Written by sucotronic the 18 Feb 09 at 17:00.

It would be useful to add a kind of reminders that prevents the users about their files in the trash or the occupation in the hard drive. And also it could be configured with an option under the System>Preferences menu.

It would be useful to add a kind of reminders that prevents the users about their files in the trash or the occupation in the hard drive. And also it could be configured with an option under the System>Preferences menu. <img src="http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/6476/bigsizegl6.png"> <img src="http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/535/olderfilesgx9.png">

Written by snizovtsev the 18 Feb 09 at 17:43.

Add the "Trash size" option (percent or absolute value) and automatically clean oldest files from the trash to fit this limit.

Add the "Trash size" option (percent or absolute value) and automatically clean oldest files from the trash to fit this limit.

Written by vlo the 19 Feb 09 at 20:05.

The operating system should silently compress some of the files. Perhaps this could be done when the system is not being used, or before shutdown.

The files that would be compressed would be the files that have been in the trash for a certain amount of time (configurable).

The operating system should silently compress some of the files. Perhaps this could be done when the system is not being used, or before shutdown. The files that would be compressed would be the files that have been in the trash for a certain amount of time (configurable).

Written by blaxter the 19 Feb 09 at 23:41.

Like in solution #2, add a "Trash size" option but instead of automatically clean oldest files form the trash, just say "the trash is full, please clean it up" when the user try to send more files to it

Like in solution #2, add a "Trash size" option but instead of automatically clean oldest files form the trash, just say "the trash is full, please clean it up" when the user try to send more files to it

Written by rakudave the 21 Feb 09 at 20:39.

Same as #1, but with a button to empty the trash directly from the notification-bubble

Same as #1, but with a button to empty the trash directly from the notification-bubble

Written by kapipi the 21 Feb 09 at 21:17.

This solution is a response to solution #1. Solution #1 is great, except that as a default the user should not be notified about the size of trash, unless space on the partition is getting critically low.

The rationale:

- We don't want to distract the user's attention unnecessarily
- We don't want to force or lure the user to empty his trash unnecessarily.

This solution is a response to solution #1. Solution #1 is great, except that as a default the user should not be notified about the size of trash, unless space on the partition is getting critically low. The rationale: - We don't want to distract the user's attention unnecessarily - We don't want to force or lure the user to empty his trash unnecessarily.

Written by argon the 22 Feb 09 at 00:35.

The rationale of this problem is that sometimes people run out of disk space. So the notification should directly address this issue, and not just target the trash at an arbitary point, which will just lead to more annoying notifications.

Windows also does this when disk space is low...

The rationale of this problem is that sometimes people run out of disk space. So the notification should directly address this issue, and not just target the trash at an arbitary point, which will just lead to more annoying notifications. Windows also does this when disk space is low...

Written by 311005901 the 22 Feb 09 at 15:59.

A notification alerts users when the system is running low on free space.


When clicked on, users can use a widget to remove unwanted files.


(Click to see full sized image)

A notification alerts users when the system is running low on free space. <img src="http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a219/nitrousinacan/crap/panelreminder.png"> When clicked on, users can use a widget to remove unwanted files. <a href="http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/6238/cleanupwizard.png"><img src="http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/6238/cleanupwizard.th.png"></a> (Click to see full sized image)

Written by koenfloris the 25 Feb 09 at 14:00.

ubuntu begins to fragment when you've got not enough disk-space. lets say that the limit is about 20%.

when disk space is to full...
ubuntu should auto-remove unnecessary things to free it up. of course, it should ask the user the empty the trash, to prevent data-loss. but other cash-like things should get cleaned up.

ubuntu begins to fragment when you've got not enough disk-space. lets say that the limit is about 20%. when disk space is to full... ubuntu should auto-remove unnecessary things to free it up. of course, it should ask the user the empty the trash, to prevent data-loss. but other cash-like things should get cleaned up.

Written by ziroday the 27 Feb 09 at 12:07.

computer-janitor (only in jaunty) is a small utility to clear up left over packages and left over files that have no use. It could easily be extended to support emptying the trash and notifying the user when disk space is low.

computer-janitor (only in jaunty) is a small utility to clear up left over packages and left over files that have no use. It could easily be extended to support emptying the trash and notifying the user when disk space is low.

Written by Menti the 7 Mar 09 at 12:23.

As proposed in idea #14699. Desktop icons in general are static and do not provide any useful information. Trashcan icon is slightly dinamic: it has an empty state and a full state. Let the icon change to show how much trash there is. There could be a (configurable, with a sane default) max limit to the trash size, and the desktop icon could show what percentage of that limit is already in use.

This way, we could have more information without actually adding anything to the current setup, no more clutter; only better use of an already existing and underused graphic element of the desktop.

As proposed in idea #14699. Desktop icons in general are static and do not provide any useful information. Trashcan icon is slightly dinamic: it has an empty state and a full state. Let the icon change to show how much trash there is. There could be a (configurable, with a sane default) max limit to the trash size, and the desktop icon could show what percentage of that limit is already in use. This way, we could have more information without actually adding anything to the current setup, no more clutter; only better use of an already existing and underused graphic element of the desktop.

Written by dubrict the 10 Mar 09 at 06:19.

The reason people forget is because by default, the trash icon is as tiny as can be and hiding in the corner. Placing it on the desktop instead puts it more directly in the user's conscious, reminding them to empty it while not being obtrusive or complex.

The "running low on free space" reminder is reasonable, because it would solve this problem while taking on another. There's no reason to add any complexity to the system beyond this.

The reason people forget is because by default, the trash icon is as tiny as can be and hiding in the corner. Placing it on the desktop instead puts it more directly in the user's conscious, reminding them to empty it while not being obtrusive or complex. The "running low on free space" reminder is reasonable, because it would solve this problem while taking on another. There's no reason to add any complexity to the system beyond this.

Written by MOSAM the 10 Mar 09 at 20:06.

Have the system ask you if you want to empty the trash when shutting down the as it does when unmounting disk drives.

Have the system ask you if you want to empty the trash when shutting down the as it does when unmounting disk drives.

Written by linuxrules the 12 Mar 09 at 23:28.

settings dialog _ +/- X
=============================================================
put trash icon on desktop "on/off"

Empty Trash On system Shut down "on/off/ask/auto"

Use the desktop icon to provide information "on/off"

auto-remove when disk-space is low "on/off/ask/auto"

Notification with "Delete now"-Button "on/off"

Trash with maximum size & if to delete when size limit is exceeded "on -size-/off"

Compress old files "on/off/ask/auto"

Add a configurable reminder "on/off"
|advance..|

settings dialog _ +/- X ============================================================= put trash icon on desktop "on/off" Empty Trash On system Shut down "on/off/ask/auto" Use the desktop icon to provide information "on/off" auto-remove when disk-space is low "on/off/ask/auto" Notification with "Delete now"-Button "on/off" Trash with maximum size & if to delete when size limit is exceeded "on -size-/off" Compress old files "on/off/ask/auto" Add a configurable reminder "on/off" |advance..|

Written by trustno1uk the 16 Mar 09 at 20:02.

Icons that represent valuable information at first glance can really save you some time.

Some users don’t care about emptying their thrash and also use it as another folder at times, this will remind them to empty it.



REF: http://www.kumailht.com/blog/linux/10-features-ubuntu-should-implement/

Icons that represent valuable information at first glance can really save you some time. Some users don’t care about emptying their thrash and also use it as another folder at times, this will remind them to empty it. <img src="http://petitinvention.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/stinky_trash-petitinvention.jpg" border="0" alt="trash"> REF: http://www.kumailht.com/blog/linux/10-features-ubuntu-should-implement/

Written by OrelEagle the 5 Dec 09 at 20:38.

I'm using a script to delete files permanently after 30 days spent in the trash:

find ~/.local/share/Trash/files -maxdepth 1 -ctime +30 -exec rm -r \;
find ~/.local/share/Trash/info -maxdepth 1 -ctime +30 -exec rm -r \;

This way the user doesn't have to worry about emptying the trash but still has a "second chance" in case a file was deleted by mistake.

I'm using a script to delete files permanently after 30 days spent in the trash: find ~/.local/share/Trash/files -maxdepth 1 -ctime +30 -exec rm -r \; find ~/.local/share/Trash/info -maxdepth 1 -ctime +30 -exec rm -r \; This way the user doesn't have to worry about emptying the trash but still has a "second chance" in case a file was deleted by mistake.

Written by yoda2031 the 28 Mar 11 at 17:26.

Computer Janitor already fulfils the requirement to recover disk space from files which are temporary/cached/etc.

Squashfs more-or-less fulfils the requirement to conserve space, but should be provided as an option on installation ("compress home directory" and "compress system directory" options)

A utility to automatically compress/remove components which have not been used for more than 30 days.

A utility which lists your installed applications in order of size and last used date. Allows the user to remove the bigger, unused packages.

A utility which allows you to "reorganise" your partitioning scheme.

Where applicable, these solutions should be accessible under an umbrella utility, possibly as an extension to the existing Disk Utility, or as a stand-alone utility.

Computer Janitor already fulfils the requirement to recover disk space from files which are temporary/cached/etc. Squashfs more-or-less fulfils the requirement to conserve space, but should be provided as an option on installation ("compress home directory" and "compress system directory" options) A utility to automatically compress/remove components which have not been used for more than 30 days. A utility which lists your installed applications in order of size and last used date. Allows the user to remove the bigger, unused packages. A utility which allows you to "reorganise" your partitioning scheme. Where applicable, these solutions should be accessible under an umbrella utility, possibly as an extension to the existing Disk Utility, or as a stand-alone utility.

Written by strattonbrazil the 14 Jul 08 at 22:28.

Ubuntu Brainstorm was updated in January 2009. Since the idea #11133 was submitted before this update, its rationale and solution are not separated. Please vote accordingly, and if you have the necessary rights, please separate the rationale from the solution. Thanks!

<i>Ubuntu Brainstorm was updated in January 2009. Since the idea #11133 was submitted before this update, its rationale and solution are not separated. Please vote accordingly, and if you have the necessary rights, please separate the rationale from the solution.</i><br /> Thanks!

Written by jarko_ the 22 Feb 09 at 12:46.

Like in some other systems, associate key combination to bring up 'recovery screen' or similary named one.

This window doesn't have to be normal GTK-window, but something from the upper level, like GDM (or xorg if going for extreme) created 'recovery screen/task manager'. This should ensure that no window or full screen application could hide or block the 'recovery screen'.

This recovery screen could have options to kill programs, log out, shutdown and lock computer etc.

Like in some other systems, associate key combination to bring up 'recovery screen' or similary named one. This window doesn't have to be normal GTK-window, but something from the upper level, like GDM (or xorg if going for extreme) created 'recovery screen/task manager'. This should ensure that no window or full screen application could hide or block the 'recovery screen'. This recovery screen could have options to kill programs, log out, shutdown and lock computer etc.

Written by Magnes the 23 Feb 09 at 07:46.

If there is an application that uses all the resources allow closing it (if it uses all the memory) or make it nicer (if it uses all the CPU) by one click in System Monitor.

If there is an application that uses all the resources allow closing it (if it uses all the memory) or make it nicer (if it uses all the CPU) by one click in System Monitor.

Written by jamessnell the 26 Feb 09 at 20:37.

== Graphical ==
If a separate X session configured entirely to show a System Monitor could be very well insulated from buggy applications.

In those cases where a game causes you to change video modes and then screws up, you'll still have a graceful way to touch the System Monitor.

== Command-Line ==
An ncurses interface (like that of "aptitude") for the command line would also be awesome for those cases when the entire Xorg system ignores you. This would help when the keyboard is being ignored as it'd be fast to pull up over ssh.


Yes this is could basically be a wrapper interface to ps.

== Graphical == If a separate X session configured entirely to show a System Monitor could be very well insulated from buggy applications. In those cases where a game causes you to change video modes and then screws up, you'll still have a graceful way to touch the System Monitor. == Command-Line == An ncurses interface (like that of "aptitude") for the command line would also be awesome for those cases when the entire Xorg system ignores you. This would help when the keyboard is being ignored as it'd be fast to pull up over ssh. Yes this is could basically be a wrapper interface to ps.

Written by zooounds the 3 Mar 09 at 11:15.

It rest in a tty until needed and can be used to kill application even if X is totaly broken.

It rest in a tty until needed and can be used to kill application even if X is totaly broken.

Written by cousteau the 5 Mar 09 at 17:27.

Ctrl+Alt+Del opens the Logout dialog (at least on Hardy). So it would be nice to add an "Open System Monitor" option to it.

Ctrl+Alt+Del opens the Logout dialog (at least on Hardy). So it would be nice to add an "Open System Monitor" option to it.

Written by jackmcslay the 7 Mar 09 at 14:57.

This is a continuation of #2. We should get xkill and gnome-system-monitor among the available action options on
System>Preferences>Keyboard shortcuts

so, even if Ctrl+Alt+Del remains as "logout" shortcut, the option of binding it to Ctrl+Alt+Del remains available

This is a continuation of #2. We should get xkill and gnome-system-monitor among the available action options on System>Preferences>Keyboard shortcuts so, even if Ctrl+Alt+Del remains as "logout" shortcut, the option of binding it to Ctrl+Alt+Del remains available

Written by Tom Mann the 12 Mar 09 at 20:47.

In KDE and XFCE, if you hit CTRL-ALT-ESC, your cursor turns into an X (or a skull and crossbones) and clicking any app (it doesn't have to be stuck) kills it.

I still don't get why it disappeared from Ubuntu's Gnome Desktop (I'm not sure if this happens on any other distros Gnome desktop)

In KDE and XFCE, if you hit CTRL-ALT-ESC, your cursor turns into an X (or a skull and crossbones) and clicking any app (it doesn't have to be stuck) kills it. I still don't get why it disappeared from Ubuntu's Gnome Desktop (I'm not sure if this happens on any other distros Gnome desktop)

Written by quartz the 20 Mar 09 at 17:12.

The system monitor window needs to be responsive, not just there.

Just bringing up system monitor (or a new manager if necessary) is not enough is the CPU is totally taken, if it comes up, any process(es) that might be hogging resources should be reniced to a slightly lower priority and the system monitor process should be started fairly high.

(A good question is what to do if the problem is with X itself, since renicing it might slow down the system monitor too)

The system monitor window needs to be responsive, not just there. Just bringing up system monitor (or a new manager if necessary) is not enough is the CPU is totally taken, if it comes up, any process(es) that might be hogging resources should be reniced to a slightly lower priority and the system monitor process should be started fairly high. (A good question is what to do if the problem is with X itself, since renicing it might slow down the system monitor too)

Written by Craig73 the 21 Mar 09 at 14:28.

Capture CTRL+ALT+DEL (or perhaps the second CTRL+ALT+DEL for just "frozen systems") at the kernel level, which opens a graphical task manager (logoff / process manager / whatever) which draws directly to the screen (bypassing X which may be frozen)

To implement this - it would write to the framebuffer, and would likely require KMS and DRI2. [Ideally it would capture the current screen in the framebuffer, and draw the dialog on top, for a integrated feeling].

Then have it fall back to VGA text only if it can't grab a graphical framebuffer (things are really hurting)

My intent is to handle cases such as X being frozen, or in a full screen game, etc.

Capture CTRL+ALT+DEL (or perhaps the second CTRL+ALT+DEL for just "frozen systems") at the kernel level, which opens a graphical task manager (logoff / process manager / whatever) which draws directly to the screen (bypassing X which may be frozen) To implement this - it would write to the framebuffer, and would likely require KMS and DRI2. [Ideally it would capture the current screen in the framebuffer, and draw the dialog on top, for a integrated feeling]. Then have it fall back to VGA text only if it can't grab a graphical framebuffer (things are really hurting) My intent is to handle cases such as X being frozen, or in a full screen game, etc.

Written by qwerty800 the 11 Jun 09 at 21:17.

It would be really nice to have a shortcut like Alt+SysRq+X, that automatically kill the focused application. Using a such shortcut would avoid the inconvenience of passing trough the task manager, nor restart the whole X server and to work with the full screen programs! Having a 16:10 monitor often causes me to get stuck with unsupported resolutions. When that happens, I have to restart my whole X server and THAT'S annoying!

Plus, "X" is easy to remember, because:
*It's not currently used.
*It can refer to Xkill
*It can refer to Xorg
*It can refer to the Window decoration (X=Close)!

It would be really nice to have a shortcut like Alt+SysRq+X, that automatically kill the focused application. Using a such shortcut would avoid the inconvenience of passing trough the task manager, nor restart the whole X server and to work with the full screen programs! Having a 16:10 monitor often causes me to get stuck with unsupported resolutions. When that happens, I have to restart my whole X server and THAT'S annoying! Plus, "X" is easy to remember, because: *It's not currently used. *It can refer to Xkill *It can refer to Xorg *It can refer to the Window decoration (X=Close)!

Written by Shnatsel the 25 Jul 09 at 10:09.

Xfce did so, and if something hangs, it's easy to kill it. GNOME has a panel applet for such purposes, but if a fullscreen game hangs, it's useless.

Xfce did so, and if something hangs, it's easy to kill it. GNOME has a panel applet for such purposes, but if a fullscreen game hangs, it's useless.

Written by viva.amego the 5 Mar 10 at 03:37.

its good idea and there is an easy solution for now


right click (system > administration > system monitor)
select (add this launcher to panel)
right click (system monitor "in panel")
select (properties )
copy ( command )

run (system > preference > keyboard shortcuts)
click ( add)

name -> system monitor
command -> right click( paste)

click (apply)

and you had shourtcut

its good idea and there is an easy solution for now right click (system > administration > system monitor) select (add this launcher to panel) right click (system monitor "in panel") select (properties ) copy ( command ) run (system > preference > keyboard shortcuts) click ( add) name -> system monitor command -> right click( paste) click (apply) and you had shourtcut

Written by Lachu the 28 Mar 10 at 17:06.

Simply start a new X Session for every application using fullscreen mode.

Simply start a new X Session for every application using fullscreen mode.

Written by trezker the 28 Mar 10 at 05:57.

Simply put, whenever an app makes a call to set a fullscreen mode the system refuses to do it.

Simply put, whenever an app makes a call to set a fullscreen mode the system refuses to do it.

Written by dottornik the 27 Apr 10 at 14:51.

Gizmod intercepts ctrl-alt-del (even when fullscreen application have focus) and execute:
wmctrl -k on (minimize all windows)
gnome-system-monitor

tested in Lucid & Karmic and work with:
-XBMC fullscreen crashed by youtube plugin
-fullscreen crashed gmameui
-fullscreen crashed flash player
-lot of crashed stuff

Instructions:

-install wmctrl
sudo apt-get install wmctrl

-disable default ctrl-alt-del shortcut from System>Preferences>Keyboard shortcuts

-install gizmod
http://gizmod.sourceforge.net/
install and set group permissions (see HOWTO - Setting Input Device Permissions - Creating a udev Rule)

Gizmod intercepts ctrl-alt-del (even when fullscreen application have focus) and execute: wmctrl -k on (minimize all windows) gnome-system-monitor tested in Lucid & Karmic and work with: -XBMC fullscreen crashed by youtube plugin -fullscreen crashed gmameui -fullscreen crashed flash player -lot of crashed stuff Instructions: -install wmctrl sudo apt-get install wmctrl -disable default ctrl-alt-del shortcut from System>Preferences>Keyboard shortcuts -install gizmod http://gizmod.sourceforge.net/ install and set group permissions (see HOWTO - Setting Input Device Permissions - Creating a udev Rule) -edit 199-Keyboard-Default.py in ~/.gizmod/gizmod/modules.d/ add this: elif Gizmo.getKeyState(GizmoKey.KEY_DELETE) >= 1 and Gizmo.getKeyState(GizmoKey.KEY_LEFTCTRL) >= 1 and Gizmo.getKeyState(GizmoKey.KEY_LEFTALT) >= 1: subprocess.Popen(["wmctrl", "-k", "on"]) subprocess.Popen(["gnome-system-monitor"]) return True This is a python script, please respect document indentation! Excuse me for my bad english... coming soon: automatic install and config script....

Written by Ikipou the 12 Mar 08 at 11:12.

Ubuntu Brainstorm was updated in January 2009. Since the idea #4354 was submitted before this update, its rationale and solution are not separated. Please vote accordingly, and if you have the necessary rights, please separate the rationale from the solution. Thanks!

<i>Ubuntu Brainstorm was updated in January 2009. Since the idea #4354 was submitted before this update, its rationale and solution are not separated. Please vote accordingly, and if you have the necessary rights, please separate the rationale from the solution.</i><br /> Thanks!

Written by MighMoS the 28 Feb 08 at 16:35.

Ubuntu should provide a repository for up to date games for games that will always need the latest version to play online.

Ubuntu should provide a repository for up to date games for games that will always need the latest version to play online.

Written by Clorox the 21 Jun 09 at 02:46.

Playdeb is a .deb repository of games for Ubuntu. It has some good games and stays up-to-date.

Site: http://www.playdeb.net/

Playdeb is a .deb repository of games for Ubuntu. It has some good games and stays up-to-date. Site: http://www.playdeb.net/

Written by ChrisB the 18 Apr 10 at 15:32.

The backports repository is official and contains up to date software. For more info see here: https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UbuntuBackports

The backports repository is official and contains up to date software. For more info see here: https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UbuntuBackports

Written by stgraber the 28 Feb 08 at 12:10.

Ubuntu Brainstorm was updated in January 2009. Since the idea #1 was submitted before this update, its rationale and solution are not separated. Please vote accordingly, and if you have the necessary rights, please separate the rationale from the solution. Thanks!

<i>Ubuntu Brainstorm was updated in January 2009. Since the idea #1 was submitted before this update, its rationale and solution are not separated. Please vote accordingly, and if you have the necessary rights, please separate the rationale from the solution.</i><br /> Thanks!

Written by mudd1 the 2 Feb 09 at 10:53.

There are already great utilities like backup2l. All that'd be needed were a good default configuration, perhaps a GUI and a couple of scripts that prevent rendering your system unusable and even unbootable after a restore: Something to fix /etc/fstab (UUIDs, I love them), /boot/grub/menu.lst (same reason) and permissions (random UIDs/GIDs on package installation), all of which is a real PITA at the moment and probably breaks every newbie's neck.

There are already great utilities like backup2l. All that'd be needed were a good default configuration, perhaps a GUI and a couple of scripts that prevent rendering your system unusable and even unbootable after a restore: Something to fix /etc/fstab (UUIDs, I love them), /boot/grub/menu.lst (same reason) and permissions (random UIDs/GIDs on package installation), all of which is a real PITA at the moment and probably breaks every newbie's neck.

Written by hurricanefloyd the 14 Mar 09 at 01:47.

rsnapshot is an excellent piece of software that (much like Apple's Time Machine) allows a user to take "snapshots" of his or her system. Using rsnapshot, a user can create snapshots at any interval he wants: hourly, weekly, monthly, every 6 hours, or anything else that cron supports. Restoring from a previous snapshot is as easy as copy and paste.

The problem is that rsnapshot is not the easiest software to use, even for people who are comfortable with the command line. I suggest that Canonical write a GUI for rsnapshot and ship it with Ubuntu.

rsnapshot: http://rsnapshot.org/

rsnapshot is an excellent piece of software that (much like Apple's Time Machine) allows a user to take "snapshots" of his or her system. Using rsnapshot, a user can create snapshots at any interval he wants: hourly, weekly, monthly, every 6 hours, or anything else that cron supports. Restoring from a previous snapshot is as easy as copy and paste. The problem is that rsnapshot is not the easiest software to use, even for people who are comfortable with the command line. I suggest that Canonical write a GUI for rsnapshot and ship it with Ubuntu. rsnapshot: http://rsnapshot.org/

Written by cheesehead the 14 Mar 09 at 19:07.

Currently in alpha, TimeVault is a snapshot backup solution integrated into Nautilus. https://wiki.ubuntu.com/TimeVault

Currently in alpha, TimeVault is a snapshot backup solution integrated into Nautilus. https://wiki.ubuntu.com/TimeVault

Written by mackstann the 15 Mar 09 at 04:20.

Duplicity is an excellent piece of backup software and allows one to easily do cheap offsite backups using Amazon's S3 service.

Duplicati ( http://code.google.com/p/duplicati/ ) seems to be the only GUI front-end for it, and it seems to be in early development.

Duplicity is an excellent piece of backup software and allows one to easily do cheap offsite backups using Amazon's S3 service. Duplicati ( http://code.google.com/p/duplicati/ ) seems to be the only GUI front-end for it, and it seems to be in early development.

Written by stefano the 16 Mar 09 at 18:42.

Dropbox is an easy [1] [2], secure [3], cheap [4] [5], based on Amazon S3 [6] and, last but not least, the nautilus client is GPL [7] !!!

and, but it's only an idea, Canonical colud be compensated for paying Dropbox Ubuntu users.

[1] http://www.getdropbox.com/tour
[2] http://www.getdropbox.com/screencast
[3] http://www.getdropbox.com/help/27
[4] http://www.getdropbox.com/help/47
[5] http://www.getdropbox.com/help/15
[6] http://www.techcrunch.com/2008/03/11/dropbox-the-online-storage-solution-weve-b een-waiting-for/
[7] http://www.getdropbox.com/downloading?os=lnx

Dropbox is an easy [1] [2], secure [3], cheap [4] [5], based on Amazon S3 [6] and, last but not least, the nautilus client is GPL [7] !!! and, but it's only an idea, Canonical colud be compensated for paying Dropbox Ubuntu users. [1] http://www.getdropbox.com/tour [2] http://www.getdropbox.com/screencast [3] http://www.getdropbox.com/help/27 [4] http://www.getdropbox.com/help/47 [5] http://www.getdropbox.com/help/15 [6] http://www.techcrunch.com/2008/03/11/dropbox-the-online-storage-solution-weve-been-waiting-for/ [7] http://www.getdropbox.com/downloading?os=lnx

Written by salih.emin the 19 Mar 09 at 01:24.

Recently a new GUI was developed for the most known and reliable backup technology :rsync

luckyBackup is an application for data back-up and synchronization powered by the rsync tool.
It is simple to use, fast (transfers over only changes made and not all data), safe (keeps your data safe by checking all declared directories before proceeding in any data manipulation ), reliable and fully customizable.
Just take a look at this screenshots:
http://luckybackup.sourceforge.net/screenshots.html

Recently a new GUI was developed for the most known and reliable backup technology :rsync luckyBackup is an application for data back-up and synchronization powered by the rsync tool. It is simple to use, fast (transfers over only changes made and not all data), safe (keeps your data safe by checking all declared directories before proceeding in any data manipulation ), reliable and fully customizable. Just take a look at this screenshots: http://luckybackup.sourceforge.net/screenshots.html

Written by FrankQuist the 20 Mar 09 at 20:11.

Many users do not make back-ups because you need multiple harddrives or more space for that, plus it takes time to set up. Backup should be as low-entry as possible. Online backup systems are a (partial) solution to that problem.

Adding a one-click-to-enable option for free (& cheap to expand) online storage through partnership with an existing vendor would be a major innovation and "selling" point. Yes, space might be limited, but just backing up certain default directories such as documents might do the trick.

Many users do not make back-ups because you need multiple harddrives or more space for that, plus it takes time to set up. Backup should be as low-entry as possible. Online backup systems are a (partial) solution to that problem. Adding a one-click-to-enable option for free (& cheap to expand) online storage through partnership with an existing vendor would be a major innovation and "selling" point. Yes, space might be limited, but just backing up certain default directories such as documents might do the trick.

Written by stefano the 20 Mar 09 at 22:17.

For local (not-online) backups btrfs 'll simplify files versioning (with native snapshot support) and data integrity (with native data chesumming).

btrfs is currently supported by 2.6.29 kernel.

as stated in the home page "Btrfs is under heavy development, and is not suitable for any uses other than benchmarking and review. The Btrfs disk format is not yet finalized, but it will only be changed if a critical bug is found and no workarounds are possible.". Ubuntu should support it as soon as possible after the 1.0 release (Q408).

this idea is complementary to #6 and #8 for local backups with rsync (with btrfs and rsync we'll not need other time-something solutions) but for online offsite backups we'll need ALSO one or more solution as #4, #5, #9.


references:
http://btrfs.wiki.kernel.org/index.php/Main_Page
http://btrfs.wiki.kernel.org/index.php/Development_timeline

For local (not-online) backups btrfs 'll simplify files versioning (with native snapshot support) and data integrity (with native data chesumming). btrfs is currently supported by 2.6.29 kernel. as stated in the home page "Btrfs is under heavy development, and is not suitable for any uses other than benchmarking and review. The Btrfs disk format is not yet finalized, but it will only be changed if a critical bug is found and no workarounds are possible.". Ubuntu should support it as soon as possible after the 1.0 release (Q408). this idea is complementary to #6 and #8 for local backups with rsync (with btrfs and rsync we'll not need other time-something solutions) but for online offsite backups we'll need ALSO one or more solution as #4, #5, #9. references: http://btrfs.wiki.kernel.org/index.php/Main_Page http://btrfs.wiki.kernel.org/index.php/Development_timeline

Written by Craig73 the 21 Mar 09 at 14:45.

OK - well we might get tired of the word plugins... but I see the request for a timevault style backup system, the underlying technology (file system or backup library), and the destination as being 3 separate part of the solution.

But whatever tool is selected - people should be able to add the options they want

1) Option to backup online. Make it easy to add different online services whether it is some random FTP site, S3, a free cloud service, or some other future solution (bit-torrent backups or replication with other machines?)

2) Allow encryption of data. Whether online or offline, we should optionally allow encryption of data. [I see opportunity here to leverage GPU or multiple core processing for stupidly high levels of encryption no?]

OK - well we might get tired of the word plugins... but I see the request for a timevault style backup system, the underlying technology (file system or backup library), and the destination as being 3 separate part of the solution. But whatever tool is selected - people should be able to add the options they want 1) Option to backup online. Make it easy to add different online services whether it is some random FTP site, S3, a free cloud service, or some other future solution (bit-torrent backups or replication with other machines?) 2) Allow encryption of data. Whether online or offline, we should optionally allow encryption of data. [I see opportunity here to leverage GPU or multiple core processing for stupidly high levels of encryption no?]

Written by daddo the 22 Mar 09 at 09:54.

Partimage for making complete images of partitions.

Partimage for making complete images of partitions.

Written by tchalvakspam the 27 Mar 09 at 23:07.

Simplebackup has pretty much everything needed:

Different schedules for the backup.
Specify which folders, files, etc are backed up.
Incremental backup.
Backups saved locally or remotely (ssh or ftp)

Simplebackup has pretty much everything needed: Different schedules for the backup. Specify which folders, files, etc are backed up. Incremental backup. Backups saved locally or remotely (ssh or ftp)

Written by chappell101 the 30 Mar 09 at 19:01.

I'm not suggesting having only Remastersys or using it for a whole system back up of your files, but as another option to go alongside one of the above for files. It would be just imaging your choice of applications and desktop appearance preferences ect. To enable very easy system restore installation exactly to your liking from a worst case scenario that the HD fail and had to be replaced. The application is also very user friendly for new users to use.

I'm not suggesting having only Remastersys or using it for a whole system back up of your files, but as another option to go alongside one of the above for files. It would be just imaging your choice of applications and desktop appearance preferences ect. To enable very easy system restore installation exactly to your liking from a worst case scenario that the HD fail and had to be replaced. The application is also very user friendly for new users to use.

Written by sajmon75 the 7 Apr 09 at 12:17.

A simple and smart solution:
http://backintime.le-web.org/

From web site:
Back In Time is a simple backup system for Linux inspired from “flyback project” and “TimeVault”. The backup is done by taking snapshots of a specified set of directories.

Currently there are two GUI available: Gnome and KDE 4 (>= 4.1).

All you have to do is configure:

* Where to save snapshot
* What directories to backup
* When backup should be done (manual, every hour, every day, every week, every month)

A simple and smart solution: http://backintime.le-web.org/ From web site: Back In Time is a simple backup system for Linux inspired from “flyback project” and “TimeVault”. The backup is done by taking snapshots of a specified set of directories. Currently there are two GUI available: Gnome and KDE 4 (>= 4.1). All you have to do is configure: * Where to save snapshot * What directories to backup * When backup should be done (manual, every hour, every day, every week, every month)

Written by mterry the 6 May 09 at 16:47.

This solution is a little self-serving, since I'm the maintainer of Déjà Dup, but I think it fits the bill. At least, my aim is to fit this bill.

A quick description: A simple GUI that makes backing up the 'right way' (off-site, regular, incremental, encrypted) easy. It's based on the command-line tool duplicity.

https://launchpad.net/deja-dup

As robbiew mentions in the comments, this was added to Ubuntu for Jaunty (go to Add/Remove and search for it). There is also a PPA supporting as far back as Hardy in the link above.

I love feedback/bug reports!

This solution is a little self-serving, since I'm the maintainer of Déjà Dup, but I think it fits the bill. At least, my aim is to fit this bill. A quick description: A simple GUI that makes backing up the 'right way' (off-site, regular, incremental, encrypted) easy. It's based on the command-line tool duplicity. https://launchpad.net/deja-dup As robbiew mentions in the comments, this was added to Ubuntu for Jaunty (go to Add/Remove and search for it). There is also a PPA supporting as far back as Hardy in the link above. I love feedback/bug reports!

Written by leandro123 the 28 Jun 09 at 20:43.

A migration tool will (1) collect the enviroment (of the user or the computer) including the personal preferences in a machine independent way (e.g. Thunderbird, Mozilla, Pidgin, config files), the personal files (home directory), the list of installed applications, and (2) send them to another computer (via ssh, rexec, ssl, etc.) or create an archive to be transferred and then imported by the same application on the new computer.

A migration tool will (1) collect the enviroment (of the user or the computer) including the personal preferences in a machine independent way (e.g. Thunderbird, Mozilla, Pidgin, config files), the personal files (home directory), the list of installed applications, and (2) send them to another computer (via ssh, rexec, ssl, etc.) or create an archive to be transferred and then imported by the same application on the new computer.

Written by Michael Safyan the 3 Jul 09 at 21:39.

I suggest we have something at the end of the Ubuntu installation process that, like at the end of the Mac OS X installation process, asks the user if he/she would like to transfer his/her files and settings from an existing copy of Ubuntu. If selected, the user can choose to transfer data via the Internet or through a USB or other physical connection. The Ubuntu install will then transfer (most of) the contents of "/home" and "/etc" (depending on what can be reasonably copied from one installation to another), and the new installation will use the apt-get markings of the previous installation to download and install the appropriate packages.

I suggest we have something at the end of the Ubuntu installation process that, like at the end of the Mac OS X installation process, asks the user if he/she would like to transfer his/her files and settings from an existing copy of Ubuntu. If selected, the user can choose to transfer data via the Internet or through a USB or other physical connection. The Ubuntu install will then transfer (most of) the contents of "/home" and "/etc" (depending on what can be reasonably copied from one installation to another), and the new installation will use the apt-get markings of the previous installation to download and install the appropriate packages.

Written by futurenow123 the 17 Oct 09 at 10:36.

If ubuntu had an integrated SYSTEM BACKUP & RESTORE (compatible with RAID) we could just clone the disk and self not lose all that precious data .

If ubuntu had an integrated SYSTEM BACKUP & RESTORE (compatible with RAID) we could just clone the disk and self not lose all that precious data .

Written by Zorba the 8 Feb 10 at 08:17.

I realized a simple program with python and Qt4 to make easier backup of files or system configuration. You are totally free to modify this code, and I hope this could be useful for many Ubuntu users. I think it could be a good idea to insert it into system settings (the system settings for KDE and the settings menu for GNOME). If someone can make a porting to GTK+ the integration with GNOME will be better.

You can download the program here: zorbaproject.uuuq.com/upload/easybackupgui.tar.gz

to test it simply open a console, enter the folder where you have unpacked the tar, and type "python easybackupgui.py": some features need sudo.

I realized a simple program with python and Qt4 to make easier backup of files or system configuration. You are totally free to modify this code, and I hope this could be useful for many Ubuntu users. I think it could be a good idea to insert it into system settings (the system settings for KDE and the settings menu for GNOME). If someone can make a porting to GTK+ the integration with GNOME will be better. You can download the program here: zorbaproject.uuuq.com/upload/easybackupgui.tar.gz to test it simply open a console, enter the folder where you have unpacked the tar, and type "python easybackupgui.py": some features need sudo. <img src="http://zorbaproject.uuuq.com/upload/easybackup.jpeg">

Written by benoyanthony the 14 Jul 10 at 10:24.

Ubuntu should come up with MS windows like user interface where in user can backup the sytem and restore point is generated which can be reloaded as and when required. This restore point will include user setting and sytem setting if required by user. Also need to give provision to copy the restore point file to any required location on HDD or any other storage media.

Ubuntu should come up with MS windows like user interface where in user can backup the sytem and restore point is generated which can be reloaded as and when required. This restore point will include user setting and sytem setting if required by user. Also need to give provision to copy the restore point file to any required location on HDD or any other storage media.

Written by natureflow the 17 Oct 10 at 13:33.

I propose a "Backup Center", where you:
* Can choose directories to backup or your whole home directory
* Can create a key to encrypt your backup, if you want
* Can print your key or copy it to an media
* Can select network destinations for your backup like Ubuntu One Storage, Secure FTP, Secure WebDAV, SMB, etc.
* Can select local storage devices like USB storages
* Can select a timetable for the backup on the local USB storage, which might require the user to periodic connect it to the computer when prompted
* and, of course: Can easily play back your backup, when your files are gone

There should be an intelligent daemon in the background which accomplishes the backup. If an backup destination is not available or full, the user should be warned.

I propose a "Backup Center", where you: * Can choose directories to backup or your whole home directory * Can create a key to encrypt your backup, if you want * Can print your key or copy it to an media * Can select network destinations for your backup like Ubuntu One Storage, Secure FTP, Secure WebDAV, SMB, etc. * Can select local storage devices like USB storages * Can select a timetable for the backup on the local USB storage, which might require the user to periodic connect it to the computer when prompted * and, of course: Can easily play back your backup, when your files are gone There should be an intelligent daemon in the background which accomplishes the backup. If an backup destination is not available or full, the user should be warned.

Written by tebibyte the 2 Jan 11 at 06:15.

Use the USB Startup Disk Creator to make a mirror image of your system. And add a mechanism to sync it or mirror it back.

Use the USB Startup Disk Creator to make a mirror image of your system. And add a mechanism to sync it or mirror it back.

Written by mitcoes the 13 Jun 11 at 10:39.

At USC an option to backup to UBUNTU ONE:

1.- The list of main repository installed/unsinstalled programs and settings
2.- The same with PPAs and PPAs programs and settings

At CD Install an option to recover your list of programs and settings and in a separate option PPAs ones where you can select all or pick some. - Sometimes PPas programs can be the cause of system inestability -

This way you can make installation profiles or make easier the reinstallation when it is necessary.

As well ubuntu would know the program change / install preferences from users with datamining of this backups.

For example I use to install VLC, Qbittorrent, Chromium, Chrome, Opera, & Thunderbird

At USC an option to backup to UBUNTU ONE: 1.- The list of main repository installed/unsinstalled programs and settings 2.- The same with PPAs and PPAs programs and settings At CD Install an option to recover your list of programs and settings and in a separate option PPAs ones where you can select all or pick some. - Sometimes PPas programs can be the cause of system inestability - This way you can make installation profiles or make easier the reinstallation when it is necessary. As well ubuntu would know the program change / install preferences from users with datamining of this backups. For example I use to install VLC, Qbittorrent, Chromium, Chrome, Opera, & Thunderbird

Written by Nanotron the 28 Feb 08 at 20:17.

I feel there should be a Tool in Nautilus and Dolphin which allows mounting Images by double Click or something similar. (This feature exists int MacOS). Or with a right click on the I think that would be a very useful Tool for every one.
A good example for this is CDemu.

I know there are some other good programs, but I think that would be the easiest way

I feel there should be a Tool in Nautilus and Dolphin which allows mounting Images by double Click or something similar. (This feature exists int MacOS). Or with a right click on the I think that would be a very useful Tool for every one. A good example for this is CDemu. I know there are some other good programs, but I think that would be the easiest way

Written by Bender2k14 the 26 Jan 09 at 04:42.

I should be able to right-click a disk image and select "Mount Image" in the context-sensitive section (just as right-clicking on a disk image provides the "Write to Disk..." option).

I should be able to right-click a disk image and select "Mount Image" in the context-sensitive section (just as right-clicking on a disk image provides the "Write to Disk..." option).

Written by cbx33 the 20 Mar 09 at 12:22.

Gisomount was created to make this an easy process. It needs a little love and attention, but offered things like md5sum browsing etc. Would make a good GSoC project.

Gisomount was created to make this an easy process. It needs a little love and attention, but offered things like md5sum browsing etc. Would make a good GSoC project.

Written by markoresko the 13 May 09 at 08:35.

I use Gmount-iso to do just that.
sudo apt-get install gmountiso

But I also think that it could be more obvious to do that etc.
Maybe Gmount-iso should be available by default, under right-click on images, like proposed.

I use Gmount-iso to do just that. sudo apt-get install gmountiso But I also think that it could be more obvious to do that etc. Maybe Gmount-iso should be available by default, under right-click on images, like proposed.

Written by mikaelstaldal the 20 Oct 09 at 12:14.

Also make it possible to mount ISO images from command line without root (sudo) access.

Also make it possible to mount ISO images from command line without root (sudo) access.

Written by dexter_greycells the 24 Oct 09 at 07:41.

When the user selects the ISO file (through the keyboard arrow keys, Tab key or a single click) in nautilus a pop-up should come up asking the user to 'Double-click' the ISO file to mount it.

When the user selects the ISO file (through the keyboard arrow keys, Tab key or a single click) in nautilus a pop-up should come up asking the user to 'Double-click' the ISO file to mount it.

Written by r0g the 28 Oct 09 at 05:09.

In the form of a python script for nautilus actions.

http://www.technicalbloke.com/iso_mount.py

I don't have time to do the unmount command too but it should be easy to adapt if you know a little python, consider that homework & pls post me a copy :)

I think it would be nice if Ubuntu came with some more useful nautilus action scripts and a nicer way of adding/removing them. At the moment getting them in and out is more of a pain than it needs to be. It ought to be as easy as Firefox (if not easier!) to install plugins, maybe then people would make more.

Roger.

In the form of a python script for nautilus actions. http://www.technicalbloke.com/iso_mount.py I don't have time to do the unmount command too but it should be easy to adapt if you know a little python, consider that homework & pls post me a copy :) I think it would be nice if Ubuntu came with some more useful nautilus action scripts and a nicer way of adding/removing them. At the moment getting them in and out is more of a pain than it needs to be. It ought to be as easy as Firefox (if not easier!) to install plugins, maybe then people would make more. Roger.

Written by Lachu the 28 Oct 09 at 11:56.

Automatically mount *.iso files dragged onto computer window/desktop/places menu.

Automatically mount *.iso files dragged onto computer window/desktop/places menu.

Written by Lachu the 10 Sep 09 at 07:55.

Ubuntu(and other distribution) should provide D-BUS based API for installer/uninstallers. You will get extra points if you integrate it with package database ;-) .

It should been integrated with PolicyKit, so administrators can give users access to install many kind of software(example software, which no needs setting suid bit and installing in /opt and don't change any files, can be installed by normal user; software which needs install in /sbin or /bin or /usr/bin, /usr/sbin should be installed only by superuser; or whatever).

This API should gives many functions, like copy executable into system directory(/bin), copy executable into superuser directory(/sbin, /usr/sbin or whatever), install user library(/usr/lib), install system-wide library(/lib), change file(delete existing file or writing own in the same place), change group of file, change owner of file, set uid bit, set guid bit, install nonexecutables(data) to /usr/share/*, installing user software(only have access to /opt), start installation.

All this action will be logged and reported. Additionally user may have simple uninstall software by system tools, because all performed operation are logged.

Installer should first call start installer function, so system show message to user like: This program will install software - continue? If user agree, DBUS returns the path, where the installer should unpack all of the files (in /tmp directory). Of course installer should register software name, etc., but it is long term task. If this is a game, it should install in /opt, so it call DBUS API to copy file from unpack folder into specify /opt folder, like copy_file_to_opt(file_name, opt_suffix).

Ubuntu(and other distribution) should provide D-BUS based API for installer/uninstallers. You will get extra points if you integrate it with package database ;-) . It should been integrated with PolicyKit, so administrators can give users access to install many kind of software(example software, which no needs setting suid bit and installing in /opt and don't change any files, can be installed by normal user; software which needs install in /sbin or /bin or /usr/bin, /usr/sbin should be installed only by superuser; or whatever). This API should gives many functions, like copy executable into system directory(/bin), copy executable into superuser directory(/sbin, /usr/sbin or whatever), install user library(/usr/lib), install system-wide library(/lib), change file(delete existing file or writing own in the same place), change group of file, change owner of file, set uid bit, set guid bit, install nonexecutables(data) to /usr/share/*, installing user software(only have access to /opt), start installation. All this action will be logged and reported. Additionally user may have simple uninstall software by system tools, because all performed operation are logged. Installer should first call start installer function, so system show message to user like: This program will install software - continue? If user agree, DBUS returns the path, where the installer should unpack all of the files (in /tmp directory). Of course installer should register software name, etc., but it is long term task. If this is a game, it should install in /opt, so it call DBUS API to copy file from unpack folder into specify /opt folder, like copy_file_to_opt(file_name, opt_suffix). I know is less secure than installing package, but is more secure than giving installer root privileges.

Written by dandart the 10 Sep 09 at 20:43.

Create a format that all distros can use and is easy to implement. Perhaps integrate into Apt/Rpm or have packages that both can understand somehow. Then we can download "Linux" package without having to worry if we want Apt or Rpm.

Create a format that all distros can use and is easy to implement. Perhaps integrate into Apt/Rpm or have packages that both can understand somehow. Then we can download "Linux" package without having to worry if we want Apt or Rpm.

Written by andruk the 11 Sep 09 at 02:12.

The reason apt needs root permissions is because the applications it installs are installed system-wide and therefore affect other users. If we allowed users to install programs to their home directory, then they could run their installed applications without affecting other users, and therefore wouldn't need to give apt root access.

This would have advantages with home users because my Applications menu wouldn't get cluttered when my daughter installs Barbietown to her home directory.

This would have advantages with sysadmins because they can run a piece of software from their home directory to test it out before installing it system-wide.

The system paths would have to be modified to look for libraries and executables in the home directory, but applications like Xournal already support this. This would also require the Applications menu to look in the user's home directory for the menus as well.

The reason apt needs root permissions is because the applications it installs are installed system-wide and therefore affect other users. If we allowed users to install programs to their home directory, then they could run their installed applications without affecting other users, and therefore wouldn't need to give apt root access. This would have advantages with home users because my Applications menu wouldn't get cluttered when my daughter installs Barbietown to her home directory. This would have advantages with sysadmins because they can run a piece of software from their home directory to test it out before installing it system-wide. The system paths would have to be modified to look for libraries and executables in the home directory, but applications like Xournal already support this. This would also require the Applications menu to look in the user's home directory for the menus as well.

Written by Lachu the 12 Sep 09 at 17:59.

Like in solution #3:
The main problem is many application have hardcoded path. There's no way to detect/guess path of specified file. Of course, we can recompile package, but it lack functionality for users.

The solution is simple. Create script scheme for setting environment, where specify files are placed. It should set PATH, LD_LIBRATY_PATH, XDG_HOME, CONFIG_PATH, etc. Script will also checking dependency and fixing it if not satisfied(also using install into directory technology).

Create also library, which allows program to read these setting/environment. Program should don't read file from /etc/program_config, but from $CONFIG_PATH/program_config.
If some environment isn't set, library should return default value.

User will have many scheme of installing application - install in: user home directory, system-wide(/), opt(/opt), custom paths.

And of course -- allow to set flag SUPPORT_PATH_SELECTING for package.

Like in solution #3: The main problem is many application have hardcoded path. There's no way to detect/guess path of specified file. Of course, we can recompile package, but it lack functionality for users. The solution is simple. Create script scheme for setting environment, where specify files are placed. It should set PATH, LD_LIBRATY_PATH, XDG_HOME, CONFIG_PATH, etc. Script will also checking dependency and fixing it if not satisfied(also using install into directory technology). Create also library, which allows program to read these setting/environment. Program should don't read file from /etc/program_config, but from $CONFIG_PATH/program_config. If some environment isn't set, library should return default value. User will have many scheme of installing application - install in: user home directory, system-wide(/), opt(/opt), custom paths. And of course -- allow to set flag SUPPORT_PATH_SELECTING for package.

Written by o-bin-lad3n the 15 Sep 09 at 20:05.

This is much like #2, but why start from scratch?
We could push for better support and integration of autopackage with apt, rpm, etc.
Also, I think the need for root-permissions itself is not the real problem, it's the need to blindly trust the file you just downloaded. Of course, there is always a way to mess with a system, when the user executes your software, but this would be way better than "sudo ./somefileijustdownloaded". Autopackage can run with user rights and install into your home directory. And you can still integrate gpg-keys with this solution.

I'm not suggesting this as THE universal package format, but as a common solution for third party/proprietary software and commercial games.

This is much like #2, but why start from scratch? We could push for better support and integration of autopackage with apt, rpm, etc. Also, I think the need for root-permissions itself is not the real problem, it's the need to blindly trust the file you just downloaded. Of course, there is always a way to mess with a system, when the user executes your software, but this would be way better than "sudo ./somefileijustdownloaded". Autopackage can run with user rights and install into your home directory. And you can still integrate gpg-keys with this solution. I'm not suggesting this as THE universal package format, but as a common solution for third party/proprietary software and commercial games.

Written by darkjavi the 21 Sep 09 at 16:47.

And what about giving to apt/aptitude/synaptic the ability to control/install any software on earth not only deb packages.
apt could run the instalation from is inside and chroot the destination of the files generated by the installer into his own folders, so we can manage all the computer software from a single interface

And what about giving to apt/aptitude/synaptic the ability to control/install any software on earth not only deb packages. apt could run the instalation from is inside and chroot the destination of the files generated by the installer into his own folders, so we can manage all the computer software from a single interface

Written by Lachu the 23 Sep 09 at 17:29.

Create sandbox for installers. It will check selinux context and when it isn't designed for installers, it will change it and fork with exec on executable file! It can't sets UID/GID bits or change any existing file, but can access to system directories.

Create sandbox for installers. It will check selinux context and when it isn't designed for installers, it will change it and fork with exec on executable file! It can't sets UID/GID bits or change any existing file, but can access to system directories.

Written by Afroman10496 the 27 Sep 09 at 02:31.

You all know how Wine works, right: importing an opensource clone of the Windows API. Now, imagine that for the Red Hat YUM/RPM compatibility. It's already opensourced, so you won't have to actually clone it. Also, you already have most of what you need because it's all Linux :>. Just offer it as a regular package and when users click on the .rpm just offer a dialog asking if they want to install it or Alien, showing all the pros and cons.

You all know how Wine works, right: importing an opensource clone of the Windows API. Now, imagine that for the Red Hat YUM/RPM compatibility. It's already opensourced, so you won't have to actually clone it. Also, you already have most of what you need because it's all Linux :>. Just offer it as a regular package and when users click on the .rpm just offer a dialog asking if they want to install it or Alien, showing all the pros and cons.

Written by ratdude747 the 27 Sep 09 at 22:01.

that would fix the rpm issue. beginners seem to get "scared" of the command line, and a gui saves time. that way, no matter whether they download an rpm or a deb, they are covered.

making it the default app for rpm would make it so a beginner wouldn't extract it by accident with archive manager. maybe you could then auto-load the resulting .deb.

that would fix the rpm issue. beginners seem to get "scared" of the command line, and a gui saves time. that way, no matter whether they download an rpm or a deb, they are covered. making it the default app for rpm would make it so a beginner wouldn't extract it by accident with archive manager. maybe you could then auto-load the resulting .deb.

Written by warlock24 the 7 Oct 09 at 17:38.

Do not multiply another installer formats, apis, ect. they only do unnecesary complicity of Ubuntu. Promote DEB packages to become unofficial standard for every linux. Develop visual tools for easy and fast creation of deb files (something like debGLADE?).

Do not multiply another installer formats, apis, ect. they only do unnecesary complicity of Ubuntu. Promote DEB packages to become unofficial standard for every linux. Develop visual tools for easy and fast creation of deb files (something like debGLADE?).

Written by Lachu the 28 Oct 09 at 07:42.

Not create new package format/packaging system, but allow to pack many packages into single archive. Structure will looks like this:

root
|
+definition&scripts
| |
| +deb
| +rpm
| .....
|
+files(must have structure like tar.gz - if in specify distribution one file must be moved into other directory, it's task for script)
|
+common definitions (name of author, license, features - installation into directory, etc.)


How distribution should handle it? In simple way. It will only unpack it into /tmp and handle as normal package(ex. run installation script for this distribution). It can also generate .deb or .rpm.

It should helps users, who like to download software from network. It can also helps game creators, because CD's can be used as repository of software.

Not create new package format/packaging system, but allow to pack many packages into single archive. Structure will looks like this: root | +definition&scripts | | | +deb | +rpm | ..... | +files(must have structure like tar.gz - if in specify distribution one file must be moved into other directory, it's task for script) | +common definitions (name of author, license, features - installation into directory, etc.) How distribution should handle it? In simple way. It will only unpack it into /tmp and handle as normal package(ex. run installation script for this distribution). It can also generate .deb or .rpm. It should helps users, who like to download software from network. It can also helps game creators, because CD's can be used as repository of software. Maybe there can occurs some problems with binaries, but most data of program is a resources, like icons, graphics, etc. Resources are shared, so there is a reason to create hybrid format.

Written by ivo000 the 1 Mar 11 at 20:11.

Integrate Autopackage package installer in Ubuntu Software Center

Integrate Autopackage package installer in Ubuntu Software Center

Written by mac9416 the 30 Jun 09 at 23:17.

Place (semi-transparent?) numerical stats over the corresponding graphs.
For example, if CPU usage is at 40%, "40%" will be pasted over the CPU usage graph on the panel.

I threw together a few concept images:

Place (semi-transparent?) numerical stats over the corresponding graphs. For example, if CPU usage is at 40%, "40%" will be pasted over the CPU usage graph on the panel. I threw together a few concept images: <a href="http://imgur.com/eJ2Lkl.png" title="Hosted by imgur.com"><img style="margin: 5px;" width="400" src="http://imgur.com/eJ2Lkl.png" alt="Hosted by imgur.com" /></a> <hr /> <a href="http://imgur.com/oKZNRl.png" title="Hosted by imgur.com"><img style="margin: 5px;" width="400" src="http://imgur.com/oKZNRl.png" alt="Hosted by imgur.com" /></a><br /> <hr /> <a href="http://imgur.com/wfFeIl.png" title="Hosted by imgur.com"><img style="margin: 5px;" width="400" src="http://imgur.com/wfFeIl.png" alt="Hosted by imgur.com" /></a>

Written by andruk the 3 Jul 09 at 20:08.

To avoid occluding the numbers or the graphs, show the numbers to the side of the graphs, and color them the same as the graph colors.

To avoid occluding the numbers or the graphs, show the numbers to the side of the graphs, and color them the same as the graph colors.

Written by fernandoc1 the 13 Jul 09 at 17:58.

There should be four options for the user:
Show the graphs only.
Show the graphs and numbers over the graphs.
Show the graphs and numbers beside the graphs.
Show the numbers only.

There should be four options for the user: Show the graphs only. Show the graphs and numbers over the graphs. Show the graphs and numbers beside the graphs. Show the numbers only.

Written by isaacthulhu the 15 Jul 09 at 13:50.

Why not reclaim all the wasted desktop real-estate which is used to display the useless desktop picture? I have never understood the need for a desktop picture. As an option I can see the end user wanting the feature but as the default condition for the desktop it makes no sense at all, takes up literally the entire screen and it does nothing. Why is there no standard system information display for the desktop when everywhere else in the OS the emphasis is on functionality first?

I think you should be able not only to constantly and without effort discern everything about your CPU usage, but you should also be able to track everything else with nothing more than a glance at your desktop.

maybe something like the ring chart in Baobab would suffice?
if individual aesthetics are an issue make it theme-able.

Why not reclaim all the wasted desktop real-estate which is used to display the useless desktop picture? I have never understood the need for a desktop picture. As an option I can see the end user wanting the feature but as the default condition for the desktop it makes no sense at all, takes up literally the entire screen and it does nothing. Why is there no standard system information display for the desktop when everywhere else in the OS the emphasis is on functionality first? I think you should be able not only to constantly and without effort discern everything about your CPU usage, but you should also be able to track everything else with nothing more than a glance at your desktop. maybe something like the ring chart in Baobab would suffice? if individual aesthetics are an issue make it theme-able.

Written by Ubuwu the 28 Feb 08 at 15:22.

Ubuntu Brainstorm was updated in January 2009. Since the idea #40 was submitted before this update, its rationale and solution are not separated. Please vote accordingly, and if you have the necessary rights, please separate the rationale from the solution. Thanks!

<i>Ubuntu Brainstorm was updated in January 2009. Since the idea #40 was submitted before this update, its rationale and solution are not separated. Please vote accordingly, and if you have the necessary rights, please separate the rationale from the solution.</i><br /> Thanks!

Written by rouge568 the 28 Feb 08 at 21:25.

I think that the best place to start would be online campaigns, especially a series of official videos on youtube and other video sites. These should focus less on technical specs and the benefits of the open-source ideal, and more on the benefits of switching from Windows while retaining the ability to preform daily tasks. This will be targeting the main bulk of computer users: Microsoft customers who want to email, type, web browse, and don't like paying for an OS. Other facets of this campaign should include spreading the word about Ubuntu to non-tech oriented, high traffic website (myspace, yahoo), getting Ubuntu back as #1 on distrowatch.com, and creating guides in layman's terms so that non tech-savvy people can understand how to preform simple tasks. For example, don't tell people to open xorg.conf; tell them to type in the terminal 'gksudo gedit /etc/X11/xorg.conf'.
Doing all of this will require a re-mobilization of the Ubuntu marketing team, several people to design a professional looking marketing video, and lots of structure. Once more momentum is generated, the media will be apt to catch on to the trend. However, we want to make sure at all costs that this is positive exposure. Anything negative (eg. Ubuntu is for geeks only) could immensely hurt our image. Physical advertising is harder to get together, but if someone can find an investor, this could be very possible.
A final idea would be to push for Ubuntu in school systems. I know that where I live, the schools are forced to run Windows 2000 because of old computers and no money for an upgrade. Ubuntu could both free funds for education and implant knowledge about the system into children, our future consumer base.
Comment back with any ideas on how to improve this.

I think that the best place to start would be online campaigns, especially a series of official videos on youtube and other video sites. These should focus less on technical specs and the benefits of the open-source ideal, and more on the benefits of switching from Windows while retaining the ability to preform daily tasks. This will be targeting the main bulk of computer users: Microsoft customers who want to email, type, web browse, and don't like paying for an OS. Other facets of this campaign should include spreading the word about Ubuntu to non-tech oriented, high traffic website (myspace, yahoo), getting Ubuntu back as #1 on distrowatch.com, and creating guides in layman's terms so that non tech-savvy people can understand how to preform simple tasks. For example, don't tell people to open xorg.conf; tell them to type in the terminal 'gksudo gedit /etc/X11/xorg.conf'. Doing all of this will require a re-mobilization of the Ubuntu marketing team, several people to design a professional looking marketing video, and lots of structure. Once more momentum is generated, the media will be apt to catch on to the trend. However, we want to make sure at all costs that this is positive exposure. Anything negative (eg. Ubuntu is for geeks only) could immensely hurt our image. Physical advertising is harder to get together, but if someone can find an investor, this could be very possible. A final idea would be to push for Ubuntu in school systems. I know that where I live, the schools are forced to run Windows 2000 because of old computers and no money for an upgrade. Ubuntu could both free funds for education and implant knowledge about the system into children, our future consumer base. Comment back with any ideas on how to improve this.

Written by kumailht the 21 Mar 08 at 22:23.

A lot of ubuntu users may own blogs and websites , they most probably love ubuntu and want to pay the community back. If the ubuntu website can offer banner ads which are professional and unobtrusive, users can help spread the word.

The banners must be professional and convey the message clearly. It should allow users to change certain aspects of this to match the website design.

Only logos with slogans will not help as people dont know about ubuntu. The banners will help in branding and it isnt hard to create.

A lot of ubuntu users may own blogs and websites , they most probably love ubuntu and want to pay the community back. If the ubuntu website can offer banner ads which are professional and unobtrusive, users can help spread the word. The banners must be professional and convey the message clearly. It should allow users to change certain aspects of this to match the website design. Only logos with slogans will not help as people dont know about ubuntu. The banners will help in branding and it isnt hard to create.

Written by slsolaris the 19 Feb 09 at 15:50.

canonical should send emails about the new coming version of ubuntu to its users, videos and more, so we can resend them to our friends and they will know about ubuntu, so new many people will use this operating system.

Now i here your comments.

canonical should send emails about the new coming version of ubuntu to its users, videos and more, so we can resend them to our friends and they will know about ubuntu, so new many people will use this operating system. Now i here your comments.

Written by fixor the 21 Feb 09 at 11:28.

Create a propaganda webpage where people can see and learn what Ubuntu is. Show all the great features and explain what distinguishes Ubuntu from other operating systems. Screenshots, short videos and some compelling arguments why they wanna try Ubuntu.

This way you can direct friends and anyone interested to this page and you don't force commercials on those who don't want to see them.



The best place for this would be somewhere on the official ubuntu page http://brainstorm.ubuntu.com/idea/17265 .

Create a propaganda webpage where people can see and learn what Ubuntu is. Show all the great features and explain what distinguishes Ubuntu from other operating systems. Screenshots, short videos and some compelling arguments why they wanna try Ubuntu. This way you can direct friends and anyone interested to this page and you don't force commercials on those who don't want to see them. The best place for this would be somewhere on the official ubuntu page http://brainstorm.ubuntu.com/idea/17265 .

Written by flooted the 4 Mar 08 at 07:16.

At a guess most mainstream computer users still watch more TV than they use computers. It takes a bit of searching online to find out about Ubuntu, what it is and why it is a viable OS. Only people who are already interested in Ubuntu will take the time to do this. So reach out to those who don't know about Ubuntu through TV.

At a guess most mainstream computer users still watch more TV than they use computers. It takes a bit of searching online to find out about Ubuntu, what it is and why it is a viable OS. Only people who are already interested in Ubuntu will take the time to do this. So reach out to those who don't know about Ubuntu through TV.

Written by stoffel the 5 Jun 09 at 21:22.

This is NO advertising idea! Please look at my comment in the the original idea for more information (Idea #20152). Please do not vote here as this belongs in another category.

====

One of the things I hate about having to use commercial software at my work, is that when I encounter an annoying bug or usability issue in the software (which reduces my productivity), I have to live with it. Each time I report such problems to our IT department, they look desperately at me because they can't help me. Also, they are surprised that they get all these questions from me as I am the only one in the company complaining.

(The shock experiments of Seligman and Maier are a possibile explanation for why I am the only one who complains; I am used to escaping the shuttle-box because I already use Linux at home for a long time: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Learned_helplessness#Seligman_and_Maier )

In Ubuntu, you have Launchpad, Brainstorm. You can vote, you can contribute by creatively thinking about solutions, you can coordinate different reports and thoughts about the same issue on a wiki page, you can point experts in your network to the issue, you can write better documentation, you can submit patches, you can test fixes, and so forth.

This is NO advertising idea! Please look at my comment in the the original idea for more information (Idea #20152). Please do not vote here as this belongs in another category. ==== One of the things I hate about having to use commercial software at my work, is that when I encounter an annoying bug or usability issue in the software (which reduces my productivity), I have to live with it. Each time I report such problems to our IT department, they look desperately at me because they can't help me. Also, they are surprised that they get all these questions from me as I am the only one in the company complaining. (The shock experiments of Seligman and Maier are a possibile explanation for why I am the only one who complains; I am used to escaping the shuttle-box because I already use Linux at home for a long time: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Learned_helplessness#Seligman_and_Maier ) In Ubuntu, you have Launchpad, Brainstorm. You can vote, you can contribute by creatively thinking about solutions, you can coordinate different reports and thoughts about the same issue on a wiki page, you can point experts in your network to the issue, you can write better documentation, you can submit patches, you can test fixes, and so forth. ====> Ubuntu should improve communication regarding the enormous advantage that bugs are not persistent and that the user has *control* over the bug fixing process. For instance, in the help menu of each application a "What do you hate in this application?" entry can be added that allows people to report annoyances and that learns them how they can help to fix this annoyance. Obviously, this also can get another name like "What annoys you?". Another possibility to highlight the fact that the user has a stake in the evolution of Ubuntu (contrastingly to closed source platforms), is by some dialog like this: "This is the third time you booted Ubuntu. Do you want to initiate a live chat session with a random community member to report your experiences with Ubuntu? Is there something that annoyed you in your previous 2 Ubuntu sessions? Or do you have a question?"

Written by stoffel the 5 Jun 09 at 21:41.

This is an advertising idea that belongs to Idea #20152. Please read that idea for a better understanding of this solution! Please look at my comment in the the original idea for more information (Idea #20152). Please do not vote here as this belongs in another category.

====

This campaign should consist of an USB stick accompanied with a letter. Key message of such a campaign should be something like these:

* "Do you know Windows is not a requirement to do business? Ubuntu requires only a modest 384MB of RAM. Save on hardware by convincing yourself with the included USB stick!"

* "Do you know Windows is not a requirement to do business? Ubuntu is safe by design and thanks to its fast security updates. Save on anti-virus software by convincing yourself with the included USB stick!"

* "Do you know Windows is not a requirement to do business? Ubuntu is accompanied with thousands of easy-to-install and easy-to-update software programs. Save administration time by convincing yourself with the included USB stick!"

This is an advertising idea that belongs to Idea #20152. Please read that idea for a better understanding of this solution! Please look at my comment in the the original idea for more information (Idea #20152). Please do not vote here as this belongs in another category. ==== This campaign should consist of an USB stick accompanied with a letter. Key message of such a campaign should be something like these: * "Do you know Windows is not a requirement to do business? Ubuntu requires only a modest 384MB of RAM. Save on hardware by convincing yourself with the included USB stick!" * "Do you know Windows is not a requirement to do business? Ubuntu is safe by design and thanks to its fast security updates. Save on anti-virus software by convincing yourself with the included USB stick!" * "Do you know Windows is not a requirement to do business? Ubuntu is accompanied with thousands of easy-to-install and easy-to-update software programs. Save administration time by convincing yourself with the included USB stick!"

Written by stoffel the 5 Jun 09 at 21:56.

This is an advertising idea that belongs to Idea #20152. Please read that idea for a better understanding of this solution! Please look at my comment in the the original idea for more information (Idea #20152). Please do not vote here as this belongs in another category.

====

In this flyer campaign, Ubuntu community members can print flyers at home (or request free flyers in gloss paper via shipit). Next, they can give these flyers to other people or put them in people's mail boxes.

These flyers can look like this:
"Windows is no requirement - Your computer also can run Ubuntu, and maybe you even like it better"
<vertical list of advantages>
<link to download page>

Or like this:
"Is your computer slow? Do not throw it away! Try Ubuntu!"
<vertical list of advantages>
<link to download page>

Or this:

This is an advertising idea that belongs to Idea #20152. Please read that idea for a better understanding of this solution! Please look at my comment in the the original idea for more information (Idea #20152). Please do not vote here as this belongs in another category. ==== In this flyer campaign, Ubuntu community members can print flyers at home (or request free flyers in gloss paper via shipit). Next, they can give these flyers to other people or put them in people's mail boxes. These flyers can look like this: "Windows is no requirement - Your computer also can run Ubuntu, and maybe you even like it better" &lt;vertical list of advantages> &lt;link to download page> Or like this: "Is your computer slow? Do not throw it away! Try Ubuntu!" &lt;vertical list of advantages> &lt;link to download page> Or this: "Is your computer infected by a virus? Fix it by yourself! Try Ubuntu!" &lt;vertical list of advantages> &lt;link to download page> Or this: "You hate computers? Try Ubuntu!" &lt;vertical list of advantages> &lt;link to download page> Or this: "Computers are difficult for you? Try Ubuntu!" &lt;vertical list of advantages> &lt;link to download page>

Written by stoffel the 5 Jun 09 at 22:07.

This is NO advertising idea! Please look at my comment in the the original idea for more information (Idea #20152). Please do not vote here as this belongs in another category.

====

The Linux Foundation should create a Tux logo campaign for hardware devices to indicate Linux support. This campaign should be backed by all Linux distributions including Ubuntu.

This is NO advertising idea! Please look at my comment in the the original idea for more information (Idea #20152). Please do not vote here as this belongs in another category. ==== The Linux Foundation should create a Tux logo campaign for hardware devices to indicate Linux support. This campaign should be backed by all Linux distributions including Ubuntu.

Written by p_squiddy the 13 Aug 09 at 13:26.

Get everyone you know to simply ask for Ubuntu next time they enter a Big Box store. For example, they could ask, "This laptop is very nice. Do you have one that comes with Ubuntu on it?"

The Big Box stores claim there is no demand for Open Source and Linux. Why? Because no one goes into their stores and asks for it. Inform your friends a bit about Ubuntu and how stress-free it can make your PC, remind them to ask about it at their local Big Box store next time they're there. If they see the demand, they WILL respond.

Best of all, this kind of advertising is free!

Get everyone you know to simply ask for Ubuntu next time they enter a Big Box store. For example, they could ask, "This laptop is very nice. Do you have one that comes with Ubuntu on it?" The Big Box stores claim there is no demand for Open Source and Linux. Why? Because no one goes into their stores and asks for it. Inform your friends a bit about Ubuntu and how stress-free it can make your PC, remind them to ask about it at their local Big Box store next time they're there. If they see the demand, they WILL respond. Best of all, this kind of advertising is free!

Written by summersab the 25 Aug 09 at 00:23.

I think it would be a great way to spread the word about Ubuntu if Canonical provided free commercial support or other perks to companies that are willing to advertise about Ubuntu or sell computers with Ubuntu pre-installed. Doing a "I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine" method would help keep payments low.

I think it would be a great way to spread the word about Ubuntu if Canonical provided free commercial support or other perks to companies that are willing to advertise about Ubuntu or sell computers with Ubuntu pre-installed. Doing a "I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine" method would help keep payments low.