Linux XP Desktop project debuts English version

Keywords: Match:

Sep. 21, 2006

Linux XP Desktop 2006, a Russian-language Linux distribution that mimics Windows XP, on Sept. 21 introduced its first English-language version. The Russia-based project claims that its distribution provides "extensive" compatibility with Windows XP, including an XP-like theme and icons, plus the ability to run thousands of Windows applications.

Quoting from the project's website: "Need Internet Explorer or other Windows applications? Just install and run them under Linux XP Desktop! Thousands of Windows applications are tested for compatibility. You can use data from your Windows data drives, share folders or even logon to Windows domains."

Version SR2 Linux XP Desktop 2006 is based on a 2.6.15 Linux kernel in conjunction with a customized edition of GNOME. The distribution is derived from Fedora, the project said.

In addition to support for English, other key new features in the latest release, designated SR2, according to the team, include:

A new, experimental network manager
System information dialogue
Microsoft Active Directory integration
System updates dialogue
Upgrades of several major applications

Standard features include:

Supports both GNOME Office and OpenOffice.org, but neither is bundled with the distro
Evolution 2.0.3 email client
GAIM 1.3 messenger
GIMP 2.2.6 graphics editor
cdrtools 2.01.1 CD-burning software

Linux XP Professional Edition is described by the project team as a universal and secure operating system for Russian and English speakers, designed for home and business use. It's based on freely available sources from Red Hat Linux and Fedora Core.

Availability

You can download a "trial" version of the 620MB English-language edition iso here (direct link to iso download). Other download mirrors may be available here.

Screenshots are available here. A review of an earlier version is available on TuxMachines.org, here.

Activation key good for one system only?

An "activation key" costs about $40. The project's website indicates that the "license key (serial number) allows you to register your Linux XP Desktop 2006 copy (infinite runs number) and to get official updates and technical support from our team."

The project had not responded by publication time to DesktopLinux.com's inquiry regarding the nature of the limitations of the free iso download, other than updates and technical support, although "infinite runs number" appears to imply that the trial version will cease booting after some specific number of boots. (Rumor has it that after 99 boots, the OS will no longer load, and that the activation key is only usable on a single system.)

Related stories:

(Click here for further information)

7 Advantages of D2D Backup
For decades, tape has been the backup medium of choice. But, now, disk-to-disk (D2D) backup is gaining in favor. Learn why you should make the move in this whitepaper.

4 Legal Reasons to Control Internet Access
The Internet is obviously a valuable resource for many organizations. However, many are exposed to legal liability concerns because they fail to control Internet access. Learn if you're safe in this white paper.

Rapidly Resolve J2EE Application Problems
Whether you are in the process of building J2EE applications or have J2EE applications already running in production, you must ensure that they deliver the expected ROI. Learn how in this white paper.

Load Testing 2.0 for Web 2.0
There are many unknowns in stress testing Web 2.0 applications. Find out how to test the performance of Web 2.0 in this white paper.

Build Better Games Online
For the game infrastructure providers, life is complex. Making money from games has become more complicated. Why? Find out in this white paper.

Building a Virtual Infrastructure from Servers to Storage
This white paper discusses the virtual storage solutions that reduce cost, increase storage utilization, and address the challenges of backing up and restoring Server environments.

Gaining Faster Wireless Connections with WiMAX
Welcome to what is quickly becoming the hyperconnected world where anything that would benefit from being connected to the network will be connected. Learn more in this white paper.

Is Your Desktop a Security Threat?
The new wave of sophisticated crimeware not only targets specific companies, but also targets desktops and laptops as backdoor entryways into those business’ operations and resources. Learn how to stay safe in this white paper.

Increasing SAN Reliability by 100 Percent
Storage area networks (SAN) are a strong part of storage plans. Learn how to increase your reliability and uptime by 100 percent in this case study.

Got a HOT tip? please tell us!

ADVERTISEMENT
(Advertise here)

Desktop Linux books Join our Desktop Linux discussion forums: • Moving to Linux • Linux/Windows debate! • Linux Q&A . . . and more Linux vs. Windows • in the enterprise • in gadgets & devices	Most popular recent stories: • A Vista vs. Linux matchup • Choosing a desktop Linux distro • Linus versus GNOME • Why Windows wins and Linux loses • The best free desktop Linux • Why Windows Vista will suck • 2006 Desktop Linux year in review • The well-tempered Debian desktop • Here come the Dell Linux desktops, laptops • Seven Linux distros fight over one old ThinkPad • Putting openSUSE 10.2 through its paces • Results from the 2006 Desktop Linux Survey

BREAKING NEWS

• Linux gets security black eye
• Microsoft frees poor children from Linux struggles
• Commercial installer adds Windows game emulator
• Linux wins big in financial trading
• Fedora 9 KDE 4.0 features reviewed
• Linux gains action RPG
• Hats off to Fedora 9
• Linux for the self-employed
• CNR supports Linux Mint, adds Weatherbug
• Ubuntu ported to PDA
• Sample chapter available for new Scalix book
• Sun launches OpenSolaris
• EeePC to gain Linux content aggregation tool
• A Windows-like install for Hardy Heron
• Ubuntu 8, Fedora 9 package OpenJDK

Linux-Watch headlines:
• Verizon chooses Linux "platform of choice"
• Hats off to Fedora 9
• Running a small business on desktop Linux
• Sun launches OpenSolaris
• Via tiptoes toward openness
• Linux certification comes to Italy
• Installing Ubuntu Hardy Heron as a web hosting server
• Black Duck Buys Koders
• Open source conference co-locates with Ubuntu show
• Ubuntu 8.04 ready to challenge Windows

Visit the...

news feed

Use of this site is governed by our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Except where otherwise specified, the contents of this site are copyright © 1999-2008 Ziff Davis Enterprise Holdings Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of Ziff Davis Enterprise is prohibited. Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.