wine users) with
the command: sudo apt-get install --install-recommends
winehq-devel.

STEP 2 Now add the WineHQ respository, where you can get STEP 4 The installation for Wine is quite hefty, over 600MB.
KROGRIWKHLQVWDOODWLRQƬOHVIRU:LQHLWVHOI7\SHsudo Once it’s all done, you can check the installed version
add-apt-repository ppa:wine/wine-builds. Press Enter to with wine --version. At this time, the latest development
add the repo and continue. YHUVLRQZDVZLQHUFZKLFKƬ[HVQXPHURXVEXJVDVVRFLDWHG
ZLWKWKHUXQQLQJRIVHYHUDOJDPHVDQGDSSVDVZHOODVƬ[HVIRUWKH
FRUH:LQHƬOHV

14 [Link]
STEP 5 Still in the Terminal, enter: winecfg. This will launch STEP 8 The Desktop
WKH:LQHFRQƬJXUDWLRQZL]DUGWKDWZLOOEHJLQWKH Integration
SURFHVVRIVHWWLQJXS:LQHIRUXVH7KHƬUVWPHVVDJHER[ZLOODVN\RX tab lets you change the
to install an extra package to handle .NET application. Click on the Windows theme and it will
Install button to continue. There may be more packages to install, so link the usual My
continue clicking Install until done. Documents, Pictures, Videos
and so on with your Ubuntu
Home folders, Documents,
Pictures etc.

STEP 6 When the installations of the extra packages are STEP 9 In the Drives tab you can specify a folder on your
complete, press Enter in the Terminal to return you to Ubuntu system to be presented as a Windows drive
the command prompt. Type winecfg again and the Windows letter. For example, any Windows games stored in a ~/Downloads/
&RQƬJXUDWLRQDSSZLOOEHGLVSOD\HG7KH$SSOLFDWLRQVWDELVZKHUH\RX WinGames folder, can be mapped to a D: drive in Wine.
can alter the way Wine runs Windows apps, specifying a certain
version of Windows, for example.

STEP 7 The Libraries tab allows you to alter any core Windows STEP 10 The Audio tab will ensure that any sounds generated
ƬOHVWRVXLWWKHDSS\RXoUHUXQQLQJ*HQHUDOO\VSHDNLQJ from the Windows apps will be audible through your
WKHGHIDXOWVZLOOVXƯFHPRVWDSSV7KH*UDSKLFVWDEFDQFKDQJHWKH Ubuntu sound set up. You can click the Test Sound button to make
display of any running Windows apps, using an emulated virtual desktop. sure it’s all working.

[Link] 15
 Installing an Example
Windows App in Ubuntu
with Wine
Now that you have Wine installed, you can begin to install some Windows apps; as we said,
QRWDOO:LQGRZVDSSVDUHJRLQJWRZRUNIURPWKHVWDUWVRPHZLOOUHTXLUHFRQƬJXULQJZLWKLQ
Winecfg, others may not work at all. Experimenting with what you have is the key.
WINE APPS
:LQHLVQoWDOZD\VJRLQJWRZRUNWKHZD\\RXZDQWLWWR,WoVUXQQLQJDQDSSWKDWZDVQoWGHVLJQHGIRUWKHRSHUDWLQJV\VWHPDIWHU
DOOEXWLWoVVWLOOIXQWRXVH

STEP 1 Let’s STEP 3 Click the OK button to close wincfg. You can now
begin navigate to where the fake C: drive is installed in
with one of the built-in 8EXQWX<RXoOOƬQGWKLVDW~/.wine/drive_c. The full stop preceding
Windows apps that the wine folder indicates a hidden folder. To enable viewing of hidden
comes with Wine, IROGHUVLQ)LOHVƬOHPDQDJHUFOLFNRQWKHPLGGOHRSWLRQEXWWRQDQG
WordPad. Start, if you choose Show Hidden Files.
haven’t already, by
running winecfg. When
it’s launched, in the
Application tab, click on
the drop-down box next
to Windows Version and
set it to Windows 10.

STEP 2 Now click

on the STEP 4 Using Files, navigate to .wine/drive_c/Program
Add Application button Files (x86)/Windows NT/Accessories. The
and use the File ZRUGSDGH[HƬOHVKRXOGEHWKHUHDOO\RXQHHGWRGRGRXEOHFOLFNLWWR
Manager window to RSHQLWWKURXJK:LQH,ILWGRHVQoWZRUNULJKWFOLFNWKHƬOHDQGFKRRVH
navigate to Program Open With Windows Windows Program Loader, from the menu.
Files (x86) >
Windows NT >
Accessories. Click on
[Link], then
open. This will put the
app into the Application
Settings window list.
You may need to change
the app’s Windows
Version to 10 again.

16 [Link]
STEP 5 All being well you should be able to successfully use STEP 6 Winetricks should now be in the Launcher. Winetricks is
Wordpad within Ubuntu. Another handy Wine tool to a script to help install Windows apps and games. If you
have installed is Winetricks. Open the Ubuntu Software portal and have a game, such as Elder Scrolls: Oblivion, you can click Install a Game
HQWHUZLQHLQWRWKHVHDUFKƬHOG%URZVHIRU:LQHWULFNVFOLFNRQWKH and choose the game from the list. Providing you have the disc or
Install button and enter your password. download handy, point Winetricks to it and it will do the rest for you.

INSTALLING FROM A WINDOWS EXECUTABLE

$WVRPHSRLQW\RXoOOSUREDEO\QHHGWRLQVWDOOD:LQGRZVDSSIURPLWVH[HFXWDEOHWKH(;(RU06,ƬOH:KLOHPRVWFRPSOH[
Windows executables won’t install, some more simple apps will.

STEP 1 For this example you’re going to install a Windows app STEP 3 Run through the installation as you normally would.
called Spectaculator, a ZX Spectrum emulator that runs When you get to the installation destination part of
LQ:LQGRZV;3RQZDUG<RXDOUHDG\KDYHWKH06,ƬOHWRVHWLWXS WKHLQVWDOOFOLFNWRFXVWRPLVHLWDQGPDNHVXUHLWoVFRQƬJXUHGWRWKH
copied to the ~/Downloads folder in your Home area. fake C: drive correctly.

STEP 4 If you now relaunch winecfg, use Application

Settings > Add Application, to locate the
STEP 2 $V\RXGLGZLWKUXQQLQJWKH:RUGSDGH[HƬOH newly installed app and add it to the Application Settings list.
ULJKWFOLFNWKH06,ƬOHDQGFKRRVHOpen With Wine Highlight it and choose the Windows Version. Click OK, locate the
Windows Program Loader. The app’s installer should open as it app from Files in the fake C: drive and run it as you did with the
would if it was running on a Windows PC. Wordpad example.

[Link] 17
 How to Create a PDF in
Ubuntu
6LQFHEHLQJPDGHWKHRSHQVWDQGDUGRQOLQHGRFXPHQWLQ$GREHoV3')KDVEHHQD
EOHVVLQJDQGDKHDGDFKHWRWKRVHZKRXVHWKHP7KHHDUO\GD\VRI3')FUHDWLRQUHTXLUHG
H[SHQVLYHVRIWZDUHRUDSSVWKDWZHUHQoWYHU\JRRG7KHVHGD\VWKHSURFHVVLVPXFKHDVLHU

EASY PDFs
7KHUHDUHQXPHURXVRSWLRQVDYDLODEOHZLWKWKHSUHLQVWDOOHG8EXQWXDSSVZKHQLWFRPHVWRFUHDWLQJD3')HLWKHUIURPD
document or an image.

STEP 1 We’ll start with creating a PDF from a document. The STEP 3 Click the Export to PDF icon. The export window is
example we have to work with was created with a identical to that of a standard save document, except
recent version of MS Word and as such is a DOCX document. What IRUWKH3')RSWLRQLQWKHƬOHIRUPDWW\SHER[LQWKHERWWRPFRUQHU
you want to do is convert that to a PDF. First, double-click the $OO\RXQHHGWRGRLVFKHFNWKHQDPHRIWKHƬOHWREHH[SRUWHGDQG
GRFXPHQWWRRSHQLWLQ/LEUH2ƯFH:ULWHU that its location are correct.

STEP 4 Click on the Save button when you’re ready and the
STEP 2 With the document open make sure the formatting is document will be exported and saved with the chosen
correct, especially if you’re opening a document name in the chosen location. You can then check the export was
FUHDWHGIURPDQRWKHUZRUGSURFHVVRU/LEUH2ƯFH:ULWHUKDVDKDQG\ successful by opening the document with Document Viewer.
shortcut icon in the top toolbar for exporting a document as a PDF,
it’s between the Save and Print icons.

18 [Link]
STEP 5 /LEUH2ƯFH:ULWHULVQoWWKHRQO\SURGXFWLYLW\DSSWKDW STEP 8 7KH3')2SWLRQVZLOODOORZ\RXWRƬQHWXQHWKH3')
can handle exporting to a PDF. Calc has the same conversion process. Adding digital signatures, setting
functionality, with the Export to PDF in the same place in the top security options and the overall quality of the images within the
toolbar as Writer. document. If you feel your PDF is lacking something from the simple
Export to PDF option, then look to here.

STEP 6 7KHVDPHIXQFWLRQDOLW\FDQDOVREHIRXQGLQ/LEUH2ƯFH STEP 9 0RVWLPDJHHGLWRUVDYDLODEOHZLOOVDYHDSLFWXUHƬOHDVD

Impress, using the same icon located in the top toolbar. PDF, however we feel GIMP has some of the best
,QVKRUWDOOWKH/LEUH2ƯFHDSSVZLOODOORZ\RXWR([SRUWWKHFUHDWHG options available to help you create, or convert, the perfect PDF. If
or opened document as a PDF. you haven’t already installed GIMP, run sudo apt-get update &&
sudo apt-get install gimp, from the Terminal.

STEP 7 While the Export to PDF option is a quick, one-step STEP 10 Open GIMP and use File > Open to display the image
solution that will satisfy most users, you can opt for a you want to export as a PDF. With the image open,
higher degree of customisation for your PDF. By clicking, in any of choose File > Export As...RSWLQJIRU3')LQWKHSRVVLEOHƬOHIRUPDWV
WKH/LEUH2ƯFHDSSVFile > Export As PDF, a PDF Options window in the bottom right-hand corner of the Export Image window. Change
will be displayed. the image name to end in .PDF and click Export for further options.

[Link] 19
 How to Edit PDFs in
Ubuntu
&UHDWLQJD3')LVVLPSOHHQRXJKEXWHGLWLQJD3')KDVDOZD\VSURYHGWULFN\ZLWKRXWWKH
ULJKWVRIWZDUH$SSVWKDWDOORZ\RXWRHGLW3')VFDQEHH[WUDRUGLQDULO\H[SHQVLYHWKDQNIXOO\
WKRXJK8EXQWXFDQKHOS\RXRXW

PDF EDITS
<RXFDQHGLWD3')LQ8EXQWXZLWKRXWWRRPXFKKDVVOH+RZHYHULWDOOGHSHQGVRQKRZWKH3')ZDVFUHDWHGLQWKHƬUVWSODFH
Some require a little more work than others.

STEP 1 7KHƬUVWFKRLFHIRUHGLWLQJD3')OLHVZLWK/LEUH2ƯFH STEP 3 When you’re done with the editing, click on the Export
Writer. For example, take the PDF we created in the as PDF icon again in the top toolbar, or for more
previous section. Simply open Writer, click on the Open icon, or use options use File > Export as PDF. Clicking save will simply save the
File > Open, and point to the previously created PDF. GRFXPHQWDVD/LEUH2ƯFHFUHDWHGƬOH

STEP 4 Not all PDFs are created equally however; some have
STEP 2 'HSHQGLQJRQWKHVL]HRIWKH3'ILQTXHVWLRQ:ULWHU been created by an Adobe product and others created
can take a little while to convert and open the PDF for E\GLƪHUHQWDSSV7KHVHZLOORIWHQKDYHDOD\HURIVHFXULW\SUHYHQWLQJ
editing. With the previous PDF open, one that was created from them from being re-edited, which is reasonable for copyrighted
within Writer, you should now be able to double-click a paragraph and material. You can open such a PDF in Writer but you’ll only be able to
edit the text. edit the images and text placements.

20 [Link]
STEP 5 Another app worth looking into for editing an existing STEP 7 One last app worth looking into for PDF editing duties
PDF, although not the text or a PDF created form a is Scribus. Scribus is an open source desktop publishing
scanned document, is Inkscape. Use: sudo apt-get install app, it’s one of the best available for Linux computers and it’s
inkscape, then run Inkscape from a search in the Dash. extremely easy to use. To install it use: sudo apt-get install
scribus and to open, run a search from the Dash.

STEP 6 &OLFNRQWKH2SHQƬOHLFRQRUXVHFile > Open, to STEP 8 Providing the PDF you’re working on doesn’t contain
locate the PDF, then click the Open button. Inkscape any sensitive information, you could use an online
has its limitations. For example it will only import one page at a time resource such as PDF Buddy. Found at [Link], PDF
by default. However, for small PDFs it does an okay job of adding Buddy will allow you to upload a copy of the PDF for editing. It has its
annotations and highlights. limitations but there’s still a lot that can be done with it.

THE ONLINE OPTION

,QWKLVPRGHUQ,QWHUQHWZRUOGZHGRQoWDOZD\VQHHGWRKDYHDQDSSLQVWDOOHGRQWKHV\VWHPWKHUHoVSOHQW\RIFKRLFH
DYDLODEOH{RQOLQH

STEP 1 Online document editing is likely to be something that STEP 2 Another excellent site is CutePDF Editor, at
is done a lot more in the future. We’ve already looked http:[Link]/. It’s remarkably easy to use,
at one such site, PDF Buddy but here are two more. FormSwift is an and allows you to make multiple edits on an existing PDF through its
excellent PDF editor that will allow you to add text, erase and add Page Tools options.
images. Upload your PDF at https: //[Link]/edit-pdf and
follow the instructions.

[Link] 21
 How to Back Up Ubuntu to
an External Drive or NAS
Backing the computer up is one of the most important tasks you should do. Sadly it’s not done
TXLWHDVIUHTXHQWO\DVLWVKRXOGEH8EXQWXSURYLGHVDQHDV\WRXVHEDFNXSWRROWRKHOS\RX
save your work and other documents from disaster.

BACKED UP
8EXQWXXVHVDQDSSFDOOHG'ÄM»'XSWREDFNXSWKHƬOHVDQGVHWWLQJV,WoVHDV\WRXVHDQGFDQEHFRQƬJXUHGIRUEDFNXSVFKHGXOHV
WRGLƪHUHQWORFDWLRQV

STEP 1 Before starting the backup procedure, you need to STEP 3 In the Format Volume window you can opt to give the
check where you’re going to backup to. The destination USB drive a name, ‘Ubuntu Backups’ for example, but
of the backup will need to be big enough to store the data being it’s not necessary. The other options can be left as the default, to
backed up several times over, as you can make monthly, weekly or ensure great compatibility across other operating systems and
even daily backups. We’re using a 32GB USB drive in this instance. platforms. Click the Format button when you’re ready to continue.

STEP 2 An external drive is an excellent backup medium. It’s STEP 4 <RXoOOEHRƪHUHGDƬQDOZDUQLQJEHIRUHWKHDFWXDO

external from the system, in case of damage, and can formatting takes place; this also lists the actions about
be securely locked away if necessary. Plug your USB drive in and check to happen. If you’re happy with the action, then click on the Format
IRUDQ\SUHYLRXVFRQWHQWRXUVKDVWKH8EXQWXVHWXSƬOHVRQLW,I\RX button once more to start the formatting of the USB drive. Ubuntu
don’t need the content, right-click the drive and select Format from will unmount the drive and format it to the options chosen.
the menu.

22 [Link]
STEP 5 When complete Ubuntu will mount the now empty STEP 7 The Storage Location is the destination where the
USB drive. Open the Dash and search for ‘backup’. Déjà EDFNHGXSƬOHVZLOOEHFRSLHGWRWKH86%GULYHLQWKLV
Dup is the safe icon with the title Backups, click to launch the case. Click on the drop-down box Storage Location and change it to
application. Déjà Dup is a fairly simple app to negotiate. You simply the USB drive. Enter a Folder to create on the USB Drive.
tell it what to save, where to save it and when and it will start the
backup process.

STEP 6 The sidebar options are: Folders to Save, this by default STEP 8 Scheduling will automatically create a backup to the
will contain your Home area and thus everything within ORFDWLRQVSHFLƬHGLQWKH6WRUDJH2SWLRQVGHSHQGLQJ
it. To add another location, click the plus symbol at the bottom of the on how you set it up. You can choose daily or weekly and keep the
app. Folders to Ignore is a self-explanatory option. By default it will EDFNXSƬOHVIRUDQRSWLRQDOSHULRGRIWLPH&OLFNEDFNWRWKH2YHUYLHZ
ignore the ~/Downloads folder and Rubbish Bin in your Home area. option and select the Install under No Backup Scheduled, then click
the Back Up Now button.

BACKUP TO A NAS
$1HWZRUN$WWDFKHG6WRUDJH 1$6 GHYLFHLVDJURXSRIKDUGGULYHVFRQƬJXUHGLQDVLQJOHGHYLFHIRUPDVVQHWZRUNVWRUDJH
It’s an ideal backup medium used by home and business users alike.

STEP 1 Click on Storage Location, then Custom Location from STEP 2 Enter the location as: smb:[Link]/Sharename/
within Déjà Dup. In the URL box you’ll need to enter Sharename. Replace the IP address and Sharename
the IP address and Samba share location. Samba is a collection of with your NAS address and shared folders. Click back to Overview and
services and protocols that allow communications between Windows click the Back Up Now button. You’ll be asked for the connection
and Linux computers. In this case, the Windows shares on the NAS authentication. You can opt for anonymous or if you have a NAS
and Ubuntu. username and password enter it here.

[Link] 23
 8VLQJD'LƪHUHQW
Desktop Environment
/LQX[DQGVR8EXQWXLVDQLQFUHGLEO\YHUVDWLOHV\VWHP<RXFDQPRXOGLWWR\RXRZQ
VSHFLƬFDWLRQVWKHPHDQGIHHODQG\RXFDQFRPSOHWHO\FKDQJHWKHZD\DGLVWURORRNVIURPLWV
LQLWLDOVHWXS8EXQWXoV'(LV8QLW\EXWWKHUHDUHRWKHUVWKDWDUHZRUWKWU\LQJRXW

A CHANGE OF ENVIRONMENT
'HVNWRS(QYLURQPHQWVFDQEHLQVWDOOHGDQGXVHGUHPDUNDEO\HDVLO\EXWEHIRUHZHJHWWRWKDWKHUHDUHWHQ'(VZRUWK
LQYHVWLJDWLQJ$GLƪHUHQW'(FDQLQVWDQWO\FKDQJHWKHZD\\RXZRUNDQGSHUVRQDOLVH8EXQWX

GNOME SHELL *120(6KHOOLVWKHRƯFLDOGHYHORSPHQW XFCE Xfce is a lightweight Desktop Environment. It’s fast and
for the GNOME Project. It was once the superb on computers with low resources. Despite its
go-to Desktop Environment for most of the Linux distros available, lightweight approach, Xfce looks great with crisp lines and a clean
including Ubuntu. It has since moved away from its foundation desktop view and feel.
themes and now uses an ultra modern look and feel.

UNITY 8 Obviously an updated version of Unity to the one MATE MATE is a fork of the previous version of the GNOME
WKDWoVLQVWDOOHGE\GHIDXOW8QLW\RƪHUVWKHXVHUD Project, version 2. It’s clean and quite a classic Desktop
new look, with some interesting additions to aid productivity. It’s still Environment that works exceedingly well under Ubuntu. Linux Mint,
developmental and as such won’t work as well as on some computers. another excellent distro, is probably the most famous for using MATE.

24 [Link]
CINNAMON Cinnamon is another Desktop Environment that PANTHEON Pantheon is a relatively new Desktop
XVHV*120(DVDQLQƮXHQFHRIWHQWDNLQJFDUHRI Environment. It’s got a clean, sharp look to it
WKRVHZKRGRQoWZDQW*120(oVIDQF\JODVVHƪHFWVDQGVXFK&LQQDPRQ with a distinct Mac OS X feel. However, it’s not very stable under
is a gorgeous looking DE, it’s quick and works fantastically on Ubuntu. Ubuntu so be careful if you decide to give it a try.

KDE PLASMA KDE Plasma is a futuristic looking Desktop AWESOME Awesome, aside from being a great name for a
(QYLURQPHQW,WORRNVDPD]LQJEXWFDQEH Desktop Environment, is extraordinarily
quite heavy on resources, so be careful if you’re going to try it on a lightweight. It’s designed to work on computers with as little as 64MB
FRPSXWHUZLWKORZVSHFLƬFDWLRQV of memory and it’s highly customisable too.

LXDE Another lightweight Desktop Environment and one that ENLIGHTENMENT Lightweight and looking pretty
focuses on high performance and low system resource impressive are the keywords for
use. It’s an excellent environment and one that works really well on Enlightenment. E17 (Enlightenment 17) is the newest version but
older computers or those with limited system resources. although it works with Ubuntu there are a few bugs that still need to
be ironed out. Otherwise, it’s a good Desktop Environment to test.

[Link] 25
 Installing GNOME Shell
7KHODWHVWYHUVLRQRIWKH*120('HVNWRS(QYLURQPHQWKDVSOHQW\WRRƪHUDQGORRNVVXSHUE
It’s a sleek, modern interface that’s based on user searches and features some of the most
cutting edge Linux developments.

KNOW THE GNOME

*120(LVWKHODWHVWYHUVLRQZHoOOEHLQVWDOOLQJKHUH:KLOHLWZLOOZRUNSHUIHFWO\ZHOOZLWKLQ8EXQWXLWoVQRWDQRƯFLDOO\
supported upgrade path. The recommended method is to use Ubuntu GNOME distro.

STEP 1 Open up a Terminal session and run through the usual STEP 3 The second repo to add is sudo add-apt-
update and upgrade checks: sudo apt-get repository ppa:gnome3-team/gnome3. Again,
update && sudo apt-get upgrade. This will make sure the SUHVVHQWHUDQGFRQƬUPWKHDGGLWLRQRIWKHUHSRLQWRWKH8EXQWX
system is patched correctly and ready for the extra software you’re software sources. Once it’s added, update the software database with
about to install. sudo apt-get update.

STEP 2 You’ll need to add the repos that contain the STEP 4 With everything added and up to date, install GNOME
software for GNOME. There are two of them to add, by entering: sudo apt install gnome gnome-
WKHƬUVWFDQEHDGGHGZLWKsudo add-apt-repository shell<RXoOOEHDVNHGWRFRQƬUPWKHLQVWDOODWLRQRIDQH[WUD0%
ppa:gnome3-team/gnome3-staging. Press Enter and accept or thereabouts, of software for GNOME to work correctly. When
the added repository. you’re ready press ‘y’ to continue with the install.

26 [Link]
STEP 5 After the core software has been downloaded, and STEP 7 <RXFDQVLPSO\ORJRXWIRUWKHFKDQJHVWRWDNHHƪHFW
once the installation process has started, you’ll be but we recommend you run through a proper system
asked which default display manager you want to use. The choices are reboot. This way you’re guaranteed that the software libraries, drivers
GDM and LightDM. Basically, they’re both Display Managers. You can and so on are being used properly. Since you’re still in the Terminal,
switch between the two but for now use LightDM. enter sudo reboot to restart the system.

STEP 6 The software will now continue to unpack and install. It STEP 8 Once you’re back up, and you have the auto-login
may take a little while as there’s quite a lot to get option enabled for your account, you’ll need to click in
through; also the length of time it takes will depend greatly on the the session options and logout. This will bring you to the Ubuntu login
speed of your computer. When done though, you’ll be back to the screen. You should see your username and an Ubuntu logo icon
command prompt. opposite your username. Click the icon and choose GNOME from the
options available. Now, login as normal.

CHANGING THE DISPLAY MANAGER

<RXoOOQRZEHLQD*120('(&OLFN$FWLYLWLHVDQGWKHQLQHGRWVIRUWKHDSSVOLVW7RFKDQJHWKH'0IURP/LJKW'0WR*'0
HQWHUnWHUPLQDOoLQWRWKHVHDUFKER[DWWKHWRSRIWKHVFUHHQ

STEP 1 Click on the Terminal icon and when at the command STEP 2 Enter your password to authenticate the command.
prompt, enter: VXGRGSNJUHFRQ¿JXUHOLJKWGP. You’ll need to press Enter again to <OK> the initial
7KLVZLOOUHUXQWKH'LVSOD\0DQDJHUFRQƬJXUDWLRQWRRODVEHIRUHZKHQ notice. When done, choose GDM3 from the list, press Enter and
ƬUVWLQVWDOOLQJ*120( Logout (click the session options, username, then logout). Log back in
DV*120(IRUWKH*'0RSWLRQ7KHUHoVOLWWOHGLƪHUHQFHEXWLWoVD
great UI to experience.

[Link] 27
 Installing Xfce
Xfce is a modern, lightweight Desktop Environment. It works great on systems where the
memory and graphical capabilities are low, and because of that it’s lightening fast on more
powerful computers.

GETTING HOLD OF XFCE

,I\RXoYHDOUHDG\WULHGWKH*120('(LQWKHSUHYLRXVWXWRULDO\RXFDQHDVLO\VZDSEDFNWR8QLW\E\VHOHFWLQJLWIURPWKHORJLQ
LFRQV ZKHUH\RXIRXQG*120( 

STEP 1 Open up a Terminal session, either within Unity or STEP 3 Enter your password, if asked and when prompted
GNOME, whichever you have installed and running at press ‘y’ to accept the installation of the extra
the time; make sure that system is up to date with sudo apt-get 100MB or so of software that make up the Xfce DE package. When
update && sudo apt-get upgrade. it’s done, reboot the system either via the session options or with
sudo reboot.

STEP 2 There are two ways in which you can install the Xfce STEP 4 As before, if you have the auto-login option turned on
Desktop Environment. It doesn’t matter which you use, for your account you’ll need to use Log Out in the
as both lead to the same display. Often though, one works better session options to get you to the Ubuntu login screen. Click on the
than the other. We’ll start with the method that works better. Simply Ubuntu icon opposite your username, then the ‘Xfce Session’ option.
enter sudo apt-get install xfce4. (QWHU\RXUSDVVZRUGWKHQFKRRVHn8VH'HIDXOW&RQƬJoIURPWKH
LQLWLDOQRWLƬFDWLRQ

28 [Link]
,167$//;)&(ǟ237,21
7KH;IFH'HVNWRS(QYLURQPHQWVKRXOGQRZEHXSDQGUXQQLQJDQGORRNLQJJRRGWRR,IWKHSUHYLRXVRSWLRQZDVXQVXFFHVVIXO
try this one instead.

STEP 1 Most users will be happy with the previous Xfce STEP 4 In addition to the Xfce DE you can also install a Goodies
installation option. As with most software, however, package. The Xfce Goodies Project includes additional
things can go awry. If there are problems, drop back to Unity and software and artwork. It’s certainly worth an extra install on top of
open a Terminal session. Check for updates, just in case, then enter: Xfce and it doesn’t impact the lightweight aspect or performance of
sudo apt-get install xubuntu-desktop. the DE. Open a Terminal, click in the top left and enter ‘terminal’. Click
Terminal Emulator.

STEP 2 Enter your password and accept the extra 260MB of STEP 5 From within the Terminal enter: sudo apt-get
added software for the Xfce DE packages. There’s install xfce4-goodies. Enter your password and
more data needed because in this instance you’re using the Xubuntu FRQƬUPWKHH[WUDVRIWZDUHWREHLQVWDOOHG7KHUHVKRXOGQoWEHDQ\
desktop packages as opposed to the raw, if you will, Xfce packages. need to reboot but some users have experienced better integration
Xubuntu, by the way, is its own distro built around Xfce. by doing so.

STEP 3 When the installation is complete, reboot the STEP 6 You can right-click the desktop and choose Desktop
computer again, either from the session options or Settings for new wallpaper; right-click the panel at the
with sudo reboot from the Terminal. After rebooting, and logging very top of the screen then: Panel > Add New Items to add new
out for auto-login users, choose ‘Xubuntu Session’ from the available plugins to the top panel. In short, play around and see what you can
RSWLRQVQRWLFHKRZGLƪHUHQWWKHORJLQPDQDJHUORRNVQRZ do with it.

[Link] 29
 Installing KDE Plasma
.'(3ODVPD'HVNWRS(QYLURQPHQWLVWKHFXWWLQJHGJHRI/LQX[GHYHORSPHQW,WoVLQFUHGLEO\
SRZHUIXOORRNVDPD]LQJDQGUXQVZHOOHYHQRQORZHUHQGFRPSXWHUV.'(3ODVPDXVHGWREH
TXLWHWKHUHVRXUFHKRJWKHVHGD\V\RXoOOƬQGLWVQDSS\DQGDƮXLG8,WRZRUNZLWK

2Ǖ.'(72*2
To install KDE Plasma on Ubuntu, we’ll be using the Kubuntu spin. Kubuntu is, as the name suggests, Ubuntu built with KDE. It’s
generally recommended to use Kubuntu exclusively but this install will work well enough.

STEP 1 As you’ve done before, start the process by making STEP 3 As with the GNOME DE installation, mid-way through
sure the system is up to date with sudo apt-get the KDE Plasma install you’ll be asked which Display
update && sudo apt-get upgrade. Manager you want to use. In most cases the LightDM option is the
most compatible with Ubuntu, multi-Des, set ups.

STEP 2 <RXFDQJHW.'(3ODVPDRUUDWKHUWKHƬOHVQHHGHGWR STEP 4 After you’ve picked the DM you want to use, press
install Kubuntu, by entering: sudo apt-get install Enter and the installation will continue. It may take a
kubuntu-desktop. You’ll need to enter your password to little while, depending on the speed of your system but when it’s
authenticate the action and you’ll need to press ‘y’ to accept the done they recommend that you reboot the computer via the session
VRPHZKDWKHIW\VL]HG0%RISDFNDJHVWREHLQVWDOOHG options or with sudo reboot.

30 [Link]
USING KDE
.'(LVDYHU\GLƪHUHQWORRNDQGIHHOWRWKDWRI*120(;IFHRU8QLW\GXHWRLWVFXWWLQJHGJHGHVLJQ7RWKDWHQGLWoVZRUWK
VKDULQJDIHZVWHSVORRNLQJDWKRZLWDOOZRUNV

STEP 1 When the computer has rebooted, as with the other STEP 4 The available Widgets are a great addition to KDE.
installed DEs we’ve looked at, those users who They cover everything from clocks to launchers, media
auto-login will need to choose Log Out from the session options. In controls and calendars. A widget can be dragged from the available
the main Ubuntu login page, click on the Unity icon (opposite your collection and onto the desktop. You can then click within the widget
username) and choose Plasma from the available options. Enter your WRFRQƬJXUHDVHWWLQJVXFKDVORFDWLRQIRUDZHDWKHUZLGJHW
password and KDE will load up.

STEP 2 $WƬUVW.'(PD\DSSHDUDOLWWOHGDXQWLQJ7KHDQDWRP\
of the desktop is made up of a bottom panel, where
\RXoOOƬQG\RXUDSSVƬOHPDQDJHUODVWXVHGFRPPDQGVDSSVDQG
logout/shutdown options.
STEP 5 7KHDSSVZLWKLQ.'(DUHVOLJKWO\GLƪHUHQWIURPZKDW
\RXoUHXVHGWRLQ8QLW\7KHƬOHPDQDJHUIRUH[DPSOH
LVFDOOHG'ROSKLQLQ.'(DQGRƪHUVWKHXVHUDVHOHFWLRQRIGLƪHUHQW
views. It is essentially the same, looking at the same system layout but
WKHRSWLRQVZLWKLQDUHGLƪHUHQW

STEP 3 The next element to the desktop is the three STEP 6 You also get a few extras in KDE that you don’t have in
KRUL]RQWDOEDUPHQXORFDWHGLQWKHWRSOHIWRIWKH GNOME or Unity. For example, in Desktop Settings you
screen. This section shows the desktop settings and allows you to add can open the Plasma online portal to get new wallpapers. As a note,
Widgets, lock the current session and log out. KDE doesn’t behave well within a VirtualBox set up. If you want to
test it, it’s best to use it on an actual computer

[Link] 31
 Installing LXDE
LXDE stands for Lightweight X11 Desktop Environment. As the name suggests it’s compact
enough for computers with low system resources to use; and it’s blisteringly fast on more
powerful computers.

LXDE OR LXQT?
/;'(LVWKHGHIDXOWGHVNWRSIRU/XEXQWXDQGPDQ\RWKHUGLVWURV+RZHYHU/;4WLVWKHODWHVWYHUVLRQ /LJKWZHLJKW47'HVNWRS
(QYLURQPHQW 6RZHKDYHWZRRSWLRQVDYDLODEOHWRWHVWWKLV'(ZLWK

STEP 1 Let’s start by installing the original LXDE option, using STEP 3 :KHQWKHLQVWDOODWLRQKDVƬQLVKHG\RXoOOEHEDFNDWWKH
the Lubuntu spin as the main packages. As before, command prompt; and again, whilst you can simply log
start with a system update check with sudo apt-get update && out to use the new DE, it’s recommended to reboot the system.
sudo apt-get upgrade. Either use the session options to Log Out or enter sudo reboot into
the Terminal.

STEP 2 Since we’re going to be using Lubuntu’s packages, as STEP 4 Those who auto-login will need to Log Out from the
you may have already guessed, Lubuntu is Ubuntu built session options. When at the Ubuntu login screen
with the LXDE as the DM, you need to enter the following into the choose LXDE from the available DEs located at the top of the screen,
Terminal: sudo apt-get install lubuntu-desktop. Click ‘y’ to as Ubuntu is now using the Lubuntu DM. LXDE is a minimalist
accept the 370MB of extra packages needed for the installation. desktop, you can access your apps from the panel at the bottom
WRJHWKHUZLWKDƬOHPDQDJHU

32 [Link]
INSTALLING LXQT
7KHVHFRQGRSWLRQ\RXKDYHLVWRLQVWDOODQGXVHWKHODWHVWYHUVLRQRI/;'(/;4W<RXoOOQRWLFHDELJGLƪHUHQFHZLWK/;4W
ZLWKWKHZD\LWORRNVDQGIHHOV

STEP 1 To make sure the installation goes without any STEP 4 The LXQt desktop is remarkably sparse to begin with.
problems, over the top of a current Ubuntu install, we There’s a panel at the bottom where you can get to
need to install OpenBox, a window manager that LXQt uses. Check \RXULQVWDOOHGDSSVDORQJZLWKWKHƬOHPDQDJHUDQGDWWKHRWKHUHQG
for any system updates, then enter: sudo apt-get install RIWKHSDQHO\RXoOOƬQGWKHYROXPHFRQWUROVDQGDQ\QRWLƬFDWLRQV
openbox obconf.

STEP 2 When the installation is complete run: sudo apt-get STEP 5 You can also right-click the bottom panel and include
install lxqt and accept the extra packages with ‘y’. numerous Widgets, using the Manage Widgets option
After the installation, reboot the system from the session options or from the menu. Then, you can add apps to a Quick Launch area,
from the Terminal with sudo reboot. where there are four Workspaces available by default.

STEP 3 If you’re using an auto-login option for your user STEP 6 7KHGHIDXOWƬOHPDQDJHUIRU/;4WLV3&0DQ)0,WoVD
account, you’ll need to Log Out from the session UREXVWEXWYHU\VLPSOHWRXVHƬOHPDQDJHUWKDWZLOO
options. Since you’re not using the Lubuntu packages the Ubuntu JLYH\RXDFFHVVWRDOOWKHQHFHVVDU\ƬOHVDQGIROGHUORFDWLRQV,WPD\
login screen hasn’t changed in appearance. Click on the Ubuntu icon look simple but it’s extremely fast.
opposite your username and choose LXQt Desktop from the options.

[Link] 33
 Installing Cinnamon
&LQQDPRQLVDQHOHJDQW'HVNWRS(QYLURQPHQWLQLWLDOO\GHYHORSHGDVDIRUNIURP*120(6KHOO
It’s mostly used as the default DE for the popular Linux Mint (Cinnamon Edition) and has, since
its release, been greatly improved by the community.

A TOUCH OF CINNAMON
&LQQDPRQLVWKHODWHVWHGLWLRQDQGZLWKLWFRPHVDZHDOWKRIQHZDQGXSGDWHGIHDWXUHV,WUHDOO\LVDVXSHUE'HVNWRS
Environment, one that looks especially good on a modern system.

STEP 1 $V\RXDUHDOUHDG\QRGRXEWDZDUHWKHƬUVWWKLQJZH STEP 3 With the repo added, run: sudo apt-get update to
need to do is check that the core system is up to date refresh the sources, then enter: sudo apt-get
with: sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade. install cinnamon. There will be around 200MB of data to
download and install, so press ‘y’ when you’re ready. Once everything
is installed, reboot the system via the session options or with:
sudo reboot.

STEP 2 The easiest, and more error-free method, of installing STEP 4 If you need to Log Out do so now. At the Ubuntu login
&LQQDPRQ'(RQWRDQH[LVWLQJ8EXQWXVHWXSLVWRƬUVW screen click on the icon opposite your username and
add the appropriate repo: sudo add-apt-repository select Cinammon. The Software Rendering version doesn’t use the
ppa:embrosyn/cinnamon. The repo notes are worth reading, as computer’s graphics card to display the desktop.
WKH\UHIHUWRDQHZ%OXHWRRWKFRQƬJXUDWLRQWRRO3UHVV(QWHUWRDGG
the repository to the software sources.

34 [Link]
USING CINNAMON DE
&LQQDPRQORRNVGLƪHUHQWDQGEHKDYHVGLƪHUHQWO\WR8QLW\7KHUHDUHDQXPEHURIIHDWXUHVZRUWKORRNLQJLQWRZLWKWKLVJUHDW
'(DQGRQFH\RXoYHJRWWKHKDQJRIWKHP\RXoOOƬQG&LQQDPRQZRUNVDFKDUP

STEP 1 7KHƬUVWWKLQJ\RXoOOQRWLFHLVDODFNRIGHVNWRS STEP 4 Cinnamon also uses Applets; these can be added from
wallpaper; it’s a plain black background but we can the Menu button. Applets are added to the panel at the
change that by adding a new wallpaper. The issue appears to be with bottom of the desktop and, like the Desklets, can display a variety of
adding Cinnamon to an Ubuntu setup. It’s not a big problem and the information. More are available from online sources via the Applets app.
UHVWRIWKHGHVNWRSZRUNVƬQH

STEP 2 You can access all your apps and system settings from STEP 5 1HPRLVWKHƬOHPDQDJHUIRU&LQQDPRQ,WoVDFOHDQDQG
the panel at the bottom of the screen. The Menu HDV\WRXVHƬOHPDQDJHUZKHUH\RXFDQJHWWRDOOWKH
button in the corner, works in the same way as the Windows Start relevant locations within the system, as well as external network
EXWWRQ:LWKLWRSHQ\RXFDQVHDUFKIRUDSSVDQGƬOHVORJRXW resources. You can add more tabs (called Extra Panes in Nemo) and
shutdown and access the system. alter the view of the main window and sidebar.

STEP 3 Right-clicking the desktop will allow you to create new STEP 6 The System Settings app, accessed from the Menu >
folders, change the settings and Add Desklets. A 3UHIHUHQFHVZLOODOORZ\RXWRFRQƬJXUH&LQQDPRQDV
Cinnamon Desklet is a widget that provides the user with information, ZHOODVWKH'HVNOHWV$SSOHWV1RWLƬFDWLRQV(ƪHFWV7KHPHVDQGRWKHU
such as weather reports, CPU usage or something like a quote of the unique areas of the Desktop Environment.
day. Within the app, there is scope to add more Desklets from various
online sources.

[Link] 35
 Installing MATE
:KHQ*120(ZDVODXQFKHGPDQ\XVHUVSUHIHUUHGWKHVLPSOHFOHDQOLQHVORRNDQGIHHORI
WKHSUHYLRXV*120($VDUHVXOW0$7(EHFDPHDIRUNRIWKH*120(SURMHFWWU\LQJWR
NHHSWRWKHRULJLQDOORRNDQGIHHOZKLOHVWLOORƪHULQJWKHODWHVWGHYHORSPHQWV

BEST MATE
7KHHDVLHVWZD\WRLQVWDOO0$7(LVE\XVLQJWKH8EXQWX0$7(VSLQEXLOG7KHUHoVDQ,62DYDLODEOHEXWIRU\RXZLWKDQ8EXQWXEXLOG
already set up, it can be installed with a single command.

STEP 1 7KHRƯFLDO8EXQWX0$7(UHOHDVHLVDOUHDG\LQWKH STEP 3 When the installation is done, reboot the system. As
Ubuntu software sources. As always when adding a before, make sure you’re logged out and at the Ubuntu
QHZHOHPHQWƬUVWFKHFNWKDWWKHV\VWHPLVXSWRGDWHZLWKsudo login screen. Choose MATE from the available DEs and enter your
apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade. password to log back into Ubuntu.

STEP 2 With the system up to date, enter: sudo apt-get STEP 4 Ubuntu MATE should now be displayed, along with the
install ubuntu-mate-core ubuntu-mate- default wallpaper, icon set and theme. You can access
desktop (note the space between the ubuntu-mate-core and WKHV\VWHPƬOHVDQGDSSVIURPWKHSDQHODORQJWKHWRSRIWKHVFUHHQ
ubuntu-mate-desktop options). There’ll be around 850MB of extra and logout, restart or shutdown from either the System menu or the
packages to download and install, so be prepared in case your system QRWLƬFDWLRQDUHDLQWKHWRSULJKWFRUQHU
is a little slower than average.

36 [Link]
HELLO, MATE
MATE is a great Desktop Environment. It’s quick and easy to use, while still looking modern and quite sleek. Here are some
KLJKOLJKWVWRORRNRXWIRU

STEP 1 The top panel has three main menus: Applications, STEP 4 Found in System > Administration, the Software
Places and System. These titles do speak for Boutique is a portal to a selected collection of
themselves but just to note, Places shortcuts you to areas within the excellent Ubuntu MATE apps. There are thousands of titles available,
8EXQWXƬOHV\VWHPDQGZLOOHYHQWXDOO\GLVSOD\WKHPRVWUHFHQWO\ covering everything from Education to Gaming and beyond.
used documents.

STEP 2 Of course, you can change the default background.

Right-click the desktop, then Change Desktop
Background, to load up a selection of wallpapers. You can even You can also add extra elements to the Ubuntu MATE
change the Themes, Fonts and the look of the Interface from here.
STEP 5
panel, much in the same way as Cinnamon’s Applets.
Right-click the top panel followed by Add to Panel and choose from
the list of available items to include.

STEP3 The panel at the bottom of the screen is where any STEP 6 Finally, if you go to System > Welcome there will be
opened apps are displayed; they’ll remain there until a presentation detailing the features of Ubuntu
closed. To the right, in the corner, is the Workspace Switcher: four MATE. From here you can visit the Ubuntu MATE community, chat
boxes representing the available virtual desktops. rooms and look at the Software Boutique, as well as view other
areas of the project.

[Link] 37
 How to Make Ubuntu Look
Like Windows
7KHUHoVDQROGVD\LQJLQWKH/LQX[FRPPXQLW\n:LQGRZVLV:LQGRZV/LQX[LV/LQX[o,WEDVLFDOO\
means that both systems have their advantages and disadvantages, and shouldn’t really be
FRPSDUHG+RZHYHUZKDWLI\RXZDQWHGWRPDNH8EXQWXORRNOLNH:LQGRZV"

WINDOWS THEMES
<RXFDQVSHQGTXLWHDORWRIWLPHWZHDNLQJWKH8EXQWXGHVNWRSVRWKDWLWDSHVWKHGHVNWRSRIDQRWKHURSHUDWLQJV\VWHP7KHUH
are, however, easier ways.

STEP 1 First you need to check for any system updates, as STEP 3 Once you’re in the ~/Downloads folder, enter: wget
you’re going to be installing new software and https: [Link]/B00merang-Project/
themes. Drop into a Terminal and enter: sudo apt-get update TransPack/archive/[Link]7KHƬOHPDVWHU]LSZLOOEH
&& sudo apt-get upgrade. Enter your password and accept any downloaded from the source to the root of the ~/Downloads folder.
XSJUDGHQRWLƬFDWLRQV

STEP 2 You’re going to be using a Windows Transformation STEP 4 <RXQRZQHHGWRXQ]LSWKHFRQWHQWVRIWKHPDVWHU]LS

Pack in this instance, as developed by the B00merang ƬOHZHFDQGRWKDWZLWKunzip [Link]. This will
Project (http:[Link]/). The pack will auto-install the H[WUDFWWKHIROGHU7UDQV3DFNPDVWHUIURPWKHPDVWHU]LSƬOHDVD
necessary theme, wallpapers, icons and so on, saving us a lot of work. sub-folder within ~/Downloads.
Start by entering the ~/Downloads folder with cd Downloads/.

38 [Link]
STEP 5 Enter the newly extracted TransPack-master folder STEP 7 7KHFKPRGFRPPDQGFKDQJHVWKHSHUPLVVLRQVRIƬOHV
with cd TransPack-master/; remember, Ubuntu is DQGIROGHUV7KHVFULSWVDUHVLPSO\WH[WƬOHVFRQWDLQLQJ
FDVHVHQVLWLYHVRXVHWKH7DENH\DXWRFRPSOHWHWRƬOOLQWKH a programming language, so in order to run, their permissions need
TransPack part of the command. to altered; in this case: +x adding the eXecutable permission.

STEP 6 If you run ls from within the TransPack-master folder, STEP 8 The last step in the process is running the [Link]
\RXoOOQRWLFHVHYHUDOƬOHVDQGDVLQJOHIROGHU7KHƬOHV script. We can do this by entering: ./[Link].
you’re interested in are [Link] and [Link]. These are scripts The script will now execute the steps in order to install the theme
that will automate the Windows theme installation process; before pack. You’ll need to enter your password, and you’ll have a choice of
running them, they need to be marked as executable. This can be either Light or Dark themes. For now, enter ‘1’ for the Light
done with: chmod +x [Link] [Link]. Windows 10 theme.

WELCOME TO WINDOWS 10, ALMOST

The theme will be automatically applied, with the new desktop wallpaper, icons and everything else needed to make Ubuntu
look like Windows 10.

STEP 1 2QFHWKHVFULSWKDVƬQLVKHGHQWHUexit to leave the STEP 2 A Windows 10 theme isn’t for everyone and if you tire
Terminal session. As you can see, the theme is of it after a while, you can easily uninstall it by entering
H[WUHPHO\DFFXUDWH7KHRQO\REYLRXVGLƪHUHQFHVDUHWKHIDFWWKDWWKH the TransPack-master folder and running the command: ./
Windows Start button is the Dash and the added icons along the top [Link]. Enter your password and the script will remove the
Menu Bar of the desktop. theme pack. However, you’ll need to move the Launcher back to the
side and re-enable your wallpaper.

[Link] 39
 How to Make Ubuntu
Look Like a Mac Desktop
Mac owners are envied the world over for having one of the best looking desktop operating
systems ever. Every aspect of the Mac desktop environment is developed to near perfection,
VRLWoVKDUGO\VXUSULVLQJ8EXQWXXVHUVZDQWVRPHWKLQJVLPLODU

MACBUNTU
Turning your Ubuntu setup into a Mac-a-like computer is surprisingly easy but there’s plenty to include. Here we’ll just look at
getting the base Macbuntu theme installed.

STEP 1 First you need to check for updates: sudo apt-get STEP 3 With the NoobsLab repo added you can start to get
update && sudo apt-get upgrade. When that’s hold of the Macbuntu themes, icons and cursors. Start
GRQH\RXQHHGWRJRWRWKHa3LFWXUHVIROGHUDQGGRZQORDGD]LSSHG by entering: sudo apt-get install macbuntu-os-icons-
ƬOHFRQWDLQLQJWKH0DFEXQWXZDOOSDSHUVcd Pictures/ && wget lts-v8, then: sudo apt-get install macbuntu-os-ithemes-
http:[Link]/data/Mac/MacBuntu-Wallpapers. lts-v8. Enter ‘y’ to accept the additional packages.
zip:KHQWKH]LSƬOHLVGRZQORDGHGH[WUDFWWKHFRQWHQWZLWK
unzip [Link].

STEP 2 Leave the ~/Pictures folder, cd ~. From here on you’ll STEP 4 You’ll also need the Unity Tweak Tool. If you haven’t
be using the NoobsLab Macbuntu repositories, so already installed it, do so by either using the Ubuntu
enter the following: sudo add-apt-repository ppa:noobslab/ Software portal or by entering into the Terminal: sudo apt-get
macbuntu && sudo apt-get update. install unity-tweak-tool. You’ll be using this to choose the
Mac-based themes.

40 [Link]
STEP 5 Click on the Dash and enter ‘Unity Tweak’, then click on STEP 8 With Plank open, hold Ctrl and right-click Plank. Click
the Unity Tweak Tool icon. With the Unity Tweak Tool Preferences from the menu and use the drop-down
launched, click on the Theme icon under the Appearance section. In box next to Theme to choose ‘MB-OSXLion’. If you want you can add
the Theme tab, click on ‘Macbuntu-unity’. In the Icons tab click some Mac fonts with: wget -O [Link] http:drive.
‘Macbuntu-OS’. In the Cursor tab click ‘Mac-cursors’. [Link]/data/Mac/[Link] && sudo unzip
[Link] -d /usr/share/fonts; rm mac-fonts.
zip && sudo fc-cache -f -v. Add the fonts using the Unity
Tweak Tool.

STEP 6 As you can see, Ubuntu is now looking more Mac-like. STEP 9 7RIXOO\HQMR\WKHEHQHƬWRIWKH0DFORRNFOLFNRQ
However, you can further improve its Mac looks by System Settings > Appearance > Behaviour
adding a couple of new apps. Enter: sudo apt-get install and auto-hide the Launcher. Click the Look tab and under the
slingscold into the Terminal; this is an alternative to Launchpad. Wallpapers section click the plus symbol and point it at one of the
When that’s installed, enter: sudo apt-get install albert, an Macbuntu wallpapers you extracted in the ~/Pictures folder.
alternative to Mac Spotlight.

STEP 7 One of the Mac’s great features is the quick launch STEP 10 Your Ubuntu setup should now be looking pretty
dock at the bottom of the screen. Ubuntu has similar in similar to that of a Mac desktop. You can drag and
Plank. To install it use: sudo apt-get install plank. You now drop apps to the Plank launcher and both Albert and Slingscold
need to install a Mac theme to the Plank, by entering: sudo apt-get should work well. There’s plenty more to add for a Mac-like
install macbuntu-os-plank-theme-lts-v8. Open the Dash experience but we’ll leave that for you to discover
and search for ‘plank’ and click the icon.

[Link] 41
 Fun Things to do in the
Terminal
'HVSLWHWKHVHULRXVQHVVRIDQRSHUDWLQJV\VWHPWKH/LQX[FRPPXQLW\DQGWKHUHIRUH8EXQWX
WRRDUHQoWVWUDQJHUVWRDELWRIIXQ7KHGHYHORSHUVRYHUWKH\HDUVKDYHFUHDWHGDQGLQVHUWHG
DOOPDQQHURIIXQDQGRGGHOHPHQWVLQWRWKH7HUPLQDO

TERMINAL FUN
<RXoOOEHZRUNLQJH[FOXVLYHO\LQWKH7HUPLQDOIRUWKHVHQH[WWZRVHFWLRQVVRRSHQWKH7HUPLQDOXSDQGVWDUWZDUPLQJ\RXUƬQJHUV
$IWHUDOODOOZRUNDQGQRSOD\fDVWKHVD\LQJJRHV

STEP 1 7KHƬUVWFRPPDQGZHoUHJRLQJWRXVHLVsl, it’s not STEP 3 If you’ve ever fancied having the computer read a
installed by default so enter: sudo apt-get random fortune out to you, then you’re in luck. Enter:
install sl. The command can be run with sl and when executed sudo apt-get install fortune, when it’s installed enter the
will display a Steam Locomotive travelling across the screen (hence command: fortune. Every time you enter the command, you’ll get a
‘sl’). Entering LS, note the upper case, also works. fortune, quote or just a thought for the day.

STEP 2 )DQVRI6WDU:DUVHYHQJHWDƬ[ZKHQLWFRPHVWRWKH STEP 4 The revFRPPDQGLVFHUWDLQO\LQWHUHVWLQJDQGDWƬUVW

Terminal. By linking to a remote server via the telnet quite a useless addition to the OS. However, it can be
command, you can watch Episode IV: A New Hope being played out, used to create some really unbreakable passwords. Enter: rev, now
in ASCII. To view this spectacle, enter: telnet towel. type some text, when you press Enter next, everything you typed in
[Link]. will be reversed. Press Ctrl+C to exit.

42 [Link]
STEP 5 If you’re stuck trying to work out all the possible STEP 8 If you really want to expand the whole cow thing, then
factors for a particular number, simply enter factor pipe the fortune command through it, with: fortune
followed by the number. For example, factor 7GRHVQoWRƪHUPXFK | cowsay; and for the graphical cow equivalent: fortune |
output, whereas factor 60 displays more. xcowsay. Plus, there’s always cowthink. Try: cowthink ...This
book is awesome.

STEP 6 Enter: sudo apt-get install cowsay. When the

LQVWDOODWLRQKDVƬQLVKHGW\SHLQcowsay followed by
any text you want, such as: cowsay Ubuntu is an ace OS!. In
fact, you can even output the ls command through the cow, by
entering: ls | cowsay.
STEP 9 7KHFRPPDQGWRLOHWGRHVQoWLQVSLUHPXFKFRQƬGHQFH
+RZHYHULWoVQRWDVEDGDVLWƬUVWVRXQGV6WDUWE\
installing it with: sudo apt-get install toilet. Then when
installed, type something along the lines of: toilet David.

STEP 7 To further the cow element, there’s even a graphical, STEP 10 Expanding the toilet command, you can generate
i.e. non-Terminal, cow available. Install it with: sudo some decent looking graphics through it. For
apt-get install xcowsay, then when it’s installed enter example, try this: toilet -f mono12 -F metal David. You can
something similar to cowsay, such as: xcowsay Ubuntu is an enter toilet --help, for a list of the command line arguments.
ace OS!.

[Link] 43
 More Fun Things to do in
the Terminal
,IWKHSUHYLRXVOLVWRIIXQWKLQJVWRGRLQWKH7HUPLQDOKDV\RXZDQWLQJPRUH\RXoUHLQOXFN
We’ve put together another batch of some useful, some not so useful, commands for you to
try out.

MORE FUN, YAY

6LQFHWKH7HUPLQDOVHVVLRQLVDOUHDG\RSHQDQG\RXUNH\ERDUGGLJLWVDUHQLFHO\ZDUPHGXSKHUHDUHDQRWKHUWZRSDJHVRI
Terminal nonsense.

STEP 1 Remember the old ZX Spectrum days of computing, STEP 3 Having a little white cat chase your mouse pointer
when you could type in 10 print “Hello”, 20 goto 10 around the desktop may sound like a terrible waste of
and Hello would list down the screen? Well, in Ubuntu you can do the time. Oddly though, it isn’t. Enter: sudo apt-get install oneko,
same. Simply enter yes followed by some text, i.e. yes Ubuntu is then type oneko to have the cat appear. Move your cursor around the
ace. It’ll keep going until you press Ctrl+C. screen and the cat will chase it. Use Ctrl+C to exit the action.

STEP 2 The Matirx was one of the most graphically copied STEP 4 This entry is a little more serious than the previous. It’s
ƬOPVHYHUUHOHDVHGWKHUHoVHYHQDYHUVLRQRIWKH0DWUL[ called the Fork Bomb and what it does basically, is
code in Ubuntu. Install it with: sudo apt-get install cmatrix. continually replicate itself until it has used up all the available system
When it’s done enter: cmatrix and follow the white rabbit, Neo. resources, thus causing your computer to crash. You don’t have to try
Unlike the real Matrix though, you can press Ctrl+C to exit. it but it’s interesting nonetheless. Simply enter :(){ :|:& }: and
be prepared to reboot.

44 [Link]
STEP 5 Stringing several commands and piping them through STEP 8 Used as a music demo from the old Amiga and DOS
other commands is what makes scripting such a days, the bb command reminds us of getting hold of
powerful element to an OS. Using the while command, for example, WKUHHDQGDKDOILQFKƮRSSLHVFUDPPHGZLWKDOOPDQQHURIGHPRVFHQH
together with toilet, can yield some impressive results. Enter: while goodies. Use: sudo apt-get install bb, then run bb. Follow the
true; do echo “$(date ‘+%D %T’ | toilet -f term -F on-screen instruction and turn up your volume.
border --metal)”; sleep 1; done.

STEP 6 7DONLQJFRPSXWHUVZHUHWKHFUD]HRIWKHVHQWHU STEP 9 This particular entry is in two parts. First you need to
sudo apt-get install espeak and make sure get hold of the right packages: sudo apt-get
\RXUYROXPHLVWXUQHGXS:KHQWKHLQVWDOODWLRQLVƬQLVKHGXVH install libcurses-perl. When that’s done enter: cd
espeak “Hello, this is Ubuntu” to have the computer repeat Downloads/ && wget http:[Link]/CPAN/
the text inside the quotes to you. authors/id/K/KB/KBAUCOM/[Link] &&
tar -xf [Link] && cd Term-
Animation-2.4/. Then: SHUO0DNH¿OH3/ PDNH PDNH
test && sudo make install.

STEP 7 $URDULQJ$6&,,ƬUHLVQoWWKHPRVWXVHIXOFRPPDQGWR STEP 10 With that little lot done, onto the next. Enter: cd ..
have at your disposal, but it’s fun. Install it with: sudo && wget http:[Link]/projects/
apt-get install libaa-bin, then when installed use: DD¿UH. It’s asciiquarium/[Link] && tar -xf
not exactly warming but you get the idea. [Link] && cd asciiquarium_1.1/ && chmod
+x asciiquarium. Providing all went well, enter ./asciiquarium
and enjoy your very own ASCII-based aquarium.

[Link] 45
 Fine Tune Ubuntu
8EXQWXLVDWULPDQGTXLFNRSHUDWLQJV\VWHPFRPSDUHGWR:LQGRZVEXWLWWRRFDQEH
WZHDNHGWRHNHDOLWWOHPRUHSHUIRUPDQFHIURPLW/LNHPRVWRSHUDWLQJV\VWHPV8EXQWX
DOVRGHJUDGHVVOLJKWO\RYHUWLPH7RNHHS8EXQWXLQWLSWRSFRQGLWLRQIROORZWKHVHVWHSV

TWEAKING UBUNTU
There are numerous tweaks you can apply to Ubuntu to help speed it up. Some will work a treat, others won’t. It depends on your
V\VWHPDQGKRZLWSHUIRUPVWREHJLQZLWK

STEP 1 Ubuntu uses a partition called Swap that it writes STEP 3 Although Unity looks great, it can take its toll on a
virtual memory data to. If your computer has less than system that’s not quite up to scratch. That being the
4GB of RAM, then this step will work. Open a Terminal and enter: FDVHWKH'YLVXDOHƪHFWVFDQEHHOLPLQDWHGVLPSO\E\XVLQJDQRWKHU
sudo gedit /etc/[Link]; this will launch Gedit. Scroll Desktop Environment, such as LXDE or Xfce. Consider using these DEs
down to the bottom of the page adding: # Decrease swapiness, or installing Xubuntu or Lubuntu.
then under that: [Link]=10. Save, exit and reboot.

STEP 4 Windows users know that limiting the start up

applications impacts the computer start times. It’s the
same for Ubuntu too. You can’t limit the startup apps by default, so
STEP 2 Changing the swappiness to 10 reduces the swap
enter: cd /etc/xdg/autostart/ followed by: sudo sed --in-
partition writing overhead. Another tip involving the
SODFHµV1R'LVSOD\ WUXH1R'LVSOD\ IDOVHJ¶ GHVNWRS.
RAM is to reduce the inode cache. Doing so will free up memory for
In the Dash search for ‘Startup Applications’, click the icon. Untick
other applications. As before, enter: sudo gedit /etc/sysctl.
those you don’t want to load but be careful.
conf. Then at the bottom add: # Improve cache management and
under that: vm.vfs_cache_pressure=50. Save, exit and reboot.

46 [Link]
STEP 5 If your computer has more than 4GB RAM, you can STEP 8 There are times when an app in Ubuntu can fail, crash
PRYHWKHWPS WHPSRUDU\ƬOHV WRDYLUWXDO5$0DUHD and hang up the system, or at least a good chunk of
Start by entering: sudo cp -v /usr/share/systemd/[Link] it. You’ve already looked at the kill command from the Terminal,
/etc/systemd/system/, then enter: sudo systemctl enable identifyed the rouge app and used the PID to ‘kill’ it. However,
[Link]. Reboot the system and see if it improves the overall there’s also the xkill command. Type xkill and click on the app
performance; remember though, only if you have more than 4GB of that’s crashed.
RAM (memory).

STEP 6 ,IIRUVRPHUHDVRQPRYLQJWKHWHPSRUDU\ƬOHVWRD STEP 9 Open the Dash, searching for ‘disk’. Click on the Disks
virtual RAM area has a negative impact on your Ubuntu icon (the one with the hard drive and spanner), then
setup, and there are times when it can despite having ample RAM FOLFNWKHWKUHHKRUL]RQWDOEDUVLQWKHXSSHUULJKW*RWR'ULYH6HWWLQJV
installed, you can easily undo everything by entering: sudo rm -v / then the Write Cache tab. Slide the tab to On for ‘Enable Write Cache’.
etc/systemd/system/[Link]. Doing so has its advantages but a loss in power can lose data.

STEP 7 The app called preload, is a read-ahead tool that will STEP 10 Updating your hardware has an immense impact on
run in the background and intelligently cache the most the performance of Ubuntu. Using an SSD instead of a
used applications, making them start faster. To install it, enter: sudo WUDGLWLRQDOKDUGGULYHVSHHGVXSWKHHQWLUHV\VWHPVLJQLƬFDQWO\/LNHZLVH
apt-get install preload and when the app is installed execute installing more memory is a positive enhancement, as is using a
it with: sudo preload. To see what it’s caching, reboot Ubuntu and dedicated graphics card. Just remember to visit the Additional Drivers
use: sudo less /var/lib/preload/[Link]. section in Software and Updates for any new hardware drivers.

[Link] 47
 Maintenance and
Troubleshooting
6RPHWLPHV8EXQWXZLOOPLVEHKDYHDQGWKLQJVZRQoWJRDFFRUGLQJWRSODQ7KDQNIXOO\PRVW
SUREOHPVHQFRXQWHUHGLQ8EXQWXDUHHDVLO\UHPHGLHG7KDQNVWRWKHKDUGZRUNIURPWKH
FRPPXQLW\WKHUHoVDZHDOWKRIGRFXPHQWDWLRQDYDLODEOHWRƬ[QHDUO\DOOLVVXHV

RESOLVING PROBLEMS
Key to resolving any issue in computing is to work through the problem slowly and methodically. With luck, these steps will help
you on the way to troubleshooting the issue.

STEP 1 A forgotten password is a pain, as it’s usually when you STEP 3 Often you’ll come across problems when trying to
need to get to the computer that it slips your mind. To install an app; usually when you’re trying to reinstall an
reset your password, enter recovery mode by booting the computer app. This is often down to the software packages still lingering in the
and pressing Shift to bring up the Ubuntu boot menu. Choose: V\VWHPZKLFKFDQFDXVHDFRQƮLFW7RFOHDQWKHV\VWHPSDFNDJH
Advanced Options > Recovery Mode and press Enter. cache, enter: sudo apt-get clean, followed by: sudo apt-get
autoremove.

STEP 2 The system will display a menu, use the arrow keys and STEP 4 If you’re in the middle of watching or listening to
choose Root (near the bottom). Press Enter twice and content and you suddenly lose all sound, try the
you’ll be at the command prompt with ‘root’ as the username. Enter: following. Open a Terminal session and enter: killall
passwd username, where username is your Ubuntu username. Enter SXOVHDXGLRUPUaFRQ¿JSXOVH UPUaSXOVH .
a new password and when done type in init 2 to return to the Wait for half a minute or so, then enter: SXOVHDXGLR±N.
system as normal.

48 [Link]
STEP 5 If you experience any issues when running Ubuntu in a STEP 8 Wi-Fi issues can be a broad subject to try and
VirtualBox environment, most of the time the cause is troubleshoot, purely due to the number of wireless
down to the graphical 3D acceleration. There are two elements to this adapters there are available. Most of the time issuing: sudo service
WURXEOHVKRRW7KHƬUVWLVWRFOLFN'HYLFHVIURPWKH9LUWXDO%R[PHQX network-manager restart will solve the problem, as this will
and ‘Insert Guest Additions CD Image’. Click Run and enter your restart the networking service.
password to reinstall the Guest Additions extras.

STEP 6 The second part is to shutdown Ubuntu, then from the STEP 9 If the Wi-Fi problem still persists, you’ll need to identify
VirtualBox Manager app select Settings > Display the make and model of the wireless adapter in your
and untick the Enable 3D Acceleration box in the Acceleration section. system. You can do this with: VXGROVKZ±FODVVQHWZRUN. This
5HVWDUW8EXQWXDQGVHHLILWƬ[HVWKHSUREOHP information will display the product and vendor IDs that you can use
LQDQ,QWHUQHWVHDUFKWRƬQGDVROXWLRQ

STEP 7 Often you’ll be asked by the community to provide

logs and information regarding your hardware and STEP 10 While the help system within Ubuntu and on the
setup. To get this information use the following commands Ubuntu website will aid most users, sometimes a
separately: dmesg > [Link], udevadm info --export- little extra help is needed. The Ubuntu Community Forum is one of
db > [Link], xkbcomp -xkb :0 - > [Link] and WKHEHVWUHVRXUFHVIRUƬQGLQJKHOS\RXFDQYLVLWLWDW
setxkbmap -print > [Link](DFKƬOHFUHDWHGRƪHUVD https:[Link]/. Second to that, http:askubuntu.
GLƪHUHQWYLHZRIWKH8EXQWXVHWXS com/ is the other great place to visit.

[Link] 49
 How to Change the Default
Browser and Email Client
8EXQWXVKLSVZLWKWKHYHU\FDSDEOH)LUHIR[ZHEEURZVHUDQG7KXQGHUELUGHPDLOFOLHQW
both of which are more than suitable for the vast majority of users. However they’re
not to everyone’s tastes; some prefer a sleeker browser and email interface.

DEFAULT TO ANOTHER BROWSER

,WoVDVLPSOHHQRXJKWDVNWRLQVWDOODQRWKHUEURZVHUDQGHPDLOEXWZKDWLI\RXZDQWHGWRDOVRFKDQJHWKHZD\WKHV\VWHPORRNHG
IRUƬOHKDQGOLQJ"

STEP 1 Firefox is a great browser but it can be a little heavy on STEP 3 Simply open up the Dash and search for Chromium.
the system resources at times. Changing to a new When the icon appears in the results, click it to launch
default browser is relatively simple. Begin by installing Chromium, the newly installed browser. Just a quick note, if you’re running this
ZKLFKLV&KURPHIRU/LQX[6WDUWRƪZLWKDV\VWHPZLGHXSGDWHsudo from within VirtualBox and the screen goes blank when you open
apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade. &KURPLXPSRZHURƪWKH90DQGXQWLFNWKH'$FFHOHUDWLRQRSWLRQ
in the Display Settings.

STEP 2 To install Chromium enter: sudo apt-get install STEP 4 To have Chromium as the default browser, click on the
chromium-browser. Accept the additional installation System Settings app in the Launcher, then Details >
packages, around 250MB. When the installation is done you’ll be back Default Applications. In the drop-down box for Web, change
at the command prompt and can exit from the Terminal. from Firefox to Chromium. Exit the System Settings and any HTML or
RQOLQHƬOHUHTXHVWVZLOOEHKDQGOHGE\&KURPLXPXQOHVV\RXFKDQJH
the default application.

50 [Link]
DEFAULT TO ANOTHER EMAIL CLIENT
$VZLWKVHWWLQJWKHGHIDXOWEURZVHULQVWDOOLQJDQGXVLQJDGLƪHUHQWHPDLOFOLHQWDVZHOODVKDYLQJLWDVWKHGHIDXOWPDLODSS
is just as easy.

STEP 1 For this example you’ll use the lightweight email client STEP 3 As before, open the Dash and do a search for Geary;
Geary, as a new client over the preinstalled the Geary Mail icon should appear which you can click
Thunderbird. Start by adding the Geary repository: sudo add-apt- WRRSHQ:KHQLWƬUVWODXQFKHV\RXoOOQHHGWRJRWKURXJKWKHHPDLO
repository ppa:yorba/ppa; this way you will get the very latest DFFRXQWVHWXSSURFHVVDV\RXGLGZKHQ\RXƬUVWVHWXS7KXQGHUELUG
version when updating. Finish with a: sudo apt-get update to
refresh the software sources.

STEP 2 Now enter: sudo apt-get install geary. Accept

the 50MB or so, of packages for the installation and let
WKHFRPPDQGGRWKHUHVW<RXFDQH[LWWKH7HUPLQDOZKHQLWoVƬQLVKHG To enable all mail-to links to correctly associate Geary
with the installation.
STEP 4
instead of Thunderbird, follow the same process as
with setting Chromium as the default browser: System Settings >
Details > Default Applications and use the drop-down box
next to Mail to choose Geary.

EVOLUTION INTEGRATION
There is another email option, using Ubuntu Online Accounts and Evolution Mail. Start by clicking System Settings >
Online Accounts > Add Account > Google DQGƬOOLQ\RXUGHWDLOV

STEP 1 Filling in your Google account details in Online STEP 2 When your Google account is set up in Online
Accounts and allowing Ubuntu and Google to work Accounts, drop into Terminal and enter: sudo
together, gives a seamless integration with the Evolution Data Server; apt-get install evolution. When installed, do a Dash search
this is a suite of apps for mail, calendars, address books and so on. for Evolution and click the Evolution Mail and Calendar icon. Once
Evolution is launched, it will automatically be integrated with your
Google details. Don’t forget to change the Default Applications for
Mail to Evolution, though.

[Link] 51
 How to Install Adobe Flash
on Ubuntu
$ERXWIRXU\HDUVDJR$GREHGLWFKHGLWV)ODVK3OD\HU3OXJLQIRU/LQX[EDVHGV\VWHPV
RSWLQJLQVWHDGIRUDWKHQQHZSOXJLQFDOOHG3HSSHU7KHXSWDNHRI3HSSHUGLGQoW
DPRXQWWRPXFKDQGDVDUHVXOW$GREHKDVUHFHQWO\UHLQWHJUDWHG)ODVKEDFNLQWR/LQX[

FLASH FORWARD
7KHUHDUHDFRXSOHRIZD\V\RXFDQPDNHVXUH\RXoUHXSWRGDWHZLWK$GREH)ODVKHYHQLILWoVQRORQJHUTXLWHDVSURPLQHQWRQWKH
Internet as it once was.

STEP 1 7KHƬUVWRSWLRQLVE\IDUWKHHDVLHVWZD\WREHDEOHWR STEP 3 Chromium, by default, uses the latest version of the
enjoy Flash-based content in Ubuntu. It simply Pepper Plugin, the aforementioned alternative that
requires you to install and use Chromium instead of Firefox. Make Adobe launched in place of the Flash Plugin. Pepper didn’t branch out
sure the system is up to date: sudo apt-get update && sudo too far beyond Chromium; it’s certainly not in Firefox by default.
apt-get upgrade.

STEP 4 By using Chromium, which is an open source browser

where Google Chrome draws its source code by the
way, you’re always guaranteed the latest version of Pepper. However,
STEP 2 With the system up to date, install Chromium browser,
not all Flash based content will use Pepper.
if you haven’t already, with: sudo apt-get install
chromium-browser. Launch the Dash and search for Chromium,
clicking the Chromium Web Browser icon that appears.

52 [Link]
INSTALLING FLASH IN UBUNTU
6RPHWLPHV\RXQHHGWRLQVWDOOWKHDFWXDOVRIWZDUHLQRUGHUIRUVRPHFRQWHQWWRZRUN:KLOHDOWHUQDWLYHSURMHFWVDUHƬQH
they sometimes don’t integrate quite as well as planned.

STEP 1 Installing Adobe Flash Player on Ubuntu is very simple. STEP 4 Once the software sources cache has been updated,
)LUVWWKRXJK\RXoOOQHHGWRHQDEOHDGLƪHUHQW open up a Terminal session. There’s no need to run
repository. Start by opening the Dash and searching for Software, sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade, as it’s
when the search result appears, click on the Software & Updates icon. already been done but if you want to there’s no harm. In the Terminal,
enter: VXGRDSWJHWLQVWDOODGREHÀDVKSOXJLQ. Press ‘y’ to
accept the new software.

STEP 2 With the Software & Updates app open, click on the
Other Software tab. In here you’ll be able to include or
exclude any of the repositories you’ve already added. However, in this Together with the plugin itself the installation also
STEP 5
case, you need to include the Canonical Partners repositories includes Adobe Flash Player Preferences, which can be
(including the Source Code one). Simply tick the boxes next to the launched from a Dash search of Adobe. The preferences allow you to
repo names. DGMXVWWKHYDULRXVVHWWLQJVRIWKH)ODVK3OD\HU8QOHVVWKHUHoVDVSHFLƬF
UHDVRQZK\\RXZDQWWRDOWHUWKHVHWWLQJVWKHGHIDXOWVZLOOVXƯFHIRU
most users.

STEP 3 You’ll need to enter your authentication password but STEP 6 To test the Flash Plugin, restart any browser you may
when both Canonical Partner repo boxes are ticked, have open and navigate to the site that was causing
click on the Close button. You’ll then be asked to ‘Reload’ the the ‘No Flash Installed’ issue. You may need to click the Flash section
software sources, as you’ve included two extra. Click on the Reload on the page and Allow the content to be loaded but all being well you
button to continue. should be Flash enabled for any installed browser.

[Link] 53
 Connecting to Windows
Shares
One of the often misjudged remarks about Linux in general is its inability to communicate
ZLWKDQGXVHDVKDUHGDUHDIROGHURUƬOHIURPDQRWKHUV\VWHPVXFKDV:LQGRZV7KDWoVVLPSO\
ZURQJ<RXFDQKDSSLO\XVH8EXQWXDQGDFFHVVDQ\:LQGRZVEDVHGVKDUHGUHVRXUFHV

ACCESSING SHARES
Accessing Windows Shares and even shared network devices such as NAS are easy to set up and use with Ubuntu. You can even
make the share permanently accessible.

STEP 1 To connect STEP 3 You’ve just created a Windows share, so now you need
to a to get on the Ubuntu computer to connect to it. The
Windows share, Ubuntu HDVLHVWPHWKRGLVWRRSHQXS)LOHVƬOHPDQDJHUWKHQIURPWKHVLGHEDU
uses the Samba set of click on the ‘+ Other Locations’ link.
networking protocols,
GHƬQHGDVVPEZKHQ\RX
try to make the
connection. Let’s start
with a quick example. On
a Windows PC, create a
share, either a drive or a
folder, and enable it as
shared by right-clicking,
then Properties >
Sharing > Advanced
Sharing.

STEP 4 Once that link has been clicked Ubuntu will begin to
auto-scan the local network for advertised, shared
STEP 2 In the resources. You can opt to go through the Windows Network link
Advanced
Sharing window tick the that’s in the main section of Files, but that’s often hit and miss,
Share This Folder box and HVSHFLDOO\LI\RXKDYHVHFXUHGWKHUHVRXUFHVEHKLQGDƬUHZDOO,QVWHDG
enter a name for the look to the Connect to Server area.
shared resource. You can
also add any comments to
help to identify the
resource on the network.
Click on the OK button
when you’re done, then
Close for the resource
properties window.

54 [Link]
STEP 5 There are two methods you can use to connect to a STEP 8 With luck you should now be connected to the share.
Windows share: by the server and share name or by From here you can drag and drop content or create
the IP address. First you need the connecting protocol, smb. In the content from both computers. If for some reason the connection
Connect to Server box enter smb:, this means you’re using smb to couldn’t be established, check the permission from the Windows PC,
connect to a non-local resource. that the connecting user has Full Control over the shared folder.

STEP 6 Next, add the server name, which is the name of the STEP 9 You can also connect to the share by using the PCs IP
Windows computer as seen on the network, followed address, smb:ipaddress/Ubuntu. In your example, the
by a forward slash, then the name of the share that you just created. IP address of the Windows PC is [Link], so the connection
So the end result, in your example, would be: smb:windows/Ubuntu. would read: smb:[Link]/Ubuntu. This is also most often
You’ll need to change the server and share names accordingly. used when connecting to NAS units and other network shares that
are non-Microsoft created.

STEP 7 Click on the Connect button, or press Enter. You’ll now STEP 10 To connect to a share via the Terminal, start by
be asked to authenticate yourself for the share. You’ll installing cifs (another protocol), sudo apt-get
need to enter your username and password that you log into install cifs. Then create a mount point in Ubuntu: sudo mkdir
Windows with here, not Ubuntu. You can also click on the Remember /media/nameofshare, replacing nameofshare with your own share
Forever radio button to add the username and password to the name. Now mount the shared resource: VXGRPRXQW±WFLIV
Ubuntu Keyring passwords and key database. windows/Ubuntu /media/Windows -o username=david
replacing everything with your details. The share will be located at /
media/nameofshare.

[Link] 55
 Creating Bash Scripts and
Automating Tasks – Part 1
$V\RXDGYDQFHZLWK8EXQWX\RXoOOHYHQWXDOO\ZDQWWRVWDUWWRFUHDWH\RXURZQDXWRPDWHG
WDVNVDQGSURJUDPV7KHVHDUHHVVHQWLDOO\VFULSWV%DVK6KHOOVFULSWVWREHH[DFWDQGWKH\ZRUN
LQWKHVDPHZD\DVD'26%DWFKƬOHGRHVRUDQ\RWKHUSURJUDPPLQJODQJXDJH

GET SCRIPTING
$%DVKVFULSWLVVLPSO\DVHULHVRIFRPPDQGVWKDW8EXQWXZLOOUXQWKURXJKWRFRPSOHWHDFHUWDLQWDVN7KH\FDQEHVLPSOHRU
remarkably complex, it all depends on the situation.

STEP 1 You’ll be working within the Terminal and with a text STEP 3 To begin with, and before you start to write any scripts,
editor throughout the coming pages. There are you’ll need to create a folder where you can put all the
alternatives to the text editor, which we’ll look at in a moment, but for scripts into. Start with mkdir scripts and enter the folder cd
the sake of ease, you’ll be doing the examples in Gedit. Before you scripts/. This will be your working folder and from here you can
begin however, run through the customary update check: sudo create sub-folders if you want of each script that’s created.
apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade.

STEP 2 There are several text editors we can use to create a STEP 4 Windows users will be aware that in order for a batch
Bash script: Gedit, Vi, Nano, Vim, GNU Emacs and so on. ƬOHWRZRUNDVLQEHH[HFXWHGDQGIROORZWKH
In the end it all comes down to personal preference. Our use of Gedit SURJUDPPLQJZLWKLQLWLWQHHGVWRKDYHD%$7ƬOHH[WHQVLRQ/LQX[LV
is purely due to making it easier to read the script in the screenshots an extension-less operating system, however, the convention is to
you see below. give scripts a .sh extension.

56 [Link]
STEP 5 Let’s start with a simple script to output something to STEP 8 When you enter ls again, you’ll notice that the
the Terminal. Enter: gedit [Link]. This will [Link] script has now turned from being white
ODXQFK*HGLWDQGFUHDWHDƬOHFDOOHGKHOORZRUOGVK,Q*HGLWHQWHUWKH WRJUHHQPHDQLQJWKDWLWoVQRZDQH[HFXWDEOHƬOH7RUXQWKHVFULSWLQ
following: #!/bin/bash, then on a new line: echo Hello World!. other words make it do the things you’ve typed into it, enter ./
[Link].

STEP 6 The #!/bin/bash line tells the system what Shell STEP 9 Although it’s not terribly exciting, the words ‘Hello
you’re going to be using, in this case Bash. The hash # World!’ should now be displayed in the Terminal. The
denotes a comment line, one that is ignored by the system; the echo command is responsible for outputting the words after it in the
explanation mark ! means that the comment is bypassed and will Terminal; as you move on you can make the echo command output to
force the script to execute the line as a command. This is also known other sources.
as a Hash-Bang.

STEP 7 <RXFDQVDYHWKLVƬOHFOLFNLQJWKH6DYHEXWWRQLQWKH STEP 10 Think of echo as the old BASIC Print command. It will
corner of Gedit and exit back to the Terminal. display either text, number or any variables that are
Entering ls will reveal the script in the folder. To make any script stored in the system, such as the current system date. Try this
executable, and able to run, you’ll need to modify its permissions. example: echo Hello World! Today is $(date +%A). The
Do this with chmod +x [Link]. You need to do this with $(date +%A) is calling the system variable that stores the current day
every script created. of the week.

[Link] 57
 Creating Bash Scripts and
Automating Tasks – Part 2
,QWKHODVWVHFWLRQZHORRNHGDWFUHDWLQJ\RXUƬUVW%DVKVFULSW+HOOR:RUOGDQGDGGLQJD
system variable. What we’ll do now is expand the use of variables, and see what you can do
when you start to play around with creating your own unique variables.

VARIABLES
-XVWDVLQHYHU\RWKHUSURJUDPPLQJODQJXDJHD%DVKVFULSWFDQVWRUHDQGFDOOFHUWDLQYDULDEOHVIURPWKHV\VWHPHLWKHUJHQHULFRU
user created.

STEP 1 Start by creating a new script called [Link]: gedit STEP 3 The output will now be Hello David. This is because
[Link]. In it enter: #!/bin/bash, then, echo Bash automatically assigns variables for the user, that
Hello $16DYHWKHƬOHDQGH[LW*HGLW%DFNLQWKH7HUPLQDOPDNHWKH are then held and passed to the script. So the variable ‘$1’ now holds
script executable with: chmod +x [Link]. n'DYLGo<RXFDQFKDQJHWKHYDULDEOHE\HQWHULQJVRPHWKLQJGLƪHUHQW
./[Link] Ubuntu.

STEP 2 As the script is now executable, run it with: ./hello. STEP 4 You can even rename variables. Modify the [Link]
sh. As you probably expected a simple ‘Hello’ is script with the following: ¿UVWQDPH , surname=$2,
displayed in the Terminal. However, if you now issue the command HFKR+HOOR¿UVWQDPHVXUQDPH (putting each statement on a
with a variable it begins to get interesting. For example, try: ./ new line). Save the script and exit back into the Terminal.
[Link] David.

58 [Link]
STEP 5 When you run the script now there are two custom STEP 8 You can expand things further. Create a new script
variables: ./[Link] David Hayward. Naturally called [Link]. Enter the scripting as below
changing the two variables with your own name; unless you’re also in the screenshot, save it and make it executable with the chmod
called David Hayward. At the moment you’re just printing the command. You’ll notice there are a few new additions to the
contents, so now expand the two-variable use a little. VFULSW{QRZ

STEP 6 Create a new script called [Link], using the STEP 9 We’ve added a –n to the echo command here which
same format as the [Link] script but changing the will leave the cursor on the same line as the question,
variable names. Here you can add ¿UVWQXPEHU and secondnumber instead of a new line. The Read command stores the user’s input as
and use the echo command to output some simple arithmetic by WKHYDULDEOHƬUVWQDPHDQGVXUQDPHWRWKHQUHDGLWEDFNODWHULQWKH
placing an integer expression: HFKR7KHVXPLV ¿UVWQXPEHU last echo line; the Clear command clears the screen.
+$secondnumber)). Save the script and make it executable (chmod
+x [Link]).

STEP 7 When you now run the [Link] script you can enter STEP 10 $VDƬQDODGGLWLRQLQFOXGHWKHGDWHYDULDEOHWKDW\RX
two numbers: ./[Link] 1 2. The result will used in the last section. Amend the last line of the
hopefully be 3, with the Terminal displaying ‘The sum is 3’. Try it with a script to read: HFKR+HOOR¿UVWQDPHVXUQDPHKRZDUH\RX
IHZGLƪHUHQWQXPEHUVDQGVHHZKDWKDSSHQV6HHDOVRLI\RXFDQ RQWKLV¿QH GDWH$ ". The output should display the
alter the script and rename it ‘do multiplication, and subtraction’. current day of the week, calling it from a system variable.

[Link] 59
 Creating Bash Scripts and
Automating Tasks – Part 3
In parts one and two of Creating Bash Scripts, we looked at some very basic Bash scripting that
involved outputting text to the screen, getting a user’s input, storing it and outputting that to
the screen. Now let’s combine what we know so far and introduce Loops into our code.

IF, THEN, ELSE

As with most programming structures there will come a time when you’ll need to loop through the commands you’ve entered to
FUHDWHEHWWHUIXQFWLRQDOLW\DQGXOWLPDWHO\DEHWWHUSURJUDP

STEP 1 We’ll look at the If, Then and Else statements now, which STEP 3 The next line, ELSE, is what happens if the variable
when executed correctly will compare a set of doesn’t equal ‘David’. In this case it simply outputs to
instructions and simply work out that IF something is present, THEN do the screen the now familiar ‘Hello…’. The last line, the FI statement, is
VRPHWKLQJ(/6(GRVRPHWKLQJGLƪHUHQW&UHDWHDQHZVFULSWFDOOHG the command that will end the loop. If you have an If command
[Link] and enter the text in the screenshot below into it. without a Fi command, then you’ll get an error.

STEP 2 [Link] is a copy of [Link] but with a slight STEP 4 You can obviously play around with the script a little,
GLƪHUHQFH+HUHZHoYHDGGHGDORRSVWDUWLQJDWWKHif changing the name variable that triggers a response or
statement. This means, IF the variable entered is equal to David the PD\EHHYHQLVVXLQJDUHVSRQVHLIWKHERWKWKHƬUVWQDPHDQG
next line, THEN is the reaction to what happens; in this case it will VXUQDPHYDULDEOHVPDWFKDVSHFLƬFYDULDEOH
output to the screen ‘Awesome name,’ followed by the variable
(which is David).

60 [Link]
MORE LOOPING
<RXFDQORRSRYHUGDWDXVLQJWKH)25:+,/(DQG817,/VWDWHPHQWV7KHVHFDQEHKDQG\LI\RXoUHEDWFKQDPLQJFRS\LQJRU
running a script where a counter is needed.

STEP 1 Create a new script called [Link]. Enter the text STEP 4 The UNTIL loop works much the same way as the
in the screenshot below, save it and make it WHILE loop only, more often than not, in reverse. So
executable. This creates the variable ‘count’, that at the beginning our counting to a hundred, using UNTIL, would be: until [ $count
RIWKHVFULSWHTXDOV]HUR7KHQVWDUWWKH:+,/(ORRSZKLFK:+,/( -gt 100 ]; do7KHGLƪHUHQFHEHLQJ817,/FRXQWLVJUHDWHUWKDQ
count is less than (the LT part) 100 will print the current value of (the gt part) one hundred, keep on looping.
count in the echo command.

STEP 2 Executing the [Link] script will result in the numbers STEP 5 <RXoUHQRWOLPLWHGWRQXPEHUV]HURWRRQHKXQGUHG
0 to 99 listing down the Terminal screen; when it Within the loop, you can have whatever set of
reaches 100 the script will end. Modifying the script with the FOR commands you like and execute them as many times as you want the
statement, works in much the same way. To use it in your script, enter ORRSWRUXQIRUUHQDPLQJDPLOOLRQƬOHVFUHDWLQJƬIW\IROGHUVHWF)RU
the text from the screenshot into the [Link] script. example, this script will create ten folders named folder1 through to
folder10 using the FOR loop.

STEP 3 The addition you have here is: for count in STEP 6 Using the FOR statement once more, you can execute
{0..100}; do. Which means: FOR the variable ‘count’ the counting sequence by manipulating the {0..100}
,1WKHQXPEHUVIURP]HURWRRQHKXQGUHGWKHQVWDUWWKHORRS7KH part. This section of the code actually means {START..END..
rest of the script is the same. Run this script and the same output INCREMENT}, if there’s no increment then it’s just a single digit up to
should appear in the Terminal. the END. For example, you could get the loops to count up to 1000 in
two’s with: for count in {0..100..2}; do.

[Link] 61
 Creating Bash Scripts and
Automating Tasks – Part 4
We’ve already encountered some user interaction with our scripts, asking what the user’s
name is and so on; and we’ve looked at creating loops within the script to either count or
simply do something a number of times. Let’s combine all this and expand it some more.

CHOICES AND LOOPS

Here is another command, CHOICE, along with some nested IF and ELSE statements. Start by creating a new script called
[Link].

STEP 1 The [Link] script is beginning to look a lot more STEP 3 You can, of course, increase the number of choices but
complex. What we have here is a list of four choices, you’ll need to make sure that you match the number of
with three possible options. The options: Ubuntu, Is, and Awesome choices to the number of IF statements. The script can quickly
will be displayed if the user presses the correct option key. If not, then become a very busy screen to look at. This lengthy script is another
the menu will reappear (the fourth choice). way of displaying a menu, this time with a fancy colour scheme too.

STEP 2 If you follow the script through you’ll soon get the STEP 4 You can use the arrow keys and Enter in the menu set
hang of what’s going on, based on what we’ve already up in the script. Each choice is an external command
covered. WHILE, IF, and ELSE, with the FI closing loop statement will that’ll feedback various information. Play around with the
run through the options and bring you back to the start if you pick the commands and choices and see what you can come up with. It’s a bit
wrong option. beyond what you’ve looked at but it gives a good idea of what can
be achieved.

62 [Link]
CREATING A BACKUP TASK SCRIPT
2QHRIWKHPRVWZHOOXVHGH[DPSOHVRI%DVKVFULSWLQJLVWKHFUHDWLRQRIDEDFNXSURXWLQHRQHWKDWZLOODXWRPDWHWKHWDVNDVZHOO
as adding some customisations along the way.

STEP 1 A very basic backup script would look something along STEP 4 Once the ~/backups folder is created, you can now
the lines of: #!/bin/bash, then, tar cvfz ~/ create a new subfolder within it based on the Time
backups/[Link] ~/Documents/. This will create a Stamp variables you set up at the beginning. Add mkdir -p
FRPSUHVVHGƬOHEDFNXSRIWKHa'RFXPHQWVIROGHUZLWKHYHU\WKLQJLQ $dest/”$day $month $year”. It’s in here that you’ll put the
LWDQGSXWLWLQDIROGHUFDOOHGEDFNXSVZLWKWKHQDPHP\EDFNXSWJ] EDFNXSƬOHUHOHYDQWWRWKDWGD\PRQWK\HDU

STEP 2 :KLOHSHUIHFWO\ƬQH\RXFDQPDNHWKHVLPSOHVFULSWD STEP 5 With everything in place, you can now enter the
ORWPRUHLQWHUDFWLYH%HJLQZLWKGHƬQLQJVRPH actual backup routine, based on the Tar command
variables. Enter the text in the screenshot into a new [Link] from Step 5. Combined with the variables, you have: tar cvfz
script. You’ll notice that we’ve misspelt ‘source’ as ‘sauce’; this is $dest/”$day $month $year”/[Link]
because there’s already a built-in command called ‘source’ hence the $sauce. In the screenshot, we’ve added a handy “Now backing up...”
GLƪHUHQWVSHOOLQJRQRXUSDUW echo command.

STEP 3 The previous script entries allowed you to create a STEP 6 Finally, you can add a friendly message: echo
Time Stamp, so you know when the backup was “Backup complete. All done...”. The
taken. You also created a ‘dest’ variable, which is the folder where completed script isn’t too over-complex, and can be easily customised
WKHEDFNXSƬOHZLOOEHFUHDWHG aEDFNXSV <RXFDQQRZDGGD to include any folder within your Home area, as well as the entire
VHFWLRQRIFRGHWRƬUVWFKHFNLIWKHaEDFNXSVIROGHUH[LWVLIQRW Home area itself.
then it’ll create one.

[Link] 63
 Creating Bash Scripts and
Automating Tasks – Part 5
7KHEDFNXSVFULSWZHORRNHGDWSUHYLRXVO\FDQEHIXUWKHUDPHQGHGWRLQFRUSRUDWHFKRLFHVXVHU
interaction with regards to where the backup file will be copied to and so on. Automating tasks is
one of the main benefits of Bash scripting, a simple script can help you out in many ways.

EASY AUTOMATION AND HANDY SCRIPTS

$VFULSWLVDEHWWHUDQVZHUWKDQHQWHULQJOLQHDIWHUOLQHRIFRPPDQGVWRUHWULHYHV\VWHPLQIRUPDWLRQƬQGDƬOHRUUHQDPHDEDWFK
RIƬOHV

STEP 1 Start by creating a script to help display the Ubuntu STEP 3 (DFKRIWKHVHFWLRQVUXQVDGLƪHUHQW7HUPLQDO
system information, always a handy thing to have. command, outputting the results under the
Create a new script called: [Link] and enter the following into appropriate heading. You can include a lot more, such as the current
Gedit, or the text editor of your choice. aliases being used in the system, the current time and date and so on.
3OXV\RXFRXOGDOVRSLSHDOOWKDWLQIRUPDWLRQLQWRDKDQG\+70/ƬOH
ready to be viewed in a browser.

STEP 2 We’ve included a couple of extra commands in this STEP 4 Although there are simple Terminal commands to help
VFULSW7KHƬUVWLVWKHHH[WHQVLRQIRUHFKRWKLVPHDQV \RXORRNIRUDSDUWLFXODUƬOHRUIROGHULWoVRIWHQPRUH
it will enable echo interpretation of additional instances of a new line, fun to create a script to help you. Plus, you can use that script for
as well as other special characters. The proceeding ‘31;43m’ element other non-technical users. Create a new script called [Link],
enables colour for foreground and background. entering the content from the screenshot below.

64 [Link]
STEP 5 When executed the script waits for input from the STEP 8 The output
XVHULQWKLVFDVHWKHƬOHH[WHQVLRQVXFKDVMSJPS from colours.
and so on. It’s not very friendly, though. Make it a little friendlier by sh can of course, be mixed
Adding an echo, with: echo -n “Please enter the WRJHWKHUEULQJLQJGLƪHUHQW
H[WHQVLRQRIWKH¿OH\RX¶UHORRNLQJIRU³, just HƪHFWVGHSHQGLQJRQZKDW
before the read command. you want to the output to
say. For example, white text
LQDUHGEDFNJURXQGƮDVKLQJ
(or blinking). Sadly the
EOLQNLQJHƪHFWGRHVQoWZRUN
on all Terminals, so you may
need to change to a
GLƪHUHQW7HUPLQDO

STEP 6 Here’s an interesting, fun kind of script using the app STEP 9 Whilst we’re on making fancy scripts, how about
espeak. Install espeak with: sudo apt-get install using Zenity to output a graphical interface? Enter
espeak, then enter the text below into a new script called [Link]. below into a new script, [Link]. Make it executable and then
$V\RXFDQVHHLWoVDUHKDVKRIWKHƬUVWJUHHWLQJVFULSWWKDW\RXUDQ run it. You should have a couple of dialogue boxes appear, followed
Only this time, it uses the variables in the espeak output. E\DƬQDOPHVVDJH

STEP 7 <RXEULHƮ\ STEP 10 While gaming in a Bash script isn’t something that’s
looked at often touched upon, it is entirely possible, albeit a
putting some colours in the little basic. If you fancy playing a game, enter: wget http:bruxy.
output for scripts. Whilst it [Link]/linux/housenka/[Link], make the script
would take too long to dig a executable and run it. It’s in Polish, written by Martin Bruchanov but
little deeper into the colour we’re sure you can modify it. Hint: the title screen is in Base64.
options, here’s a script that
will output what’s available.
Create a new script called
[Link] and enter the
below text into it.

[Link] 65
 Gaming on Ubuntu
/LQX[GRHVQoWUHSUHVHQWWKHPDLQWDUJHWRI3&JDPHVGHYHORSHUVEXWLWGRHVKDYHDJRRG
VHOHFWLRQRQRƪHU8EXQWXDSSHDUVWREHRQHRIWKHPRUHIULHQGO\GLVWURVZKHQLWFRPHV
WR/LQX[JDPLQJ%XWZKDWNLQGRIV\VWHPGR\RXQHHGIRUGHFHQW8EXQWXJDPLQJ"

GAME ON!
%XLOGLQJDQ8EXQWXJDPLQJV\VWHPFDQEHIUXVWUDWLQJ$IWHUDOOLWGHSHQGVRQZKDWNLQGRIJDPHV\RXZDQWWRSOD\DQGZKDW
GULYHUVDUHDYDLODEOHIRUWKHKDUGZDUHKHUHZHDUHORRNLQJDWWKHEXGJHWHQGRIWKHPDUNHW

7KHƬUVWVWHSLQ CPU: One of the most important components, for obvious

the process of reasons, the CPU will determine how fast the system works,
designing an Ubuntu including gaming. A good entry level model is an AMD Athlon X4
gaming PC is to work out 860K priced at around £64. Whereas an excellent mid-range CPU
what kind of games you would be an Intel Core i3-6100, at around £110.
plan to play on it. There are
thousands of titles
available, that cover
everything from simulation,
third-person shooters and
MMOs, to adventure, racing
and strategy.

Whilst it’s impossible to cater for every gaming title and not
EHYHU\FRVWHƪHFWLYHWRRSWIRUWKHPRVWSRZHUIXOJDPLQJ
setup, we’ll look at the basics needed for a middle-of-the-road, Memory: Ubuntu isn’t quite as fussy as Windows, since most
DƪRUGDEOH8EXQWX*DPLQJ3& of the core OS runs on a relatively low amount of memory.
However, gaming does come at a hefty memory cost at times. 8GB is
generally regarded as the ideal amount, in terms of performance and
FRVWHƪHFWLYHQHVV$JRRGH[DPSOHLV&UXFLDO%DOOLVWL[6SRUW*%NLW
valued at
roughly £55.

66 [Link]
 Storage: An SSD is Monitor: The
by far the fastest monitor is often
storage medium overlooked when it comes
available today, so it to gaming, as most any
will make a huge monitor will output the
GLƪHUHQFHZKHQLW game’s graphics. Some
comes to most aspects of the monitors, though, are
overall system; but, as you start to look for higher better than others. A
capacities, the price soon rises. A good mid-level choice would be a JDPLQJVSHFLƬFPRQLWRU
480GB SSD, such as a Sandisk Z410, priced at £115. has a low refresh rate,
multiple inputs and
adjustable ergonomics. A
BenQ RL2460HT 24-inch monitor at £145 is a
Motherboard: The motherboard will greatly depend on the
good choice for most mid-level gamers.
type of CPU you go for. Ideally you want one that has a PCI-e
2.0 x16 slot available, as this is where you’ll
place a dedicated
graphics card. A good
example is an ASRock
H81M-HDS R2.0 (for Intel
CPUs) that costs Case: The case
DURXQG{~ doesn’t always
factor in too much
when it comes to
gaming but a good case
ZLOORƪHU\RXPRUHLQ
the long-run. A
mid-tower case, for
example, has plenty of
room to expand your
V\VWHPƬWELJJHU
GPUs, advanced
cooling and looks
good too. This CIT
Hero Mid-Tower case
comes in at a
reasonable £18.

Peripherals: A gaming keyboard and mouse may seem a little

unnecessary but a good pair would feature programmable
PDFURNH\VDQGEXWWRQV5*%OLJKWLQJHƪHFWVH[WUDGXUDELOLW\DQGDQ
ergonomic design. The Cooler Master Storm Devastator keyboard and
PRXVHNLWDW~LVDƬQHH[DPSOH

GPU: Graphics Cards are

the driving force behind
gaming. With a dedicated GPU,
you’ll be able to output HD and even 4K gaming resolutions.
Obviously, its performance comes at a price. An excellent modern
choice is an Nvidia GTX-1050, priced at around £110. It’s generally
agreed that Nvidia cards have better Linux drivers than AMD,
resulting in better performance.

[Link] 67
 Where to get Games for
Ubuntu – Part 1
8EXQWXJDPLQJLVQoWOLPLWHGWRMXVWDVLQJOHORFDWLRQWKHUHDUHFRXQWOHVVSODFHVZKHUH\RXFDQ
JHWKROGRIWKHODWHVWJDPHVDYDLODEOHIRU8EXQWXDVZHOODVDIHZFODVVLFVDQGUHPDVWHUHG
WLWOHV)URPWKHVHORFDWLRQVDQGUHSRVLWRULHV\RXFDQLQVWDOODQGSOD\VRPHJUHDWJDPHV

LOADING GAME...
:HoYHWLHGGRZQDIHZRIWKHJRRGZRUNLQJUHSRVDQGVLWHVWKDWIHDWXUHDQXPEHURIJHQUHVIRU8EXQWX:KDWHYHUW\SHRIJDPH
\RXoUHLQWR\RXoOOƬQGLWDPRQJWKHVH

STEP 1 Gnome Games is a packaged collection of quick, STEP 3 PlayDeb 2 is one of the largest repositories of Ubuntu
desktop-type games. First check for any system games available. You’ll need to add the PlayDeb
updates: sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade, repositories by opening Software & Updates via a Dash search, then
then run: sudo apt-get install gnome-games. Open the Dash > 2WKHU6RIWZDUH!$GGand enter: deb http:[Link].
$SSOLFDWLRQV/HQVDQGFKDQJHWKHƬOWHUWR*DPHV net/ubuntu yakkety-getdeb games. Click Add Source, and enter
your password. Then: wget -q -O- http:[Link]/
[Link] | sudo apt-key add from the Terminal.

STEP 2 The Ubuntu webpages features a maintained list of

natively available games for the most recent version of
STEP 4 Now navigate to http:[Link]/updates/
Ubuntu. Visit https:[Link]/community/Games/
ubuntu/16.10/ and click on the Install This Now button
NativeFreeUbuntuGames and you’ll have a choice of thirty-one
under the game you want to install and play. This will open the Launch
GLƪHUHQWJDPHV-XVWIROORZWKHOLQNVSURYLGHGDQGWKHRQVFUHHQ
Application window, click on the Open Link button to continue. You’ll
instructions to install them.
then be asked to install the additional software; click Install when
ready and enter your password.

68 [Link]
STEP 5 The Ubuntu Apps Directory has a huge list of games STEP 8 Steam is the largest digital library of PC games, for
available, 834 at the time of writing to be exact. All you Windows, Mac and Linux. At present, there are over
need to do is navigate to https:[Link]/cat/department/ 6300 Linux games on Steam, some are free but most you’ll have to
games/ and scroll through the available titles. When you’ve found the EX\7RLQVWDOO6WHDPƬUVWRSHQ6RIWZDUH 8SGDWHV via the Dash.
game you want, click it and follow the on-screen instructions. Some Once open, ensure the ‘Software Restricted by Copyright or Legal
games are free, others cost but there’s plenty of choice. Issues (Multiverse)’ option is ticked.

STEP 6 Ubuntu Free, found at KWWSZZZXEXQWXIUHHFRP

STEP 9 Drop into a Terminal and update the software sources,
ubuntu-games/, is limited to just a couple of pages of
then install Steam with: sudo apt-get update &&
games at the moment but has some pretty good titles in its collection.
sudo apt-get install steam. You’ll be asked to read the license
Simply visit the site, click on the game you’re interested in, and follow
agreement, use Tab until ‘OK’ is highlighted and press Enter. Next
the on-screen instructions to install it.
you’ll be asked to Agree or Decline the agreement, use the arrow keys
until Agree is highlighted and hit Enter again.

STEP 10 You can now either run Steam from a Dash search or
from the Terminal by entering steam. The Steam
STEP 7 While there are plenty of games from the sites we’ve client will run through its own update and install, and may restart a
already looked at, the Ubuntu Software portal is often couple of times. When it’s done you’ll be at the login page, to create a
overlooked. Click on Ubuntu Software from the Launcher, followed by new account or login with an existing one.
WKH*DPHVFDWHJRU\<RXoOOƬQGWKHWLWOHVOLVWHGE\JHQUHRU\RXFDQ
just for All and see what’s available.

[Link] 69
 Where to get Games for
Ubuntu – Part 2
8EXQWXKDVVRPHWULSOH$WLWOHJDPHVDYDLODEOHIRULWDGPLWWHGO\QRWDVPDQ\DV:LQGRZVEXW
there are some developers who include Linux in their production. However, not everyone
ZDQWVWKHODWHVWJUHDWHVWJDPHV8EXQWXPDNHVIRUDPDUYHOORXVUHWURJDPLQJSODWIRUP

RETRO REVIVAL
7KHUHDUHHPXODWRUVDYDLODEOHIRU8EXQWXWKDWFRYHUSUHWW\PXFKDOORIWKHFODVVLFKRPHFRPSXWHUVDQGFRQVROHVLQFOXGLQJROG
DOS games.

STEP 1 DOSBox is an emulator for old DOS-based games, STEP 3 To get hold of a valid ROM, enter the following: cd
that’s remarkably accurate and supports hundreds of Downloads/ && wget http:[Link].
FODVVLFV7RLQVWDOOLWƬUVWFKHFNIRUDQ\V\VWHPXSGDWHVsudo [Link]/spectrum/roms/[Link] && unzip [Link].
apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade. Then, simply Drop back to Home, cd ~ and create a new folder, mkdir .
run: sudo apt-get install dosbox. When it’s installed, open spectrum-roms. Copy the downloaded [Link] into the new folder:
up the Dash and search for DOS, click the icon and follow the cp ~/Downloads/[Link] ~/.spectrum-roms. Open Fuse from
on-screen instructions. WKH'DVK<RXoOOQHHGWRƬQGJDPHVDQG520VFDQEHIRXQGDW
http:[Link]/spectrum/[Link].

STEP 2 The ZX Spectrum was a much loved British home

computer from the 80s. It has a huge international
following, despite its quirkiness and thousands of games available to
download and play. Start by entering: sudo apt-get install
fuse-emulator-gtk. This will install the base Fuse emulator but
\RXoOOQHHGDYDOLG520ƬUVWZKLFKLVWKHDFWXDO26RIWKH6SHFWUXP

STEP 4 The SEGA Mega Drive (or Genesis) was one of the most
successful 16-bit consoles. To emulate it, drop into a
Terminal and enter: cd Downloads/ && wget
KWWSVVRXUFHIRUJHQHWSURMHFWVGJHQ¿OHVGJHQ
[Link]/download, then:WDU±[IGRZQORDG.
<RXoOOQHHGDQRWKHUSDFNDJHƬUVWLQVWDOOLWZLWKsudo apt-get
install libsdl1.2-dev. Now enter: cd dgen-sdl-1.33/.

70 [Link]
STEP 5 The package needs to be built from source, so use: ./ STEP 8 What you’ve just downloaded is the source code for
FRQ¿JXUH PDNH VXGRPDNHLQVWDOO. VICE, that contains the valid ROM. Enter: sudo tar
Once the package has been built, you can run the emulator from vzxf [Link] && cd /usr/lib/vice/temp/
within the dgen-sdl-1.33 folder, with dgen followed by the name of vice-2.4/data/C64/. You now need to copy the system ROMS:
the Mega Drive game ROM. Full instructions can be found at sudo cp basic chargen kernal /usr/lib/vice/C64/ &&
http:[Link]/. cd /usr/lib/vice/temp/vice-2.4/data/DRIVES/ && sudo
FSG,,GFUGRV XVUOLEYLFH'5,9(6 FG
/usr/lib/vice/temp/vice-2.4/data/PRINTER/ && sudo cp
cbm1526 mps801 mps803 nl10-cbm /usr/lib/vice/
PRINTER/.

STEP 6 The SEGA Master System, the Mega Drive’s STEP 9 Drop back to: cd /usr/lib/vice/ and delete the
predecessor, was a great 8-bit console with some temp folder: VXGRUP±UIWHPS. First we can start
memorable games available. To install Osmose, the Master System WKHHPXODWRUWRFUHDWHDVHWWLQJƬOHZLWKx64sc, then go to Settings
emulator, drop into a Terminal and enter: sudo apt-get install > Save Settings. Click OK and exit VICE. If you have a game, you can
osmose-emulator. When it’s installed, search for in the Dash and simply use: x64sc nameofgame to load it.
load up your favourite Master System game ROM.

STEP 10 The SNES is also available as an emulated console in

Ubuntu. In a Terminal enter: sudo apt-get
install zsnes. Open the Dash and search for Zsnes, then follow
STEP 7 The Commodore 64 was the rival to the ZX Spectrum the on-screen instructions to load up a game.
in the UK. A thoroughly excellent machine, we can
emulate it using VICE. First enter: sudo apt-get install vice
into the Terminal. You’ll need a valid C64 ROM, enter: cd /usr/lib/
vice && sudo mkdir temp && cd temp. Now use: sudo wget
http:[Link]/anonftp/pub/cbm/crossplatform/
emulators/VICE/[Link].

[Link] 71
HARDWARE & SOFTWARE

What’s new in the wonderful world of .0+ -
**' peripherals, apps

and games /#/
#1
/0-) 
*0-
# .
$)
this issue?

We have some awesome

hardware to show you this
month. Look out for the
FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro router as
well as the Edifier ES850NB
Headphones, reMarkable Move
Pro and a Retro Docking Station.
Over in the software section we
have the latest version of ESET
HOME Security and for gamers,
Tomb Raider for iOS, Hitman:
Absolution and more.

Hitman hits the small screen in

game form once again!

ˏ [Link]
Hardware Showcase
48 Edifier MR5 Speakers
50 Signature Slim Solar+ K980 Keyboard
51 Groov-e Thunder
52 Neo S Widget Edition
54 Hyperkin x GameSir X5
56 G’AIME: Plug & Play Time Crisis
58 Edifier ES850NB Headphones
59 Plaud Note Pro
60 STM Goods Dux 16L Backpack
61 Groov-E Smart Pet Feeder
62 Apple AirTag Gen2
63 Woksysis Retro Docking Station
64 reMarkable Paper Pro Move
65 FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro

Software Showcase
66 ESET HOME Security
68 SoundSource 6

Games Showcase
70 Tomb Raider for iOS
72 Hitman: Absolution for iOS
73 Total War: NAPOLEON
74 NFL Retro Bowl ’26 (Apple Arcade)
75 Jaws Retro Box

[Link] 
 Edifier MR5 Speakers
Wired/Wireless Studio Monitors
These studio-quality monitors do more than blast out your favourite sounds

Info//
Edifier
[Link]
£279.99, $349.99, 279,99 €
Compatibility: Bluetooth and
wired connectivity

W
ith the Edifier MR5 Studio Monitors, you can bring across lows, mids and highs. Designed for precision, it can
studio-quality sound into your everyday life. Designed faithfully reproduce every detail—making them ideal for music
for creators, music lovers and anyone who values production, video editing, and everyday listening. With a wide
clarity and depth in their audio, they feature Hi-Res Audio and flat frequency response from 46Hz to 40kHz, they offer
certification, a tri-amplified system and precision tuning from neutral and transparent audio, ensuring what you hear is
46Hz to 40kHz to deliver rich, balanced sound that reveals every exactly what was recorded.
detail, whether you're producing a track, editing content or The specially designed dimpled tweeter waveguide
just enjoying your favourite playlist. Sleek and versatile, it fits enhances high-frequency extension and clarity while
seamlessly into any space, with both wired (XLR, TRS, RCA, AUX) expanding the listening area. This ensures consistent, accurate
and wireless (Bluetooth 6.0 with LDAC) connectivity to suit your sound across a broader space. Delivering 110W RMS total
setup. You can also control everything from your phone with the output and peak SPL of 101dB (@1 meter), the Edifier MR5
Edifier ConneX app, and choose between clean Studio White or is ideal for near-field and mid-field setups and powerful
minimalist Matte Black to match your style. enough to fill medium-sized rooms with ease. Equipped with a
Featuring patented acoustic architecture and a premium analog front end and Class-D amplifiers, the system
sophisticated tri-amped active crossover, the Edifier MR5 supports 24-bit/96kHz resolution, ensuring precise signal
delivers a rich and natural sound with seamless transitions conversion and accurate amplification.


Stream those sounds
Edifier MR5 gives high-resolution wireless streaming with support
for the LDAC codec at up to 990kbps and 24-bit/96kHz, and has an
integrated Bluetooth 6.0 receiver. Its Bluetooth connectivity gives a stable
connection and the ability to connect two devices at once, making it
effortless to switch between sources. Its versatile connectivity options
offer balanced XLR & TRS Inputs; professional-grade connections with
low noise—perfect for audio interfaces and mixers. It has RCA and AUX
inputs offer easy connection to multiple devices simultaneously, and its
headphone output also makes it easy to connect headphones.
Attractive, convenient and versatile, the Edifier MR5 system is a
comprehensive solution for a range of audio needs. If you’re a video
editor, a podcaster or simply want a set of really great speakers for
listening to your music or accompanying your movies, look no further.

The MR5's are blessed with an array of possible

inputs to suit everyone from studio grade XLR
to wireless without missing a beat.

[Link] 
 Logitech Signature Slim
Solar+ K980 Keyboard
Charging cables? Who needs ‘em?

Info//
Logitech
[Link]
£99.99, $99.99, 109,99 €
Compatibility: Windows 10 or
later, macOS 12 or later, iPadOS/
iOS 16 or later, ChromeOS, Linux,
AndroidOS 12 or later

S
ometimes we all need a ray of light to inspire us. Logitech’s would be otherwise impossible too. Open all your work apps
Signature Slim Solar+ full-sized keyboard with numeric or switch to social media apps while taking a quick break,
pad is powered by solar and artificial light sources for and automate repetitive tasks with one keystroke. And, of
zero-hassle wireless typing and instant productivity. You can course, you can choose what specific Keys do for you. Assign
watch your home workspace enjoy its very own glow-up. The shortcuts to open a browser window or launch streaming
future’s bright with Logi LightCharge, an innovative energy music, and much more. And as always with a Logitech
technology which combines a light-absorbent strip and a keyboard, the typing experience is exceptional.
durable battery with up to ten years lifespan, working together
to turn solar and artificial light into stored power that’s stored for
up to four months. Designed to last ten million keystrokes and
enjoy uninterrupted typing: Signature Slim Solar+ is made with
recycled plastic and the aluminium in its inner plate is made with
renewable energy rather than fossil fuels.

A versatile device
An extension of your clean, clutter-free workspace, the
keyboard supports up to three devices. You can pair it with
your Mac, your iPad and your iPhone, for example, and then
switch between them at the touch of a button with Logitech’s
Easy Switch feature. Download the the Logi Options+ app
and you can customise and use your keyboard in ways that


 Groov-e Thunder
Bluetooth Speaker
It’s party time, so let’s roll out the Thunder!

Info//
Groov-e
[Link]
£29.99, $39.99, 34.99 €
Compatibility: Bluetooth
audio devices

T
he Groov-e Thunder Wireless Party Speaker is
great for social gatherings. It offers powerful,
high-quality sound and vibrant energy, which
is just what you need to keep the party going. The
bass is solid and strong, and the mid-sections sharp
and clear. It also has four eye-catching RGB lights that
react to the sound for a real nightclub experience.
The Thunder speaker is durable and rugged,
making it ideal for parties. Its lithium ion 2000 mAh
battery lasts for up to ten hours playtime too, so
you can set it up away from the mains for outdoor
fun. It recharges in only two and a half hours, and
you can position the speaker up to ten metres
away from your iPhone in an open area. It features
Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity, so the sound streaming
is always reliable.
Throw in intuitive controls, a lightweight,
compact design with a built-in carry handle and
volume/track control, and you have everything you
need to get the party started!

[Link] 
 Wonderful wargaming from 200 years ago

Info//
CRKD
[Link]/nswt
Price: £59.99
Compatibility:
macOS, iPadOS,
iOS

C
RKD, the top-notch collectible gaming brand keeps your NEO S charged and ready to go when
known for the award-winning Nitro Deck™ you’re not playing. The NEO S Widget Edition is
and NEO S collectible controllers, is thrilled designed to be noticed, even when it’s not in use,
to introduce the NEO S Widget Edition! This special adding a touch of flair to your gaming setup.
edition features an exclusive NEO S design and The NEO S Widget Edition is not just about looks; it’s
is now available at select Apple Store locations, packed with features to help you level up your gaming
[Link] and directly from CRKD. skills! With its small size, it’s perfect for gaming on the go.
This limited-edition NEO S Widget Edition is The NEO S comes with Hall-Effect Thumbsticks, which
compatible with many Apple devices, making it say goodbye to stick drift, and ‘No Deadzone Mode’,
perfect for gaming on controller-compatible games Motion Controls and Adjustable Trigger Sensitivity,
for iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple TV. making it a great match for Apple Arcade controller-
For the serious collector, the NEO S Widget compatible games. Plus, the remappable back buttons
Edition exudes gaming style, making a bold give you extra controls when you need them, and the
statement with its fresh semi-translucent design. adjustable vibration and swappable stick tops offer lots
Plus, it comes with a matching Charging Dock that of customisation options.


 Just like all CRKD hardware, the NEO S Widget Edition works
perfectly with the CRKD ‘True Collection System’, a free mobile app for
iOS. This app will keep track of your product number and rarity, adding
to your collection and giving you instant control over all your CRKD
gaming gear. CRKD products with Bluetooth® also connect to the CRKD
CTRL feature in the app, letting you tweak the adjustable features of
your controller.
You can get the NEO S Widget Edition today only from CRKD’s
website and some Apple Store locations. If you’re a gamer who
wants this must-have hardware, don’t wait too long, as it’s only
available in limited numbers. So, grab one while you can!

[Link] 
 Hyperkin x GameSir X5 Altero
Modular gaming controller
Making your mobile gaming experience a much better one!

Info//
GameSir
[Link]
Price: £TBC
Compatibility: macOS,
iPadOS, iOS

G
ameSir, a top-notch supplier of gaming gadgets, and and easily extendable. It connects wirelessly with iPad™,
Hyperkin, a global expert in video game hardware, have iPhone™, Android® devices and Nintendo Switch™ 1|2, using
teamed up to create something truly special! They’re GameSir’s smooth switching technology so you can play across
launching the X5 Alteron, the first mobile gaming controller that’s all your favourite platforms. Plus, it has advanced Bluetooth®
completely modular. technology, which is great for PC gaming.
This Hyperkin x GameSir X5 Alteron is perfect for both old- The X5 Alteron is a fantastic blend of old-school and new-
school and new games. It’s so clever that it took the combined age design. Hyperkin’s signature retro style, design and bright
skills of two of the best hardware design and engineering colours really shine through in each module, which beautifully
teams in gaming to make it happen. Hyperkin’s experience with combines nostalgic charm with modern design. Thanks to
retro games and GameSir’s expertise in gaming comfort come Hyperkin’s creative modular system, the X5 Alteron offers deep
together in the X5 Alteron, making it a controller like no other and customisation and controller performance that are built into its
the first to work with almost any gaming style or genre. very core. Gamers can truly create the controller of their dreams!
The X5 Alteron can change shape and size, thanks to From swapping the thumbstick layout from symmetrical to
GameSir’s innovative telescopic arm design that’s both compact top-stick design, transforming their D-Pad, altering the layout of

The configuration options for the controller are extensive giving you the
very best experience for the games you want to play.


 FORMS AVAILABLE:
• Specialty Button Modules – Adapt to practically any gaming genre or
preference.

• Capacitive Sticks – The latest technology, eliminating stick drift forever.

• Mouse Click to Hall Effect Triggers – Never miss a press and ensure
precise feedback.

• Rumble Motors – Feel every shot and immerse yourself in the action.

• Back Buttons – More choices, means more winning, giving gamers the
edge they need!

• Hot Swappable ABXY – Feel free to swap the face action buttons to
match your style.

• Transformable D-Pad – Customise the D-Pad to suit your unique

preferences.

• Different Stick Heights – Change the height of the thumbsticks to find

the perfect feel.

• 213mm Extension – Adjust the size of your controller to suit your needs.

• Tactile & Membrane Buttons – Every press and click feels just right.

the face action buttons, the X5 Alteron can do it all. Want to show off your • Bluetooth 5.2 – Enjoy a reliable connection to multiple devices with the
skills in the latest fighting game? Swap out to the Fight Pad module for latest technology.
unmatched precision. Do you miss the N64™ controller while playing NSO
• Type-C Charging – Charging is simple with industry-standard USB-C.
(Nintendo Switch Online)? The X5 Alteron has a module for that!
The button modules might be the most obvious innovation, but • Twin Stick Layout – Perfect for twin stick gamers!
Hyperkin and GameSir have put all their resources into making sure
• Top Twin Stick Layout – Keep your thumbs away with the Top Stick
every part of the X5 Alteron is tuned for gaming excellence. Precise
configuration.
capacitive sticks with custom stick heights mean stick drift is a thing
of the past, and Hall-Effect analog triggers provide fast, responsive • Asymmetrical Layout – Experience traditional offset-style gaming.
and super reliable feedback, ensuring precise play, no matter which
• X Input Button Layout – X Input fans will feel right at home.
gaming device you’re using.
One controller, endless possibilities: the X5 Alteron offers a • Switch Input Button Layout – Recreate the action button placement of
transformative gaming experience, setting new standards in the Nintendo Switch.
customisable gaming hardware, making this an essential purchase.
• GameCube™ Module – Great for emulation and NSO.

• N64 Module – For retro lovers, recreate the feel of this beloved
controller!

• Fight Pad Module – Introducing a new challenger! Fights feel right with
this module.

• Track Pad Module – Perfect for FPS games or replicating a mouse.

[Link] 
 G’AIM’E: Plug & Play
TIME CRISIS Gun Ultimate Pack
Once a staple of the games console experience, the light gun game has become more of an
unobtainable retro-gaming memory than an option in the home. That’s all about to change!!!

Info//
G’AIM’E
[Link]/
Price: £199.99
Compatibility:
All LCD, LED TV’s

A
s CRT TVs fade into the background, those classic used in light guns. We’ve put this together with a custom,
light gun games that test your skills have become a licensed version of TIME CRISIS, which is a faithful recreation
delightful reminder of the past. While there are a few of the original arcade ROM, giving you a fresh and unique
ways to bring these games to modern screens, they often arcade experience!
come with some compromises. Fans of classic light gun games will remember how the old
But G’AIM’E is a different story. There are no tricky setups or home technology limited movement and the constant need
workarounds needed. Just plug it in and get ready for a smooth, for calibration was a complete chore. G’AIM’E lets you move
hassle-free experience, playing those classic light gun games just freely without affecting the gun’s calibration in-game—just
as they were meant to be played. calibrate once before each game. The AI Gun automatically
The G’AIM’E gun uses our own special technology that uses detects and adjusts to your TV, so you get smooth, accurate
a high-resolution camera and AI, instead of the old infrared gameplay from all sorts of angles and distances. It works with


TVs of all sizes, lets you tilt your shots and is designed for a natural, TIME CRISIS (1-player mode only) - Released in arcades in 1995,
easy experience, so you can focus on the game, not the setup. TIME CRISIS revolutionised the lightgun shooter genre with its unique
Initially, the most exciting is the ability to get back behind the sights foot pedal system—allowing players to duck for cover and pop out to
of one of the best light gun games ever as you take on the role of a shoot. The game blends fast-paced gunplay with intense storytelling,
top-secret agent and a one-man army taking on a virtual army of foes. featuring the iconic agent Richard Miller on a mission to save a kidnapped
TIME CRISIS is back in its purest arcade form, so you can enjoy the same daughter of the president from a political conspiracy.
intense, fast-paced action you remember, at home. POINT BLANK (2-player support) - Known as GUN BULLET in Japan,
There are even more games coming! Buy one of our Premium or this 1994 arcade title is a fast and quirky mini-game collection that tests
Ultimate packages to unlock a wider selection of classic Lightgun titles reflexes, timing, and coordination—not just aim. Its colourful visuals and
like POINT BLANK, STEEL GUNNER, and STEEL GUNNER 2—so you can silly challenges make it a perfect party game, especially in 2-player mode.
get even more arcade action! More on that later. A classic example of arcade fun that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet
Tassei Denki has been given the green light by Bandai Namco keeps players coming back for more. ‘Great fun for family and friends!’
Entertainment Inc. (who hold the global licence) to bring this exciting STEEL GUNNER series (2-player support) - Debuting in 1990, STEEL
innovation to their favourite gun games and to all you Lightgun GUNNER was Namco’s first full-fledged sci-fi gun shooter, placing
shooter fans out there. G’AIM’E has brought back lightgun games as a players in the role of cyborg cops blasting through robot enemies in
staple of home entertainment! After setting up the basic equipment urban battle zones. With destructible environments and hostage-rescue
and giving the trigger a few pulls, it’s clear this technology has a bright tension, it delivered gritty action at a breakneck pace.
future ahead, with more games sure to follow! For now, what better STEEL GUNNER 2, the sequel, (1991), refined the formula with
way to start than with the classics of the sub-genre—the timeless improved graphics and more cinematic set pieces.
arcade shooters that still captivate today. Let’s take a look at what Simply put, there hasn’t been a reliable and accurate way to play light
games you get with this amazing package. gun games in the home since the introduction of the LCD TV. G’AIM’E has
changed this forever! Making this an essential not only for all retro-gamers
but for all gamers, creating an experience that inspires comparison with
the release of the Nintendo Wii. This is a game changer, point blank!!!
Don’t miss it!

There hasn’t been a reliable and accurate way to play light gun games in the home
since the introduction of the LCD TV. G’AIM’E has changed this forever!

[Link] 
 Edifier ES850NB
Bluetooth/cable headphones
Top-quality cans at an affordable price.

Info//
Edifier
[Link]
£149.99, $169.99, 149,99 €
Compatibility: Bluetooth V5.4,
Cable connection

W
ith the W820NB Plus headphones, Edifier aims mode lets you enjoy your music whilst being aware of your
for affordable but premium quality. It features surroundings without worrying about missing that important
support for LDAC coding, certification of Hi-Res train, plane, bus announcement.
Audio Wireless, 40mm dynamic driver with Titanium coated
composite diaphragm for crystal clear listening and up to 49 Non-stop music
hours of playtime. With a high capacity battery and an energy saving Bluetooth
The W820NB Plus is certified by Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res chip, the W820NB Plus provides up to 49 hours of non-stop
Wireless Audio, providing a high-frequency bandwidth of up to playtime, making it ideal for travel. Even if the battery runs
40kHz. Whether you prefer wired or wireless connectivity, you low, charging for just ten minutes gives up to seven hours of
can enjoy music with enhanced details, a wider sound field and music playback.
richer emotions. Available in Grey, Green, Blue, Ivory or traditional Black,
These latest headphones utilise LDAC high-definition the super soft headband and ear cushions are comfortable
codecs technology that allows for a transmission bandwidth to wear for long periods of time. The retractable headphone
of up to 990kbps, similar to a highway in wireless protocol. This arm gives a secure fit with less pressure and help prevent
ensures that high-bit-rate audio files are transmitted with great sound leakage too.
protection, retaining about three times the amount of music
detail and delivering nearly lossless, natural and full sound.
They also feature Hybrid ANC technology that can effectively
cancel up to 43dB of background noise. Ambient sound


 Plaud Note Pro
Voice transcriber
Take notes during phone calls and meetings, the easy way.

Info//
Plaud Inc
[Link]
£169, $189, 189 €
Compatibility: iOS 14.0 or
later

P
laud Note Pro is a professional voice Using “Ask Plaud,” you can unlock deeper
transcriber, delivering high-accuracy insights with this interactive AI. Ask questions,
transcription in 112 languages with auto extract key points, draft emails and get next-step
speaker labels. Powered by top AI models and suggestions, all grounded in your original audio for
thousands of templates, Note Pro instantly creates reliable, ready-to-use answers. Its AI automatically
structured summaries, mind maps, To-Do lists and switches between call and meeting modes, while
proposals tailored to your role and industry. The directional audio and real-time spatial awareness
device can capture audio, type notes, add images minimise noise to capture voices with crystal clarity.
and press to highlight key moments for richer With four high-performance MEMS microphones
context. During recording, you can instantly mark key and 1 VPU microphones, Plaud Note Pro captures
moments with a single button press. Simultaneously every acoustic detail. Enhance Mode records
enrich your audio by clear speech from up to 16.4 ft (5 m) for 30 hours,
snapping photos of while Endurance Mode delivers up to 50 hours
important documents or of continuous recording – ideal for back-to-back
typing in ideas too. meetings and all-day events.

[Link] 
 STM Goods Dux
16L Backpack
The perfect bag for work and travel?

Info//
STM Goods
[Link]
Price: £123.99, $169.99,
143,99 €
Compatibility: Notebooks
up to 15 inches, 16-inch
MacBook Pro

W
ho says all notebook bags are the same? Available
in black, blue, grey, black camo and an exciting retro
rainbow design, STM’s Goods Dux 16L Backpack is full
of fresh ideas. As well as a protective enclosure for notebooks, an
iPad sleeve and a side pocket for your water bottle, it also offers
a side panel that zips open for vertical access to the main section
of the bag – just the thing if you need a specific item and don’t
want to unpack the whole bag and find it at the bottom. There’s
also a phone holder on the strap, a passthrough so you can
position it on your suitcase’s extending handle and a bundled
accessories case for your chargers and cables.
The bag is comfortable on the shoulders, with ergonomic
dual-foam shoulder straps plus padded EVA foam back panel
with cooling airflow channels, and its zips are sturdy and strong.
A top-loading pocket gives quick and easy access
to nick-knacks you need to hand quickly, and its
water resistant shell deflects rain and spills to
keep cargo dry and clean.


 Groov-e Smart
Wi-Fi Pet Feeder
The ideal solution to pets that want feeding during the night.

Info//
groov-e
[Link]
£69.99, $77.99, 69,99 €
Compatibility: Smartphone
app available

T
he Smart Wi-Fi Pet Feeder is perfect for owners of cats and
small dogs who want reliable, hands-free feeding routines.
Ideal for dry food, users can easily schedule up to ten meals
a day via the Tuya app. A voice recording function allows users to
record a personal message, calling their pet and providing comfort
when it’s time to eat. A 4L capacity and airtight storage keeps the
food fresh and dual power options provide convenience and peace
of mind. Plus, it’s easy to clean with a removable food tray. If your
pet wakes you up at night demanding a feed, it’s your perfect way of
getting a good night’s sleep while ensuring your beloved cat or dog
doesn’t go hungry.

[Link] 
 Apple AirTag Gen 2
Item location tracker
Apple’s Find My Anything you attached an AirTag hardware has been updated.

Info//
Apple
[Link]
Price: $29.99
Compatibility:
Mac, iPhone, iPad

A
irTag Gen 2, exclusively designed for tracking via the Find My
app, offers industry-leading protections against unwanted
tracking. It’s priced the same as its predecessor: £29 for a single
AirTag and £99 for a four-pack. Free personalised engraving is available
on [Link]/uk and the Apple Store app.
Powered by Apple’s second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, the
same as in the iPhone 17 lineup, iPhone Air, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and
Apple Watch Series 11, the new AirTag makes it easier to locate items.
Precision Finding guides users to their lost items from up to 50% farther
away than before. An upgraded Bluetooth chip expands the range at
which items can be located. For the first time, users can use Precision
Finding on Apple Watch Series 9 or later, or Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later,
to find their AirTag, providing a powerful experience on the wrist.
The updated internal design makes the AirTag 50% louder, enabling
users to hear it from up to 2x farther away. Paired with its enhanced
Precision Finding capabilities and distinctive new chime, it makes it
easier to find important items, such as keys hidden between couch
cushions or a wallet as they leave the house.
The new AirTag keeps location data private and secure. It doesn’t
store location data or history and uses end-to-end encryption to protect
all communication with the Find My network, ensuring only the device
owner can access its location data. No one, including Apple, knows
the identity or location of any device that helped find it. Designed
exclusively for tracking objects, the new AirTag includes industry-first
protections against unwanted tracking, such as cross-platform alerts
and unique Bluetooth identifiers that change frequently.
The new AirTag maintains the same form factor as the original and is
compatible with all existing AirTag accessories, including the FineWoven
Key Ring, which is made from 68% recycled content and available in five
beautiful colours.


 Woksyis Retro
Docking station
Take the present back to the past.

Info//
Woksyis
[Link]
£169.99, $169.99, 169,99 €
Compatibility: Mac mini M4
and M4 Pro

W
okyis M5 is a retro-inspired docking station There’s also 1×10 Gbps USB-C port, 2x1 Gbps USB-A
designed for the Mac mini M4/M4 Pro. It ports, 1x3.5mm headphone jack (supporting again
features a five-inch HD display, and up to 32-bit audio input and output, up to 8K-384K). Both
8TB of storage via M.2 NVMe SSD. In total it adds 13 versions also have a USB-C host port and a USB-C
ports to your Mac mini M4 or M4 Pro, all while looking 5V/3A or PD power input.
like a mini sized original Macintosh. It’s available in
both a 10Gbps and 80Gbps version.
The 10Gbps version is equipped with 2x10 Gbps
USB-A ports, 1x10 Gbps USB-C port, SD4.0 and micro
SD4.0 card readers on the front panel. And then on
the back panel, there is another 2x10 Gbps USB-A
ports, a HDMI input, 1x3.5mm headphone jack
(supporting both 32 bit audio input and output, up
to 8K-384K), a USB-C host port, a USB-C 5V/3A power
input and a 10Gbps M.2 SSD enclosure up to 8TB. The
M5 80Gbps version offers the same ports on the front,
the 2x10 Gbps USB-A ports, 1x10 Gbps USB-C ports,
SD4.0 and micro SD4.0 card readers. There’s also an
80Gbps M.2 SSD enclosure which is compatible with
Thunderbolt 4/5 and it can support up to 8TB SSD,
1x8K@60Hz DisplayPort 2.1 port which allows up to
8K extension of monitor for your Mac mini M4/M4 Pro.

[Link] 
 reMarkable Paper Pro Move
Paper note tablet
A groundbreaking paper tablet made for work on the go.

Info//
reMarkable
[Link]
From £399, $449, 479 €
Compatibility: macOS 12.0 or
later

H
ere at AppleUser, we love reMarkable’s range of digital notepads. reMarkable Paper Pro Move is built from sleek anodised aluminium
They really do feel like writing on paper. But for some, their and textured glass, so users can look the part wherever they go. With up
physical size makes them prohibitive. Enter, the reMarkable Paper to two weeks of battery life and three days of power in just ten minutes
Pro Move. The 7.3-inch digital notebook slips easily into a bag or jacket of recharging, there’s no need to hunt for a socket. Made of more than
pocket. 50% recycled metals and easier to refurbish and repair, it’s reMarkable’s
Existing ways of capturing ideas on the go all have their drawbacks. most sustainable paper tablet yet.
Paper is hard to organise, tricky to share and easy to lose. Balancing Built-in templates, including grids, lines, and planners, make it
laptops on knees can be uncomfortable and when meeting someone, simple to jot down notes over coffee. Need more room to write? Just
the big screen gets in the way of collaboration. And on our phones, turn reMarkable Paper Pro Move sideways, and the display rotates
our attention can be hijacked by endless scrolling and social media. automatically. Notes can be converted into text with a tap and sent by
After listening closely to users, reMarkable learned that many wanted email directly from the device.
the same distraction-free experience of its other paper tablets, just in a
smaller size. The idea? For working professionals to bring their workspace
with them and do their best thinking — wherever they go.

On your Markers...
The 7.3-inch colour display, combined with reMarkable’s custom-
developed Markers, delivers the best digital writing experience
available. The digital ink appears virtually instantly, and every pen
stroke has just the right amount of friction, so it feels like writing on
paper. Unlike other devices, the display reflects natural light without
causing eye strain. The adjustable reading light softly illuminates the
display, which is great for reviewing work on a morning commute or
backstage before a keynote.


 FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro Router
The ideal router for those who want to future-proof their Internet

Info//
FRITZ! GmbH
[Link]
£TBA, 309 € (not sold in USA)
Compatibility: DSL and fibre
optic Internet

T
hanks to integrated modems, the FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro can be WAN port for connecting to a fibre optic modem, as well as four 1 Gbit/s
used with both fibre optic and DSL connections and fibre optic LAN ports. The high-end model also offers huge flexibility in the smart
cables. Therefore, if you want to upgrade your router but are also home. Thanks to support for Zigbee, DECT ULE and, in the future, Matter,
thinking of making the switch from traditional copper telephone lines to devices from other manufacturers can be integrated into the smart
a fibre optic connection, it’s perfect. You can use it with your current DSL home in addition to the smart products from FRITZ! Together with a
connection, and continue to use it when you make the upgrade. comprehensive telephone system and integrated answering machines,
The German router achieves top speeds of up to 2.5 Gbit/s on fibre firewall, guest Wi-Fi, parental controls and more, the FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro
optics and up to 300 Mbit/s on DSL connections. To ensure that wireless is the ultimate all-rounder in the digital home of private users as well as
browsing, streaming, gaming and more continue to run quickly and for small offices and branches.
smoothly in the future, the new FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro offers very powerful The router also scores points with its improved VPN performance.
tri-band Mesh including 6 GHz, the new third frequency band for use in VPN connections via IPsec are around twice as fast as with previous
Wi-Fi. The new FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro supports the current Wi-Fi 6 wireless models, while an increase of up to 20 percent can be achieved with
standard at 2.4 GHz as well as next-generation Wi-Fi 7 at 5 and 6 GHz, WireGuard. Thanks to its powerful hardware with a multi-core processor,
with improvements in latency, speed and throughput. the FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro offers outstanding performance and speed with
energy-efficient use and is also well equipped for future updates thanks
For a smarter smart home to its high storage capacity. The FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro not only offers users
Up to 18.5 Gbit/s can be achieved via a total of 12 antennas. In addition maximum performance and speed on a fibre optic or DSL connection,
to this Wi-Fi power, the FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro also impresses with its wired but also a range of features that meet future requirements for energy
networking. It has a 2.5 Gbit/s LAN port, which can also be used as a efficiency, networking options and Smart Home integration.

[Link] 
 ESET HOME Security
For peace of mind in an age of digital crime

Info//
ESET, spol. s r.o.
[Link]
From £23.44, $49.99, 49,98 €
Compatibility: Windows,
macOS, Android, and iOS

E
SET has upgraded both its HOME Security and its small office/home
office offering, ESET Small Business Security. The new releases make
ESET’s award-winning Ransomware Remediation feature available
to home and office users. ESET Ransomware Remediation seamlessly
creates encrypted backups, allowing you to detect, block and recover from
ransomware attacks with minimal disruption.
Recognising scams as a global threat that can harm virtually anyone,
anywhere, at any time, ESET now delivers enhanced scam protection,
addressing attacks vectoring from all types of sources, including SMS,
email, phone calls, URLs, QR codes, malicious files and more. ESET also
launched advanced functionalities within existing features, including
Microphone Monitor and Website Security Inspector.
This launch expands the availability of ESET VPN to ESET HOME
Security Premium users. The updated ESET HOME security management
platform simplifies security management, making it easier for home
admins to protect their families, and small business owners to observe
exactly who and what are protected, and to distribute security apps with a
consistent, simplified experience.

Home improvements
Ransomware remediation was originally developed for large businesses.
The feature minimises the impact of ransomware attacks. Once a potential
ransomware threat is identified by ESET Ransomware Shield, ESET
Ransomware Remediation immediately creates backups of affected files, and
after the threat is mitigated, it restores the files, effectively reverting the system
to its previous state.
For enhanced browser security, New Website Security Inspector adds an
extra layer of protection against phishing, scams and malicious websites. This
feature scans the rendered HTML in the browser to detect malicious content
that can’t be detected on the network level and by URLs blacklist.


On the Mac...
For Mac users, macOS 26 Tahoe is now supported, so you can enjoy
ESET Cyber Security on the latest version of macOS. HTTPS and HTTP/3
support improves overall end-user protection when online too. Finally,
Device Control monitors and manages external devices connected to the
Mac. It helps protect against malware and unauthorised transfers of data
by restricting access to specific device types or even individual devices.
ESET HOME Security and ESET Small Business Security are available
across all major operating systems—Windows, macOS, Android, and
iOS – and cover all typical smart home devices. The updated offerings are
designed to address the evolving threat landscape with special attention
to prevention, ensuring a best-in-class user experience because truly
effective cybersecurity should be easy to set up and administer.

Three levels of protection are avaiable when you sign up via the ESET website and there
are business options too depending on your budget and specific needs.

[Link] 
 SoundSource 6
Take your Mac’s audio management to the next level.

Info//
Rogue Amoeba
[Link]
$49
Compatibility: macOS 15
or later

R
ogue Amoeba’s SoundSource is an essential louder or softer than others, and annoying apps
audio utility, offering three core functions can be muted entirely. Output redirectors make
useful to any Mac user. First, it provides the it possible to send audio from individual apps to
ability to control audio coming from individual different audio devices, including AirPlay hardware.
applications. Next, the quality of any audio can Play individual apps like Spotify through a high-
be improved using audio effects both simple and quality audio output, while other audio is heard via
complex. Finally, it offers instant access to all the the Mac’s built-in speakers.
settings for the Mac's audio devices. SoundSource
provides truly powerful audio control, from a globally Sensational streaming
available menu bar app. Even casual music streamers will appreciate the great
SoundSource’s per-app audio controls provide sound made possible with SoundSource’s audio
power and customizsation that’s otherwise effects support. The powerful built-in ‘Magic Boost’
impossible. Individual apps can be made to play button gives richer, fuller sound on even the tiniest


 Control everything, everywhere
all at once!

MacBook speakers, while the renowned ten-band Lagutin equaliser the Audio Devices window. Podcasters and video callers alike can
includes presets to bump up the bass, enhance vocals and even make a system-wide ‘cough’ button to mute the mic. Just assign
get the best sound from AirPods. Audiophiles can go even deeper, a Toggle Mute keyboard shortcut, then press it to instantly mute,
with advanced audio adjustment powered by macOS’s collection of and multi-channel processing is fully supported for all common
Audio Unit effects, as well as third-party plugins. channel configurations. Super Volume Keys can control volume
SoundSource also gives users full control of audio devices, across all channels of a device, and effects that support multi-
all in one place. Adjust all the settings for the audio devices the channel configs are fully functional.
Mac is using for Input, Output and even Sound Effects right from After a few weeks with SoundSource, you’ll wonder how you ever
the menu bar. For even more control, the Audio Devices window did without it. It’s the complete management solution for Mac audio.
provides access to a wealth of settings.

What’s new?
SoundSource 6 offers a wealth of new features. The built-
in Headphone EQ effect can now be applied to specific
applications, in addition to the system’s default output. You
can use the Preferred Device Order control in the Audio Devices
window, to ensure that when one device disappears, the next
one used is exactly what you want, and a new built-in Balance
& Pan effect makes it possible to adjust the relative volumes of
the left and right channels from any app (Balance), or direct all
audio to the left or right channels (Pan).
When Bluetooth devices like AirPods are used for input,
output audio quality is unfortunately diminished. Get much
better sound quality by adjusting their mode to Output Only in

Create a profile for Home, Work

or other locations to keep things
separate but sounding perfect.

Control your audio devices across

your house and even create groups to
control specific rooms or even each
level from basement to attic!

[Link] 
 Lara’s luscious reboot finally comes to mobile devices

Info//
Feral Interactive
[Link]
£12.99, $19.99, 15,99 €
Compatibility: iOS/iPadOS
18 and a device with an
A12 Bionic chip or later

T
omb Raider, the 2013 game that rebooted becomes a perilous journey to unravel the island’s
Lara Croft’s famous franchise, is coming to mysteries. Initially armed with nothing but her
iOS and iPadOS on 12th February, 2026. The instincts, Lara must quickly learn how to overcome
opening chapter in Crystal Dynamics’ celebrated Yamatai’s devious traps and murderous inhabitants
‘Survivor Trilogy’, this release is the first fully-fledged to escape its relentless hold.
modern Tomb Raider console game to grace
mobile screens. Origin story
When a young Lara Croft is shipwrecked on a Tomb Raider for iOS offers the full origin story of
forgotten island during her first archaeological Lara Croft, complete with every testing puzzle and
expedition, her intense fight for survival soon intense firefight from the original console version

A fully ported version of the console game means this looks and plays just as it should. Amazing.


of the game. The mobile release includes the full well as keyboard & mouse support on iPadOS, The graphics look superb but are also
suite of weapons and skills to empower Lara’s while gyroscopic motion aiming is also available customisable for performance for
your device should feel the need.
quest, as well as 12 DLC packs that offer extra on supported devices. With excellent visuals and
upgrades, outfits and a bonus Challenge Tomb at great performance, as well as optimisation presets
no extra charge. allowing players to prioritise improved performance
Expertly optimised for a wide range of or higher fidelity graphics, Tomb Raider is set to be a
phones and tablets, Tomb Raider features a fully landmark mobile game release.
customisable touchscreen interface that enables If you’re reading this before the game’s 12th
players to mix puzzle-solving and intense combat February release date, you can preorder on the
with ease. Gamepad support is also included, as App Store.

Plenty of weapons options and in-game upgrades for Lara but the trademark pistols, bow and arrows are still the key choices.

[Link] 
 He’s the ultimate assassin, and he’s gone rogue...

Info//
Feral Interactive
[Link].
com
£9.99, $14.99, 12,49 €
Compatibility: iOS/
iPadOS 18 and a device
with an A12 Bionic chip
or later

U
ncertain loyalties and a fresh list of targets 47’s highly attuned Instinct Mode and slip past
await as Agent 47 returns to Apple’s mobile guards with an array of cunning disguises. When the
devices. Across 20 missions, Hitman: time is right, they can strike with a range of melee
Absolution sees the ultimate assassin take on the weapons and handy objects or use Point Shooting to
Agency he once served, eliminating them one by one eliminate multiple enemies in a cinematic heartbeat.
as he fights to protect a teenage girl harbouring a Hitman: Absolution comes to the iPhone and
dark secret. iPad with fully customisable touch controls, as well
Featuring all the hallmarks of IOI’s enduring as gamepad and keyboard and mouse support
HITMAN franchise, Absolution offers players the further enhanced with customisable auto-aim
freedom to find and execute their marks in living and dynamic on-screen prompts. The game also
environments, carefully designed to reward supports a wide range of mobile devices, with
exploration and experimentation. Players can graphical presets tailored to each. This is mobile
identify and track targets from the shadows using gaming without compromise.

Control is key… Hitman is compatible with gamepad, keyboard & mouse plus touch controls.


 Wonderful wargaming from 200 years ago

Info//
T
otal War: NAPOLEON, Creative Assembly’s players to lead Great Britain, Austria, Prussia or
strategy classic, is now available on Apple Russia. In addition, The Peninsular Campaign DLC
Feral Interactive
mobile devices. Featuring Total War’s is included in the mobile release as standard, and
[Link]
celebrated blend of turn-based grand strategy and challenges players to retake Iberia. Also included are
£9.99, $14.99, 12.49 €
massive real-time battles, iPhone and iPad gamers Napoleon’s Battles, recreating seismic moments in
Compatibility: iOS/iPadOS
take command as the epoch-shaping military genius his campaigns, from Austerlitz to Waterloo. Featuring
18 or later
Napoleon Bonaparte or lead the great European new particle effects and the advanced weaponry of
powers arrayed against him. the early 19th century, NAPOLEON promises to be
Total War: NAPOLEON marches to the turn the most explosive and visually impressive strategy
of the 19th century and the turbulent decades game on phones and tablets.
beyond that redrew the map of Europe. A story- Total War: NAPOLEON makes the transition to
rich campaign recounts Napoleon’s career, from mobile with a customised user interface and new
humble beginnings in Corsica, through early Help systems. Refined touch controls and quality-
successes in Italy and Egypt, to pan-European of-life improvements offer complete control of
campaigns to unite the continent under French diplomatic relations and battlefield tactics, while full
rule. For those who dare to stand against keyboard and mouse support is also available on
Napoleon, the Campaigns of the Coalition allows iPadOS. Download it now on the App Store.

No matter if on iPad or iPhone, the experience is very impressive.

[Link] 
 Pull on those shoulder pads and put a bucket on your head...

Info//
New Star Games
[Link]
Free for Apple Arcade
subscribers
Compatibility: iOS/
iPadOS 13 or later

A
vailable now through Apple Arcade, NFL Retro Bowl ’26 features
all the real teams and players from the NFL faithfully reproduced
in a glorious retro pixel-art style! Start your NFL coaching career by
assembling your roster from a choice of over 2,000 real-life NFL & NFLPA
players. Take on the real teams from the AFC and NFC, manage your roster,
handle the press and play the key moments on the field to take your team to
the Super Bowl and write your name into the Hall of Fame.
New to this year’s edition, the NFL Retro Bowl Championship
Leaderboard offers you the chance to play your favourite team’s weekly
games from the NFL. Win big and set the highest score you can, drive your
team up the leaderboard and keep them there until the end of the regular
season. Can you and your fellow fans take your team to NFL Retro Bowl
Championship glory?

Current teams and players but in a fully retro feel game

where two worlds litterally collide as you tackle your way
to glory!


 Duunnn dunnn... duuuunnnn duun... duuunnnnnnnn dun dun dun dun dun dun
dun dun dun dun dunnnnnnnnnnn dunnnn

Info//
L
imited Run Games, a top publisher of digital and physical video games,
has teamed up with Universal Products & Experiences to announce
Limited Run
that two fantastic physical versions of the 1987 Nintendo Entertainment
[Link]
System game, Jaws is available in 2026 for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5.
Price: $99.99
Yes, the terrifying great white shark is back on your screens, marking the 50th
Compatibility: PlayStation 5,
anniversary of the Universal Pictures and Steven Spielberg blockbuster film,
Nintendo Switch
and this time, there is no escape!
In this new version of the 1987 classic NES game Jaws, brave seafaring
heroes who are brave enough to face this pixelated danger will be able to
steer a boat around the ocean, encountering all sorts of terrifying underwater
creatures on their mission to defeat the iconic great white. Feel the tension
rise as your receiver beeps, letting you know that danger is coming. Upgrade
your ship to give yourself a fighting chance against the dangers of the deep
and discover other vessels with much better firepower to ensure you finish
the job. Just when you thought it was safe to grab your joypad, dive into some
toothy retro gaming reimagined.

DO YOU NEED A BIGGER BOX?

• Jaws is available in two physical editions, including:
• Jaws: Retro Edition (PS5/Switch) - $34.99
• Physical copy of the game
• 8-Page Booklet

Jaws: The Bigger Boat Edition (PS5/Switch) - $99.99

• Physical copy of the game
• Everything included in the Retro Edition of the game
• NES-inspired box
• Game Soundtrack on a physically pressed CD
• Pin badge Jaws keychain
• Pixelated Shark Lamp
Under water nobody can hear you scream… except for sharks.

[Link] 
 Don’t miss out on more great
˃˔ˣ˘˥˖˨˧ʿ˧˗magazines
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