UNIX for Dummies Questions & Answers

Is Unix freely downloadable like Linux? If so where can I get it?
If you can't get it freely, is available as a demo for learning purposes?
I'm completely new to Unix, and it's starting to get used at work so would would like to try to learn a bit about the OS

Sorry, I'm after it for an Intel box. I've checked out Sun.com, but they don't have it for intel to download

Linux = Unix = Solaris = HP-UX = SCO...
Search the forums for lots of discussions on "Is Linux Unix?"...

As far as Solaris for Intel, they have stopped the downloads, but if you want to buy it, they ship it to you for something like $45 USD. You can also get Caldera / SCO Unix for Intel pretty cheap at Caldera's website. Or there's also annything in the *BSD family, like FreeBSD, NetBSD, and OpenBSD...
Then there's Minix, Linux, and a few other smaller clones.

It doesn't really matter which one you get if you're a beginner. If you want to learn the one you have at work, please post back with the type of Unix it is, and maybe someone can point you in the right place (Or better yet, you could search for it... people ask about getting Unix all of the time).
Everyone has their favorite - some say Linux is easier to set up and learn, some like BSD, etc etc etc ad nauseum...

plus the FAQ Threads on Where to Download Unix

https://www.unix.com/where-do-i-download-linux-and-unix-/

We use solaris so would like to get my hands on that. I live in Aus so paying $45US for it is not really an option.

How about checking on Australia Sun site...
Ive checked the webpage using *.au able to go in and the catalougs are there with Solaris price stated ( i think so, but u can verify). Downloading from Sun site have been disabled/freezed some times ago due to Copyrights / privacy.
You may try to check the sun site on Aus site or you may try to call the regional office in Aus (In Perth or Adelaide if im not mistaken). Bottom line.. Free downloads i dont think so exists anymore.

Yeah, that would cost you almost $85 AUD, plus shipping...
Sometimes you can find great deals on used and refurbished Sun hardware from sun.com or ebay... If you keep looking for a few weeks before you buy, you can get a great deal on older stuff that is still great for learning.

As far as basics, a BSD system will be fine; so would a Linux box. It's when you get to administration, or more advanced tasks that it would be useful to have Solaris...

Do you think you'd be able to get your company to get a trainer system for you and your co-workers to use? We have an HP-UX "crash" box here (It's OK to crash it, get it? ) that is very helpful for learning and testing...

As a side note: I just poked over on eBay to look for Solaris Intel media - It must still be in demand, because some goofballs are paying almost as much or more than the media kit is worth for a used set! There's also one or two that have no bids on them yet...
Odd the way that works...