"Software Sources" Missing Tabs

[VitoDe]

I'm a Linux newbie using Ubuntu 8.04 Hardy (Long Term Edition) on a Dell Mini 9 netbook. I've received no updates in over two months, and noticed that under Administration / Software Sources, I'm now missing three of the tabs, including "Ubuntu Software," "Updates" and "Statistics." I'm guessing that their absence is causing my lack of updates. Any way a mere mortal could get these tabs back and once again start receiving updates? Would it be easier -- if it's possible -- to rid the netbook of Dell altogether and, if it's possible, simply to install Ubuntu 9.04? I've sent for the 9.04 CD. Thanks!

[aysiu]

I don't know why those tabs disappeared or how to get them back, but you can manually get updates by simply going to System > Administration > Synaptic Package Manager, clicking Reload, Mark All Upgrades, and then Apply.

If Synaptic isn't in your menus, you can also paste this command into the terminal: sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get dist-upgrade

[VitoDe]

Thanks, Aysiu. I'll try it. If it doesn't work, would installing version 9.04 run on my Dell Mini 9 and rid the netbook of any Dell influence in the software?