the psycho cat on an HP Mini with Ubuntu

Just Beginning
Introduction
Read this first before you try Ubuntu*

Which Ubuntu to pick?
Getting Ubuntu
Making a bootable USB of Ubuntu

Ubuntu inside Windows
Dual-boot with Windows
Install Desktop CD Ubuntu
Modest Specs

Install Software
Extra Repositories

Security in Ubuntu
Create a "browse as root" launcher*

Where's the Terminal?
Password in Terminal

Next Steps
Mount Windows
Install Proprietary Software
Install Flash
Install MP3 Playback
Finding iTunes Alternatives
Export as MP3 in Audacity
Use Wine

Beyond the Basics
Backing up Ubuntu
Upgrade Ubuntu*
Change boot menu
Mount Linux

Playing Around
KDE/Gnome Comparison
Install KDE
Install XFCE
Pure Gnome
Pure KDE
Pure XFCE
Make your own Ubuntu remix

Troubleshooting
Can't sudo
Graphical sudo
Forgot password

* Off-site link

Cheap Plugs
If you've found these tutorials useful, please consider donating a small amount to one of my favorite non-profits/charities. Every little bit helps.

You may also want to consider donating directly to the Ubuntu project.

Ubuntu is committed to Free software (free in cost and free in licensing restrictions), but in "the real world," most computer users are used to having proprietary or nonfree codecs and support software installed (to use Java, MP3s, Microsoft fonts, etc.), so Ubuntu has included an easy way to install these nonfree items. The free in the word nonfree refers to licensing restrictions, not to cost.

Go to Applications and select Ubuntu Software Center

Do a filter search for the word restricted and then click Install next to Ubuntu restricted extras.

When prompted for your password, enter it.

Wait for the software packages to download and install.

That's it!

You can find more details here (without all the screenshots).

There are also variations on Ubuntu that include proprietary/nonfree software in the default installation. One popular variation is called Linux Mint.