I always add few "extras" to every Ubuntu / Kubuntu installation. Here they are, and why you need 'em ...


Enable all repositories
These seem to be enabled by default these days, but it doesn't hurt to check ...

Ubuntu : Click System -> Administration -> Synaptic Package Manager. Click on Settings -> Repositories. Tick all except the Source Code boxes under the Ubuntu Software tab.

Kubuntu : (Using KDE 3 or KDE4's "Classic" Menu): Click Settings -> Software Sources. (Using KDE4's default "Kickoff" menu):  Click Applications -> System -> Software Sources. Tick all except the Source Code boxes under the Ubuntu Software tab.

Add restricted extras
Like most Linux distributions, Ubuntu is a collection of free software. Some of what most users have come to regard as essentials may be subject to software patents and/or license restrictions so they're not included by default. But they're simple to add from the command line:

sudo apt-get install ubuntu-restricted-extras

Now you should find Flash works in your browser and you can play MP3s, Quicktime, Windows Media and much else.



Playing DVDs
The following commands only apply to Ubuntu/Kubuntu 9.04. For earlier versions, try this link.

sudo apt-get install libdvdread4 sudo /usr/share/doc/libdvdread4/install-css.sh

Note that playing DVDs without using properly licensed software is illegal in some countries.



Boot Menu Management
If you're dual booting, Startup Manager's straightforward GUI really simplifies configuration changes.

sudo apt-get install startupmanager

Updated (13/05/2009):
Johannes Eva at http://www.johannes-eva.net has got a more detailed and useful summary. Check out Eva's useful guide to Ubuntu 9.04. Great stuff!



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