A few weeks ago we reviewed DropBox as a means of storing files and back-up remotely.  It now transpires that the Linux distribution Ubuntu now have a similar Cloud Computing application, Ubuntu One, which  currently being Beta tested.
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This testing is currently closed, but is available to Ubuntu users with a Launchpad account by invitation.  Reports indicate that requests on the site are taking a long time to come through, however CoConut Solutions jumped the queue somewhat by asking for an invite in the #ubuntuone IRC chatroom.
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Of course by taking a product that is currently being Beta tested, means that you are part of the testing team, and that there are likely to be bugs in the platform, as a result it is a good idea NOT to use the facility for sensitive, valuable or irreplaceable data just yet.
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The basic package seems to be very similar to, and in Ubuntu, works in the same way as DropBox.  Clicking on the icon in the panel opens the Ubuntu One folder, which appears just the same as any other folder in the Nautilus file system.  From there you click & drag, or copy & paste the files and folders across from your computer to the ‘Cloud Computer’.
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The proposals are that (again) like DropBox there will be free (no-cost) accounts fro storage up to 2GB.  For $10US per month you can upgrade the account to 10GB.  In addition:
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• Seamless integration with your Ubuntu based computer
• Sync files between multiple machines
• Access to your files away from your computers via our web interface
• Free 2GB Storage Plan

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I’m sure that you are wondering what the advantages of Ubuntu One will be over DropBox.  The answer is that Ubuntu One comes from a trusted source, as such updates and patches will be released through the Update Manager, and latest versions held in the Ubuntu Repositories.  If things change with DropBox, there is the danger that they may not be able to co-ordinate patches or upgrades in the same manner that Ubuntu can.
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There is no indication as to how long Ubuntu One will be in Beta, however there have been unsubstantiated rumours that there is a desire to have Ubuntu One available with v09.10 which is due for release in October.  If it is not possible to have it ready later in the year, we are sure that Canonical will what this feature as part of v10.04, which following Ubuntu’s release schedule, will be the Long Term Support release.
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CoConut Solutions has been using WordPress blogging software as a template behind web-sites for a number of years.  We do this as and we recommend it to our customers for one reason only.  It’s easy to use.
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WordPress is a tried ans tested Content Management System (CMS).  It is the database on which all the content for your site is entered and stored.  As mentioned before, WordPress is primarily a blogging package, but it’s flexibility means that it is ideal for building and maintaining a small site.  In addition to this there are countless themes available to download from the internet which gives your site it’s unique look, as well as innumerable plug-ins making your site unique to visitors.
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It is hard to explain just how simple it is to use.  The closest comparison is that generating content for your website is about as easy as writing an e-mail using Hotmail.  This means that you can keep your website up to date.  You can quickly make changes and alterations to reflect special offers or changes within your business or organisation, and you can do this yourself.  This means that changes are done immediately, and saves you the cost of  employing Web-Developers to make minor alterations.
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CoConut Solutions can set you up with everything you need to build your own site.  We can also supply the necessary content to get you started, as well as providing training that has been tailored to suit your needs to ensure that you can keep your site runnig the way that you want.
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Have a look at this video showing how easy it is to use WordPress Control Panel.  This is the back door to your site, the place where you enter all your articles, pages and pictures.
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You  push Linux Ubuntu because you make more money out of it

If only that were true! CoConut Solutions supplies software ‘at cost’, be-it the price of a licensed MS Windows disc or the price of the Linux media. What our clients pay for is our time in installing the software, setting things up, and where required giving basic training in its use.
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Typically for the cost of my just installing Windows XP onto your computer, we can install Ubuntu, set up the computer in a home or office, and give basic training to a Linux novice. Cost-wise, the money is the same. Value for money, our customers get more by opting for Linux.
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I have a pirated version of Windows on my computer. The idea of Linux appeals to me, but I know Windows and I don’t feel confident having a computer that doesn’t have the features that I’m used to.

There are a number of options open to you. CoConut Solutions can save your data, and install a licensed version of Windows. Alternatively it may be possible to install Linux on the same hard disc as your existing Windows install.
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This is called a dual-boot, and when installed after powering up the computer, you would be given a menu offering you the choice of booting into either Windows or the Linux operating system. We find that after only a week, many of CoConut Solutions’ customers use the Windows system less and less as they become productive with Linux. Of course the learning curve is different for different customers.