Ubuntu Compact Discs

Version and Release Numbers

The Ubuntu version numbering scheme is based on the year and month of the release. Our first release was version 4.10 made in October, 2004. The current release is 5.04, made in April 2005.

Each Ubuntu release has a unique combination of component versions - kernel, X, Gnome, GCC, libc... so an aggregate version number does not make much sense. We prefer to give you an idea of when that release was pushed to the wires.

You may ask yourself, "With such a numbering scheme, what happens with the version number in 2100?"

Our answer is, "Our grandchildren should be able to figure that one out. At the moment we're just focused on the next release :-)"

Obtaining Ubuntu CDs

There are a number of ways in which to obtain a copy of Ubuntu all of which are detailed on the Ubuntu Web site download page.

The first method is to download an ISO image from a mirror server near you and make your 'Install CD' from this.

If you don't have a CD burner or you are in a country without a mirror server, limited or expensive bandwidth, in this case we can send you pressed copies of the 'Install CD' free of charge. You may request CDs at Shipit - the Ubuntu CD Distribution System also found on the Ubuntu Web site download page. Please provide full and shipping information (including postal address or we will not be able to send you the CDs.

[Note]

For each release a cut-off date by which orders for 'Install CD' must be received. Any requests made after this date will be considered for the next release of Ubuntu.

Another method of obtaining Ubuntu is to join a local Linux Users Group (LUG) and ask if somebody has a copy and would not mind duplicating it. Naturally you will have to replace the CDs used in duplication and any postage or delivery costs.

If you do not know of a LUG near you, a list can be found at Linux Users Groups WorldWide.

[Tip]

Once you have placed an order via Shipit, you can check to see if your request has been sent to the factory by logging into Shipit. CDs will take up to several weeks to be shipped. We're sorry but we cannot provide information on individual shipments.