If you want to install Nvidia drivers in Ubuntu Feisty and above versions is very easy to install.Ubuntu doesn’t include Nvidia drivers in a default installation for a number of reasons.

One of the first questions Linux users often ask, after installing their distro of choice, is “How do I install Nvidia drivers?” Although the process has been hit and miss in the past, one of the best solutions that I have come across is Envy for the Ubuntu distribution. The process is breathtakingly easy and works like a charm everytime.

Yesterday I’ve updated my Ubuntu 7.10 Gutsy system to the new 8.04 Hardy Heron. The only problem I faced after the install was with the nVidia drivers.

I decided to install them by hand and here is the process in nine easy steps.

Today I decided to upgrade my Mythdora to the latest verison, 5.0. I downloaded the CD media and booted into the install. I had to do a text install to be able to watch it on my TV. Then I just needed to yum install the kmod-nvidia drivers.

190.25 (beta) is currently under development and most notably it brings support for OpenGL 3.2.

They have even criticized Nvidia specifically for not releasing free drivers. Nvidia responded.

I have upgraded my entire OS (think Ubuntu release upgrades) whilst using X and browsing the web. Yet when it comes to nvidia drivers, the package from the nvidia website demands I exit X before it can install itself!? Even worse, people seem to think this is ok.

Why install this driver?

Your NVIDIA video card will work on your Fedora 11 box without this driver, however if you want to enable the 3D acceleration (if you want to use Compiz Fsuion) you need to install it.
Which driver to use?

The latest nvidia driver: This is a proprietary driver that works with newer nvidia cards.

Installing NVIDIA drivers on Debian Lenny requires a little extra work compared to doing so in other distributions like Ubuntu, due to the lack of some required packages in the default installation.