17 applications for the new Linux user

The Free Geekery weblog lists 17 applications that are a “must have” for the new linux user. One of the most difficult tasks for a new linux user is finding quality appliations. Unlike their Mac and Windows counterparts, Linux applications rarely are publicized which makes for a trying task when attempting to discover new applicaitons. Free Geekery does a good job explaining the applicaiton and its use. Included in the list are some of my favorites: AllTray, AmaroK, Automatix, CheckGmail, Beagle. THe tutorial is aimed at Ubuntu users, however, the applications can be extended to any Linux distro.

Since Ubuntu comes packaged with all the open source apps that an average user might need (Firefox 2.0, Open Office, Rhythmbox, etc.), it might seem crazy to add more “clutter” to the situation. But what happens if you’d rather use the Opera browser rather than Firefox? Or, perhaps you’d like to add more sound and video apps to your repertoire beyond Rhythmbox. Since the server and desktop versions of Ubuntu support the GNOME 2.18 desktop environment, literally hundreds of additional applications are appropriate for Ubuntu users. But the following free software apps, listed in alphabetical order, provide the new Ubuntu desktop user with a logical beginning to an enhanced open source experience.

17 applications for the new Linux user – [Free Geekery]