GNU/Linux (General)

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Reposted from stuff.co.nz

10 October 2005 By REUBEN SCHWARZ

In a stroke of irony, Microsoft's Halo movie will be produced in Wellington by servers running the open-source Linux operating system.

Universal Pictures and Twentieth Century Fox announced last week that Peter Jackson and his partner Fran Walsh will act as executive producers for the film, based on the best-selling game for Microsoft's Xbox gaming console.

Bungie, the Microsoft-owned development firm which created the game, confirmed that Peter Jackson's post-production firm Weta Digital would be involved in the movie.

Weta Digital uses more than 1000 dual-processor IBM blade servers running the Fedora version of the Red Hat distribution of the Linux to produce special effects for movies that have so far included Lord of the Rings and King Kong.

About half the processors are rented out by the New Zealand Supercomputing Centre – a joint venture between Telecom and Weta – when they are not needed for film-making.

The open-source Linux operating system is growing in popularity in the server market, threatening the market share of Microsoft's Windows Server, though it hasn't managed to make major inroads on the desktop.

Halo centres on the adventures of an armour-clad super soldier known as the Master Chief who battles an alien horde, and the movie is certain to be laden with special effects rendered using Weta's servers.

The game has sold 13 million copies worldwide, generating $US600 million in revenue, and was the making of the Xbox games console.

Microsoft will receive $US$5 million up front from Universal Pictures and Twentieth Century Fox, plus a cut of ticket sales.

The script for Halo was written by Alex Garland, who penned the sci-fi hit 28 Days. The movie is expected to be released mid-2007.

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Reposted from wikipedia

.deb-based distributions

• Adamantix: A Debian-based distribution focusing on security.
• Amber Linux: A Debian-based distribution tailored specifically to the needs of Latvian users.
• ASLinux Desktop: A Spanish Debian&KDE-based distribution targeted to any kind of desktop user, from home to office, from education to gaming, from science to software development. Its main strength is its great usability.
• Bonzai Linux (formerly known as miniwoody): 180 MB distribution, KDE
• Damn Small Linux: 50 MB live CD, Fluxbox
• Debian GNU/Linux: A distribution assembled by a large community of volunteers. Debian has a large selection of packages (over 15000) and supports a large number of hardware platforms. It previously had a reputation of being difficult to install but latest releases include very good and easy to use text based installer. To bring system up to usable desktop requires previous experience and effort. Debian is known to for being somewhat politically motivated; software that is not free is not usually tolerated in core Debian (e.g. LAME and other audio/video codecs).
• Debian-BR-CDD (Debian-BR-Custom Debian Distribution): GNOME
• De2: Debian Depok
• Gibraltar: Router and firewall
• Gnoppix: A version of the Knoppix distribution that uses the GNOME desktop environment. This distribution has long release cycle and may integrate with Ubuntu in the future.
• Guadalinex: A Debian and Metadistros based distribution promoted by the local government of Andalusia, Spain for home users and schools (cf. EduLinux, Skolelinux).
• Hiweed: An easy-to-use, Chinese distribution based on Debian GNU/Linux.
• ImpiLinux: GNOME, South Africa
• Kanotix: A live CD version of Debian based on Knoppix that can also be installed to a hard-drive as a complete and ready-to-use system. Known for its excellent hardware support and desktop integration among laptops (many suggest kanotix over MEPIS)
• Knoppix: The first live CD version of Debian GNU/Linux whom many have copied since. Usable after booting from the CD image and comes with a large amount of software. Boot time is somewhat lengthy in all Knoppix based distributions due to extensive hardware detection.
• Kurumin: A version of the Knoppix distribution designed for Brazilian users.
• Libranet: commercial, KDE, IceWM, Gnome
• LinEx: A distribution promoted by the government of Extremadura, Spain.
• Linspire: commercial, KDE
• Loco Linux: An Argentine Linux distrubution based on Debian GNU/Linux.
• Mepis: live CD, KDE
• Morphix: A LiveCD Debian distribution with different flavours, including GNOME. Often found being used as a base for other custom live distribution such as Clusterix, PHlAK or Gnix (to name three).
• OpenZaurus: ROM image for the Sharp Zaurus PDA
• PingOO: communication server, GNOME or KDE or others
• Progeny: commercial, custom solutions
• Skolelinux: A Debian-based distribution started in Norway as an affordable thin client distribution for schools (cf. EduLinux, Guadalinex).
• Sun Wah RAYS LX: A Debian-based desktop distribution, developed in China.
• Symphony OS: A new (2005) Debian-based user friendly Linux distro. Includes Mezzo desktop which is unlike anything seen before; it uses corners for tasks and background for menus (something like SuperKaramba).
• Ubuntu Linux: A distribution based on Debian and sponsored by Canonical Ltd. Uses own package repositories which should not be mixed with Debian repositories; the idea is to take snapshots own Debian in regular inervals and offer complete and polished Desktop. Considered the highest rising star among Debian based distributions.

• Kubuntu Linux: A version of the Ubuntu distribution that uses the KDE desktop enviroment.

• Underground Desktop: user friendly desktop distribution based on debian unstable, with graphical installer, KDE
• UserLinux: commercial, GNOME
• Xandros: commercial, KDE
• Xebian: a distribution for the Xbox home gaming console, Fluxbox
• Zen Linux: live CD desktop, Gnome or KDE

RPM-based distributions

• aLinux: A distribution for home use equivalent to Windows XP Home (formerly Peanut Linux).
• ALT Linux: A collection of popular Cyrillic-based distributions, such as Master, Compact, Junior, and Castle.
• Ark Linux: A distribution that is focused on ease of use and ease of learning, while remaining technically sane.
• ASPLinux: A distribution that provides support for Russian and other Cyrillic languages.
• Aurox: a Linux distribution with emphasis on support for several European languages.
• Berry Linux: A medium Fedora Core based distribution that provides support in Japanese and English.
• Blag Linux: A distribution designed to provide many features while remaining within the size of 1 CD.
• Caixa Mágica: "The Portuguese distribution of Linux".
• cAos Linux: Diversly managed by the community, general purpose, lightweight (fast and can be suitable for running on older hardware) and easily customizable
• CentOS: Community supported distribution which aims to be 100% compatible with the Red Hat Enterprise Linux distribution without Red Hat branding and various copyrighted software
• Cobind Desktop
• Conectiva: A Brazilian distribution and founding member of the now-defunct United Linux. The supporting company has now merged with Mandriva Linux.
• EduLinux: A distribution for educational purposes (cf. Guadalinex, Skolelinux ).
• Fedora Core: A general purpose distro for workstation, desktop and server use. Developed by Red Hat and the community.
• Linux Mobile System: A Fedora Core-based distribution designed to boot from USB Mass Storage devices, such as keydrives.
• Magic Linux: An easy-to-use distribution for Chinese users.
• Mandriva Linux: Mandriva is considered among the easiest Linux distributions for novice users. Originally a Red Hat variant optimized for Pentium-class CPUs, it has since diverged to form its own "user-friendly" distribution, while retaining compatibility. While remaining entirely free software with active community support, Mandriva does, via a subscription basis or the selling of boxed products, provide enterprise-class support and services, as well as a some incentives to paying-members of their club.
• Novell Linux Desktop: a desktop-oriented Linux distribution supplied by Novell, Inc. and targeted at the business market.
• PCLinuxOS: An easy-to-use LiveCD distribution, with a reputation for a well-polished "look and feel"; also crafted for effortless installation to a local hard drive. Originally based on Mandrake 9.2, PCLinuxOS has since pursued its own course of development, focusing on desktop users. While remaining an RPM-based distribution, PCLinuxOS does stand-out through its use of the APT package management tool (from Debian fame) together with its Synaptic GUI frontend.
• PCQLinux2004: A distribution made by the Indian magazine PCQuest, based on Fedora Core.
• PLD Linux Distribution: A Polish distribution intended for more advanced users, while remaining more convenient than Slackware or Gentoo.
• QiLinux: made in Italy, completely from scratch. The QiLinux staff has developed a desktop and live version as well as a server and advanced server version.
• Red Flag Linux: A distribution developed in China and optimised for the Chinese market.
• Red Hat Enterprise Linux: The solely-commercial fork from Red Hat Linux (in RPM-based distributions).
• Scientific Linux: A distribution, solely recompiled from the source distributed under GPL by a commercial Red Hat Enterprise Linux (in RPM-based distributions).
• SUSE/openSUSE: Based in Nürnberg, Germany, SUSE (previously SuSE) is one of the most popular distributions in Europe. Like Red Hat, it is a large distribution (on 7+ CDs and, recently, 2 DVDs as well). It features a unique configuration tool named YaST. Founding member of United Linux. Recently purchased by Novell, Inc. openSUSE is a newer branch which is completely open-source and community-based.
• SUSE LINUX Enterprise Server: a server-oriented Linux distribution supplied by Novell, Inc. and targeted at the business market.
• Tinfoil Hat Linux: A distribution for the security-conscious and paranoid.
• Trustix: A somewhat-hardened distribution focused on security. Contrast SELinux, from NSA, which is a set of kernel modifications, not a distribution, and cannot be used alone, however.
• Turbolinux: A popular distribution in Asia, based on Red Hat. Member of United Linux.
• Vine Linux: A Japanese distribution based on Red Hat.
• White Box Enterprise Linux: A distribution designed to be compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux version 3.
• Yellow Dog: A Red Hat-based distribution for the PowerPC platform.
• YOPER: "Your Operating System", a desktop distribution from New Zealand.

Slackware

• Frugalware: general purpose linux distribution, designed for intermediate users
• Kate OS: A lightweight, Polish language distribution based on Slackware design principles.
• Plamo Linux: A Japanese distribution based on Slackware.
• Slackware: An older distribution, maintained by Patrick Volkerding. Slackware is known for its focus on simplicity and security.
• SLAX: A small bootable CD made by Tomas Matejicek.
• Ultima Linux: Customized distro by Martin Ultima.
• Zenwalk Linux (formerly MiniSlack): A Slackware based optimized distribution featuring XFCE 4 as the default desktop, Gnome libraries, the reiser4 filesystem, and the 2.6 kernel.

Distributions using other packaging systems

• Arch Linux: An i686-optimized linux distribution targeted at competent linux users.
• Foresight Linux: A distribution built around the quite new packaging system Conary, which aims on switchers by providing an easy to use and at the same time innovative Linux distribution.
• Gentoo: A distribution intended for enthusiasts and professionals with it's own package management system called Portage. Gentoo focuses on the compilation of source code rather than the distribution of binary packages, thus making applications work much faster.
• GoboLinux: An alternative Linux distribution which redefines the entire file system hierarchy by installing everything belonging to one application in one subfolder under /Programs, and using symlinks from /System and its subfolders to point to the proper files.
• Heretix: The successor of RubyX, management of this distribution is done via the Ruby programming language. Packagement is handled via Ruby as well, with packages being installed in one folder under /pkg. (Currently, June 2005, in very very early beta stage)
• ImpiLinux: A South African distribution that focuses on the needs of African users.
• Jedi GNU/Linux: A source-based GNU/Linux Metadistribution which is built around the force-get package manager. It is currently in a beta-state (as of June 2005) but is in constant development.
• Linux From Scratch: A document specifying the process of compiling an entire Linux system from scratch, adjusted by whoever creates "his/her own personal Linux system". (not a distribution).
• Lunar Linux: A source code-based distribution descended from Sorcerer GNU/Linux.
• MkLinux: A distribution for PowerPC systems that runs the Linux kernel as a server on top of the Mach microkernel.
• Onebase Linux: A distribution intended for a broad range of users.
• Sorcerer GNU/Linux: A source code-based distribution.
• Source Mage GNU/Linux: A source code-based distribution, descended from Sorcerer GNU/Linux.
• Ututo: A Gentoo based distribution, made in Argentina.

Small or lightweight distributions for use with older machines

Most of the mini distributions offer both harddisk and USB stick installation choices.

• Austrumi: A Latvian Live-CD mini-distribution. Supports English. Similar to Puppy Linux, but more professional looking and includes a richer set of features. Uses the Fvwm95 window manager, and is based on Slackware.
• Basic Linux (BL). Aimed at very low end and limited hardware, such as the 386/486. Comes on 2 floppies instead of the more normal CD. Slackware based and extendable with programs directly from the Slackware repository.
• cAos Linux: Diversly managed by the community, general purpose, lightweight (fast and can be suitable for running on older hardware) and easily customizable
• Damn Small Linux (DSL): Grandfather of mini distributions. A live distro designed for mini-cds. The design goal was to see how many usable desktop applications could fit inside a 50MB CD. It was at first just a personal tool/toy. But over time Damn Small Linux grew into a community project with hundreds of development hours put into refinements including a fully automated remote and local application installation system and a very versatile backup and restore system which may be used with any writable media including a hard drive, a floppy drive, or a USB device. Uses Knoppix hardware detection which - although detecting most hardware selection - takes a relatively long time to boot (for a lightweight distribution). Includes own *.dsl packaging system, BUT offers options to use Debian repositories to extend the system (use with caution). Fluxbox is the default Window manager. There is a considerably active community around DSL. (.deb).
• Feather Linux: Sharing similar goals as Damn Small Linux, but not based on it (Feather is more closely related to Knoppix). Includes more software packages than DSL raising the "small" limit to about 115MB. Uses Knoppix-based hardware detection and the Fluxbox window manager. Compatible with Debian packages (.deb).
• Flonix USB Edition: a light distro for nomad desktop that runs from USB Keydrive. This is a pure commercial distribution that can only be purchased pre-installed on USB sticks.
• Knopperdisk: New kid in the block. Aimed purely at USB sticks. (Gentoo based).
• Puppy Linux: Completely different than other mini distribution. Fast (boots 2-3 times faster than any other mini distribution). Boots well under low end PCs (even under 32MB RAM) with its ultra-minimalistic approach, where Damn Small Linux or Feather Linux would crawl. Contains very minimal set of utilities; e.g. earlier versions used busybox instead of bash. Managing the system to install new software requires more experience from average user. Uses Fvwm95 windows-a-like window manager.
• Stem Desktop [1]: A hybrid, which used standard Debian packages to build desktop (Fvwm95). Designed for low end hardware (266Mhz or less, 64M or less) so packages selected from Debian repository are the lightest available. Unlike other Debian based mini-distributions, this one does not have its own install CD. User needs to install stock Debian CD first and then run a custom text based install script which builds the rest through open network connection. Interesting idea, because this provides 100% Debian compatibility.
• SPBLinux: Mini-distribution for floppies and USB keydrives.
• Vector Linux: A medium-lightweight distribution. Designed to provide the user with a simplified installer and small, fast applications that function well on older computers as well as new ones. There are several editions of which the SOHO (Small office, Home office) is the full blown 2G installation and "Dynamite" is around 800M. SOHO offers KDE/IceWM window managers that have been themed to look very professional. Dynamite offers subset of utilities and IceWM only. Includes simple package management updater. (Slackware based).

Entirely- or partially-commercial distributions

• BlueCat Linux: An implementation of the Linux model enhanced for use in embedded systems ranging from small consumer-type devices to large-scale, multi-CPU systems.
• Libranet: A Debian-based desktop distribution based upon and 100% compatible with Debian. The installation has hardware detection and the desktop has an 'adminmenu' (in both text and gui mode) to ease hardware and software configuration.
• Linspire: Another desktop-oriented distribution, previously called Lindows, based on Debian. Additional software is available from Linspire or via Debian's apt command, although compatibility with Debian is not guaranteed. Has significant proprietary content.
• Mandrakelinux: now referred to as Mandriva Linux (following the merger of Mandrakesoft and Conectiva). Their various products (for servers, workstations, small businesses as well as individuals) are considered among the easiest Linux distributions to maintain for novice users. Originally a Red Hat variant optimized for Pentium-class CPUs, Mandriva Linux has since diverged to form its own "user-friendly" distributions. While remaining entirely free software, Mandriva's business model adds further enterprise-class support and services, mainly through a subscription basis, as well as a delayed release strategy for individual non-members of their club.
• MEPIS: An easy-to-use Debian-based distribution which also runs as a LiveCD, allowing you to try out MEPIS before you decide to install it on your hard drive.
• Mobilinux- By Montavista for smartphones.
• Nitix: Developed by Net Integration Technologies Inc., Nitix claims to be the first autonomic Linux-based server operating system.
• Novell Linux Desktop: since Novell acquired SUSE, their Linux products are based off both former distributions.
• Progeny Debian: A linux distribution developed by Progeny, based on Debian, using Anaconda installer ported from Red Hat. This distribution is also called Progeny Componentized Linux.
• Red Hat Enterprise Linux: The solely-commercial fork from Red Hat Linux (in RPM-based distributions).
• Sun Wah RAYS LX: A Debian-based desktop distribution, developed in China.
• SUSE: Based in Nürnberg, Germany, SUSE (previously SuSE) is one of the most popular distributions in Europe. Like Red Hat, it is a large distribution (on 5+ CDs and, recently, 2 DVDs as well). Free Eval (virtually identical to pro) dvd, or all 5 pro cds can be downloaded here. It features a unique configuration tool named YaST. Founding member of United Linux. Recently purchased by Novell.
• Xandros: Canadian based Xandros (based on the defunct Corel Linux) focuses on the desktop market and Windows compatibility. The Xandros distribution, unlike most others, may not be freely copied, as it contains proprietary software. Xandros is based on Debian and is designed to be compatible with Debian's dpkg package management system.
• YES Linux [2]: YES Linux (http://www.yeslinux.org) is a turnkey distribution that is specifically targeted to the SOHO. YES Linux provides SOHO's a way to have a complete internet presence including but not limited to a web and email server up and running in under 10 minutes.

Inactive or discontinued distributions

• Beehive. Last release 2002.
• College Linux: A Slackware-based distro from Robert Kennedy College, Delemont, Switzerland. Last release 2003.
• EvilEntity: A Slackware-based alternative to Microsoft's Windows. Last release 2003.
• Icepack Linux: A user-friendly, full-featured operating system, pre-configured, well structured and easy to work with (RPM-based). Last release 2003.
• LinuxXP: An easy-to-use distribution without the hassle of re-partitioning the hard drive and going through complicated processes of hardware configuration. Last release February 2004.
• Lycoris Desktop/LX: Fell down to one employee and then acquired by Mandriva.
• Mastodon Linux [3]: The last a.out Linux distribution.
• Randlix: A distribution fully compliant with the GPL but closed-source. Its whereabouts are unknown; the one English reference regarding it (according to Google) is located here
• Red Hat Linux: Split into Fedora Core and Red Hat Enterprise Linux. The last official release was Red Hat Linux 9.0 in March 2003.
• Softlanding Linux System: One of the earliest distributions, developed from 1992-1994; Slackware was originally based on it.
• ThizLinux [4]: A HongKong based distribution provide services to Great China. Last release 2003.
• United Linux: A group of distributors who banded together to build a common base distribution, based on SuSE. United Linux has now ceased.
• Yggdrasil: One of the oldest Linux distributions, not updated since 1995.

Special-purpose distributions

Some groups compile special purpose Linux distributions as turnkey firewalls, for embedded systems, and for other special purposes.

• Asterisk@Home: Basicly enables to quickly set up a VOIP server based on Asterisk™ Open Source PBX.
• Bootable business card distros
• Cooperative Linux: A distribution for running Linux on Microsoft Windows natively
• Coyote Linux: Router/firewall distribution
• DeMuDi: Multimedia distribution
• dyne:bolic: Multimedia distribution
• ELKS Linux: The Embeddable Linux Kernel Subset
• Eisfair [5]: small easy to install Internet-server
• Embedded Debian
• Embedix
• Familiar Linux: Distribution for iPAQ handhelds
• Fli4l: a single floppy ISDN, DSL and Ethernet-Router
• Flightlinux: A distribution for spacecraft
• FREESCO: a free replacement for commercial routers supporting up to 10 network cards and up to 10 modems.
• GeeXboX: Multimedia distribution
• Hikarunix: A distro solely for studying and playing the game of Go
• Linux floppydistro
• Gibraltar: Router/firewall distribution
• Hard Hat Linux: see MontaVista Linux
• IPCop: Router/firewall distribution
• iPodLinux: Embedded Linux firmware for the Apple iPod based on the µCLinux kernel
• KnoppMyth: Specialized Knoppix distribution for easy setup of the MythTV PVR software
• The Linux Router Project: Router distribution
• MontaVista Linux: embedded systems distro by MontaVista Software
• NASLite: a floppy-based linux designed to turn an old computer into a simple Network Attatched Storage device
• Nethack Linux [6]: floppy-based Linux for playing NetHack
• openMosix: a Linux kernel extension that links several single systems and forms one supercomputer
• SELinux: Security-Enhanced version of the Linux kernel (i.e., no distro as such) created by the NSA
• Sentry Firewall: A firewall, server or intrusion detection system distribution
• SmoothWall: Router/firewall distribution
• ClarkConnect: Router/firewall distribution
• Tinfoil Hat Linux: Bootable floppy distribution focusing on extreme security
• tomsrtbt: The distro's motto is "The most GNU/Linux on 1 floppy disk." Useful rescue floppy with support for most filesystems, network drivers, and scsi drivers.
• Trinux: Security tools distribution

Alternate platforms

Linux started life as an operating system for X86-compatible systems but has expanded to include numerous other computer processors. Various distributions cater to those other computer architectures.

• Linux on zSeries: IBM mainframes
• penguinppc.org [7]: Linux/ppc (POWER-based systems, e.g. IBM pSeries, iSeries, and newer Apple Macintosh)
• Linux/m68k [8]: Motorola 680x0 series (older Apple Macintosh, NeXT, etc.)
• UltraLinux [9]: SPARC and UltraSPARC based systems, e.g. Sun Fire servers.

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Reposted from wikipedia

General

	Creator	Producer	First public release date	Predecessor	Latest stable version	Cost (USD)	Preferred license	Target audience	Origin
Arch	Judd Vinet	dev team	March2002	none	0.7	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	Canada
Asianux	Miracle Linux, Red Flag Linux, Haansoft	dev team	June 2004	Red Hat Enterprise	2.0	Free	GPL	Server, good for Desktop	East Asia
Aurox	Software-Wydawnictwo Sp. z oo	Aurox Sp. z oo	September2002	Red Hat	10.2	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	Poland
CentOS	cAos Project	CentOS Project	May 2004	Red Hat Enterprise	4.1 / 3.5	Free	GPL	Desktop, Workstation, Server	USA
Debian	Ian Murdock	Debian Project	August1993	none	3.1r0 (sarge)	Free	any DFSG-free	Desktop, Workstation, Server	USA
DeMuDi	dev team	AGNULA	April 2002	Debian	1.2.1	Free	GPL	DAW, Desktop, Workstation	Europe
dyne:bolic	Jaromil		June 2001	none	1.4.1	Free	GPL	WindowsDAW, Desktop, Workstation users,	Italy
Fedora Core	Fedora Project		November2003	Fedora, Red Hat	4	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	USA
Frugalware	Miklós Vajna	dev team	September2004	Slackware	0.3rc1 (Trantor)	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	Hungary
Gentoo	Daniel Robbins	Gentoo Foundation, Inc.	March2002	none	2005.1	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	USA
GoboLinux	Hisham Muhammad, André Detsch	dev team	June 2002	none	012	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	Brazil
ImpiLinux	Gauteng Linux Users Group	ImpiLinux (Pty) Ltd.	November2003	Debian	2005 UP2	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	South Africa
Knoppix	Klaus Knopper	dev team	?	Debian	4.0.2	Free	GPL	Desktop, Workstation, Windows users	Germany
Linspire	Lindows.com, Inc.	Linspire, Inc	March2002	Debian	5-0	$49.95	GPL/Commercial	Desktop	USA
Lunar	Chuck Mead, Lunar Penguin Project	dev team	March2002	Sorcerer	1.5.1	Free	OSI Approved	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	USA
Lycoris Desktop/LX	Redmond Linux Corp.	Lycoris, Inc., Mandriva S.A.	December2001	Caldera OpenLinux	1.4	$40-$75	Lycoris License	Workstation	USA
Mandriva	Mandrakesoft S.A.	Mandriva S.A.	July 1998	Red Hat	Limited Edition 2005	Free (Download edition)	GPL	Desktop, Workstation, Server	France
MEPIS	Warren Woodford	MEPIS LLC.	September2003	Debian	SimplyMEPIS 3.3.1	Free (Download edition)	GPL	Desktop, Workstation, Server	USA
PCLinuxOS	Texstar	dev team	October2003	Mandriva	Preview 9.1	Free	GPL	Desktop	Texas, USA
PLD Linux Distribution	PLD Linux Distribution		November2002	none	1.0	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	Poland
Red Flag	Institute of Software, Chinese Academy of Sciences, NewMargin Venture Capital	Red Flag Software Co., Ltd.	September1999	Red Hat	4.1	Free, desktop version	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	China
Scientific	CERN, Fermilab, dev team		October2004	Fermi (LTS)	4.1 / 3.0.5	Free	GPL	Desktop, Workstation, Server	Switzerland, USA
Slackware	Patrick Volkerding	dev team	July 1993	SLS	10.2	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	USA
Source Mage	Ryan Abrams, Eric Schabell	dev team	June 2002	Sorcerer	0.9.3	Free	GPL	Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	N/A
SUSE	S.u.S.E. LLC	Novell, Inc.	March1994	Jurix	10.0	$59.95 Retail Package, available for free download	GPL	Desktop, Workstation, Server, Enthusiast	Germany
Symphony OS	Ryan Quinn	Ryan QuinnJason Spisak &	?	Knoppix	Alpha 4	Free	?	Desktop, Workstation	?
Ubuntu	Canonical Ltd.		October2004	Debian	5.04	Free	GPL	Desktop, Workstation, Enthusiast	Isle of Man
Ultima	Martin Ultima		February2005	Slackware	4	Free	GPL	Desktop, Workstation, Enthusiast, Server	United States
Xandros Desktop OS	Xandros Corp.	Xandros Inc.	October2002	Corel	3.0	$50-$90 or free for Open Circulation Edition.	Proprietary	Workstation, Server	Canada

Technical

	Default Linux Kernel(s)		Default file system	Other major file systems supported	Architectural support (first, primary platform)	Default online OS update tool	Default package management/ software installation tool	Main API and language for GUI applications	LSB compatible	POSIX conforming
	2.4.x	2.6.x
Arch	?	2.6.13	ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, Reiser4, UDF, XFS	x86 (i686)	Pacman	Pacman	none	No	Yes
Asianux	?	2.6.9	ext3	ReiserFS, XFS	x86, IA-64	none	RPM	none	Yes	Yes
Aurox	?	2.6.9	ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF	x86	yum	RPM, yum	none	Yes	Yes
CentOS	?	2.6.9-11	ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, NFS, UDF	x86 (i386), AMD64, IA-64, S/390, Alpha(beta), PowerPC(beta)	up2date	RPM	none	Yes	Yes
Debian	2.4.27	2.6.8	ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF, XFS	x86, 68k, Alpha, AMD64, ARM, IA-64, Mac/VME, MIPS, PA-RISC, PPC, SPARC, SPARC64, S/390	APT	dpkg, Synaptic, and APT	none	Yes	Yes
DeMuDi	?	2.6.12	ext3	FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF, XFS	x86	Synaptic, APT	Synaptic, dpkg, APT	none	Yes	Yes
dyne:bolic	2.4.26 (SMP, openMosix)	?	SquashFS, ext3	FAT, ISO 9660, SMB, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF	x86 (i586)	none	none	Fltk, FOX, GTK+, Qt	Yes	Yes
Fedora Core	?	2.6.11	ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, NFS, ReiserFS, UDF	x86 (i386), AMD64, PPC	up2date, yum, APT (limited)	RPM, yum	none	Yes	Yes
Frugalware	?	2.6.13	user determined	ext2, ext3, ReiserFS	x86 (i686), AMD64	Pacman	Pacman	none	No	Yes
Gentoo	2.4.30	2.6.12.5	user determined	ext2, ext3, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFSReiser4, UDF, XFS	x86, Alpha, AMD64, ARM, IA-64, MIPS, PA-RISC, PPC, PPC64, SPARC, SPARC64, SuperH, S/390	emerge	Portage	none	No	Yes
GoboLinux	?	2.6.11.9 (SMP)	ReiserFS	ext2, ext3, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, UDF, XFS	x86	Manager	Compile	Qt, Python	No	Yes
ImpiLinux	?	2.6.11.7	?	?	?	?	?	none	?	Yes
Knoppix	?	2.6.12.4	XFS	?	x86	APT	dpkg and APT	Various	Yes	Yes
Linspire	?	2.6.10	ReiserFS	ext2, ext3, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, UDF, Reiser4, XFS	x86	CNR "click and run" (apt-get)	CNR "click and run" (apt-get)	Qt	?	Yes
Lunar	2.4.31	2.6.12	user determined	ext2, ext3, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF, XFS	x86 (i686)	lin	lin	none	?	Yes
Lycoris Desktop/LX	2.4.27	?	ext3	?	x86	Update Wizard	RPM/Software Installer	Qt	?	Yes
Mandriva	?	2.6.11.6	ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF, XFS	x86 (i586), AMD64, PPC	urpmi	RpmDrake	none	Yes	Yes
MEPIS	?	2.6.10	ReiserFS/ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, UDF, XFS	x86 (i586)	APT	dpkg and APT	none	Yes	Yes
PCLinuxOS	?	2.6.11	ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF, XFS	x86 (i586)	APT/Synaptic	RPM	none	Yes	Yes
PLD Linux Distribution	?	?	ext3/ext2/XFS	FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF	x86 (i386, i586, i686, Athlon), Alpha, AMD64, PPC, SPARC, SPARC64	Poldek	Poldek, RPM	none	Yes	Yes
Red Flag	2.4.26	?	ext3	ISO 9660, JFS, ReiserFS	x86	Red Flag Installer System	RPM	none	No	Yes
Scientific	?	2.6.9	ext3	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, NFS, UDF, UDF, XFS	x86, IA-64	APT/YUM	RPM	none	Yes	Yes
Slackware	2.4.31	?	ReiserFS, ext3/ext2	FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, UDF, XFS	x86, IA-64, S/390	Swaret, Slapt-get, many other not official	installpkg and upgradepkg	none	Yes	Yes
Source Mage	2.4.25	2.6.8.1	ext2	ext2, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, UDF, XFS	x86 (i686), AMD64, PPC	Sorcery Package Manager	Sorcery Package Manager	none	?	Yes
SUSE	?	2.6.11.4	ReiserFS	ext2, ext3, FAT, ISO 9660, JFSRO), NFS, NTFS, Reiser4, UDF, XFS (	x86, AMD64, IA-64, PPC, S/390	YaST2	RPM, YaST	none	Yes	Yes
Symphony OS	?	?	ReiserFS	?	x86	APT	APT	Orchestra	?	Yes
Ubuntu	?	2.6.10	ext3	ext2, JFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, XFS	x86, AMD64, PPC	Ubuntu Update Manager (APT)	Synaptic Package Manager	none	Yes	Yes
Ultima	2.4.31	?	ext3, ReiserFS	ext2, ext3, FAT, JFS, NTFS, ReiserFS, XFS	i486	ulupdate	See Slackware	none	Yes	Yes
Xandros Desktop OS	?	2.6.9	ReiserFS	ext2, ext3, FAT, ISO 9660, JFS, NFS, NTFS, UDF, XFS,	x86	Xandros Networks (APT)	Xandros Networks (APT)	Qt	?	Yes

Features

	Packages	GUI installation procedure?	Default Filesystem Browser(s)	Default desktop environment	Default window manager	Default GUI styling	Default Office Suite
Arch	about 3500	Yes	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)
Asianux	?	No	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	?	none (OpenOffice.org available)
Aurox	about 3000	Yes	Nautilus	GNOME	Metacity	Bluecurve theme	none (all optional)
CentOS	about 5000?	Yes	Nautilus	GNOME	Metacity	Bluecurve theme	OpenOffice.org
Debian	about 17000	No	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)
DeMuDi	about 875	Yes	Nautilus	GNOME	Metacity	DeMuDi	none
dyne:bolic	?	Yes	Xfe	GNUStep	WindowMaker	Dynebolic	OpenOffice.org (optional)
Fedora Core	about 5000	Yes	Nautilus	GNOME	Metacity	ClearLooks Bluecurve theme for KDE theme for GNOME	OpenOffice.org/KOffice/GNOME Office
Frugalware	about 3000	Yes	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)
Gentoo	about 10000	Yes	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)
GoboLinux	about 1500	Yes	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	Plastik theme	OpenOffice.org
ImpiLinux	?	No	?	KDE	?	?	OpenOffice.org
Knoppix	CD: about 1000 DVD: about 2600	No	none (all optional)	KDE	kwin	Keramik	OpenOffice.org/KOffice/GNOME Office
Linspire	?	Yes	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	Linspire's	OpenOffice.org/KOffice/GNOME Office
Lunar	2293 (as of Sept 10, 2005)	Yes	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)
Lycoris Desktop/LX	?	Yes	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	Lycoris' (Windows-esque).	KOffice
Mandriva	106891	Yes	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	Mandrakegalaxy theme	OpenOffice.org
MEPIS	?	Yes	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	Plastik theme	OpenOffice.org
PCLinuxOS	4321 (Sept. 2005)	Yes	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	PCLinuxOS custom theme	OpenOffice.org
PLD Linux Distribution	?	No	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	KOffice
Red Flag	?	Yes	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	Red Flag (Windows XP-like)	OpenOffice.org
Scientific	?	Yes	Nautilus	GNOME	Metacity	Bluecurve theme	OpenOffice.org
Slackware	?	Yes	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)
Source Mage	4235 (2005-08-11)	Yes	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)	none (all optional)
SUSE	4000	Yes	Konqueror	KDE	kwin	SuSE Theme	OpenOffice.org/KOffice/GNOME Office
Symphony OS	?	Yes	ROX-filer	Mezzo	fvwm	?	Abiword
Ubuntu	3180 by default2, maximally 16271	Yes	Nautilus	GNOME	Metacity	Human theme	OpenOffice.org/GNOME Office
Ultima	?	Yes	Konqueror (optional)	KDE (and others, all optional)	Enlightenment (and others, all optional)	None (all optional)	OpenOffice.org, KOffice, AbiWord (all optional)
Xandros Desktop OS	?	Yes	Xandros File Manager	KDE	kwin	Xandros'	OpenOffice.org/KOffice

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