Course Detail

In this six-week online course, you'll master the free Linux desktop system, which can perform all of the functions you currently do with Microsoft Windows or Apple Macintosh.

We’ll start with the basics of Linux as we practice using its graphical environment to manipulate files and folders, create user accounts, and set up hardware devices. Then we’ll delve into the many free programs that come preinstalled on your Linux system, including the popular OpenOffice.org office productivity software. This exciting application allows you to read and create word documents, spreadsheets, and presentation graphics that are compatible with the Microsoft Office suite. Next, we’ll cover the Linux multimedia programs that can play, rip, and burn CDs, as well as play DVDs and video files. We’ll also discuss Linux audio-editing tools that enable you to create your own masterpieces.

After that, we’ll walk through using your Linux desktop to access the Internet. You'll see how to connect to your ISP and use your ISP to read and send messages with Linux’s e-mail software. Finally, we’ll explore keeping in touch with friends and family by using common Internet Messaging hosts, as well as how to browse your favorite Web sites with the popular Mozilla Firefox Web browser.

Get ready to discover why so many people think Linux makes their computer easier, cheaper, and more fun!