KI 3436 Linux @ UiB

2026-07-21 (updated 2026-07-23)

You want to regain control over your own laptop (and your own brain) ? Then running Linux is a good start.
The knowledge cards under the heading "Linux @ UiB" outline how can get started and use Linux for your academic work and/or private computing. You find all cards related to "Linux @ UiB" on the sidebar. Where the sidebar appears - on the right or the left of this text, or below - depends on your browser.

The essential knowledge cards are #1 through 5. The rest of the documentation is optional.
Begin with the "#1 Get started" page. Then proceed according to your needs.
#9 is a collection of cards on domain-specific Linux solutions.
#10 "Advanced Linux Topics" includes a step-by-step guide on how to install Linux on your own.

The cards apply to all versions of Ubuntu 24 or 26 LTS, regardless if the computer is managed by UiB IT or if you "Bring your own Device" (BYOD). However, under BYOD the assumption will often be that your have sudo/root privileges on your own system. This will not necessarily be the case on a UiB Linux machine. On UiB machines you have to apply for local administrator rights - see the knowledge card "Linux @ UiB: 5. UiB Administration". KI 3438

For beginners, there are often too many choices to make. This is why we have decided to "Keep it Simple Stupid" (KISS) and just present you our own tried and tested solutions so that you can be productive from day one. As you get more experienced, you will discover your own preferences. This is fine with us!
Please let us know if our documentation is useful by giving us feedback in the comment section at the bottom of each knowledge page.