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8. First Boot and Desktop Environment Overview (GNOME)

Linux Basics: From Zero to CLI Hero

Post-Installation and Exploration

After installation, the VM will prompt you to 'Restart Now'. Once restarted, remember to unmount the ISO file in VirtualBox settings (Storage -> Optical Drive -> Remove Disk).

The GNOME Desktop Environment

Ubuntu uses GNOME (or a heavily customized version of it) as its default Graphical User Interface (GUI). Key components:

  • Dock (or Dash): Usually on the left, provides shortcuts to favorite applications.
  • Activities Overview: Press the 'Super' key (Windows key) to view all open windows and search for applications.
  • Top Bar: Contains indicators for network, battery, sound, and a system menu for logging out or shutting down.

Spend a few minutes navigating the settings, connecting to the network (which VirtualBox usually handles automatically), and ensuring everything looks correct.