| Linux XP Desktop project debuts English version |
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.)
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