Ubuntu Desktop

Learn how to get the best performance from your Dell system installed with Ubuntu. Also learn how to troubleshoot and diagnose any issues that you may come across during the use of this operating system.

Diagnostics

• Dell Computers come with diagnostic tests and indicators that are built into the various systems hardware. These can show from audible beeps and visible blinking LEDs to a partition in the BIOS which contains a suite of self-test checks.
• Built in self-test software:
  • How to Link to the Dell Diagnostic partition from your Ubuntu Linux operating system on a Dell PC
  • Resolve Hardware Issues With Built-in and Online Diagnostics (ePSA or PSA Error Codes)
• Note that the Dell Online Diagnostics do not currently support Linux Operating Systems (including Ubuntu).

Troubleshooting

• The guides below cover basic troubleshooting steps for common problems, using Ubuntu on Desktop and Mobile devices:
  • Troubleshooting Dell Hardware with Ubuntu on your Dell Desktop or Notebook PC
  • How to troubleshoot Wireless network issues in Ubuntu Linux on your Dell PC
  • Introduction to basic troubleshooting commands within Ubuntu Linux

How To and General Info

• Dell supplies How To and reference guides to help Ubuntu users to handle certain common situations.
• How To Guides:
  • Configure Ubuntu on your Dell PC
  • How to add/remove programs and applications on a Dell PC using the Ubuntu Operating System
  • How to update the Dell BIOS in Linux and Ubuntu Environments
  • How to configure and use a 3G (Mobile Broadband) Modem on a Dell PC using the Ubuntu operating system
  • How to configure multiple displays on a Dell PC using the Ubuntu operating system
  • How to configure an existing email account using Ubuntu on your Dell PC
  • How do I install the latest version of Skype on my Ubuntu System?
  • How to back up your Dell PC using the Ubuntu Linux backup utility
• Reference Material:
  • The types and definitions of Ubuntu Linux Partitions and Directories Explained
  • Ubuntu Linux terms for your Hard drive and Devices Explained
  • Using the Ubuntu Linux Terminal on your Dell PC
  • A Guide to Ubuntu Linux Terminal commands on your Dell PC
  • How to backup your Dell PC using the Ubuntu Linux backup utility
  • A Basic explanation of backup types and methods as applies to Linux and Windows Dell PCs

Download Software and Drivers

• Most of the drivers required to run Ubuntu on the Dell systems are native or installed from factory. We recommend having the latest drivers and software updates for your PC as these may include enhancements to maintain optimum performance.
  Visit the Dell Download Center page for downloading Dell applications and tools. Optional drivers and applications are available from the Ubuntu Software Center.
  Ubuntu ISO images are also available for Dell XPS, Precision, Latitude, and OptiPlex systems with Ubuntu installed from factory.

Ubuntu Support Sites

• Find other sources of information
  • www.ubuntu.com
  • askubuntu.com
  • www.canonical.com

Video
Our comprehensive videos offer step-by-step support and information to resolve your query. Videos are in English. Translated subtitles available for some languages. More videos can be found in our Video Library.