Easy Linux
Written: Jan 31 '01 (Updated Jan 31 '01)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Ease of install, easy to configure, thousands of applications to choose from
Cons: Missing the Linux experience, limited hardware support.
The Bottom Line: I recommend it to people transitioning to Linux from Windows, or very lazy Linux users.
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| jpeschka's Full Review: Mandrake Linux |
I became interested in Linux a few months ago when I had become sick of an unnamed Operating System (OS) and was looking for new opportunities to explore. I began researching the different OSs available, and I became interested in Linux (it will run on your PC).
First, why did I choose Linux?
It's a lightweight, portable operating system. I can compile and use UNIX software, as well as linux and BSD software. It's similar enough to UNIX that I can learn UNIX without needing a degree in computer science. It is powerful enough to compete with certain other OSs and is compatible with a vast number of systems and file formats.
Second, why Mandrake?
I took a careful look at all of the Linux distributions and their strengths and weaknesses, as well as their purposes. What I found is that each distribution seems to be suited for a different type of user. I found that Mandrake was very well suited for users who are switching over from Windows.
Mandrake is well suited for this task for several reasons.
1) It is the closest version of Linux to Plug N Play. It autodetected and configured all of my hardware (except a very bizarre onboard soundcard that I have), and it correctly assigned my monitor settings. This was a big plus in my book.
Mandrake was also incredibly easy to install. It gave the option for automated install, or a custom install. The first time I installed it, I went through an automatic install. However, I have since begun to customize my install.
2) Mandrake comes packaged with a massive amount of software. More than you could ever need, I am sure. The distribution that can be purchased from MacMillan Publishing includes Star Office (easily the equivalent to Microsoft Office), a variety of other office applications, some games, several web browsers, and around 500 other miscellaneous applications. Although there are multiple applications that serve the same purpose, I feel that this allows the user to become knowledgable of the variation of functionality that exists in the Open Source world and assists in coming closer to assembling customized distributions.
The complaints I have about this product are few. There is not enough support for a wide range of obscure hardware devices. This is, however, nothing new to the Linux world. Additionally, Mandrake is the easiest Linux distribution to install. As such, it makes an easy entry from the PC world, however it also takes away some of the experience of learning Linux. But that can easily be remedied by tinkering with the computer.
All in all, I am very satisfied with Linux Mandrake as a good starting Linux distribution, especially for those switching from Windows.
Although I paid for my copy, it can be purchased through cheapbytes.com for the price of the media, or it can be downloaded for free. I recommend the MacMillan Publishing version because it comes with 4 books on CD-ROM.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
jpeschka
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Member: Jeremiah Peschka
Location: Columbus, OH
Reviews written: 21
Trusted by: 7 members
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