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<!DOCTYPE article PUBLIC "-//OASIS//DTD DocBook V4.1//EN">
<!-- English-language GNU/Linux distributions on CD-ROM"",
Copyright (C) 2001 Martin S. Wheeler
http://www.startext.co.uk/msw/ -->
<article lang="en" id="EN-distributions">
<title>English-language GNU/Linux distributions on CD-ROM</title>
<!--
subtitle.(formerly: .emphasis.The Linux distributions HOWTO./emphasis.)./subtitle
-->
<articleinfo>
<title>English-language GNU/Linux distributions on CD-ROM</title>
<subtitle>(formerly: <emphasis>The Linux distributions HOWTO</emphasis>)</subtitle>
<author>
<firstname>Martin</firstName>
<surname>Wheeler</surname>
<othername role="mi">S.</othername>
<affiliation>
<orgname><emphasis role="strong">
<ulink url="http://www.startext.co.uk/">StarTEXT</ulink>
</emphasis> document engineering</orgname>
<address>
<city>Glastonbury</city>
<country>England, UK</country>
<email>
<ulink url="mailto:msw@startext.co.uk">msw@startext.co.uk</ulink>
</email>
</address>
</affiliation>
</author>
<revhistory>
<revision>
<revnumber>v7.0</revnumber>
<date>2000-01-31</date>
<authorinitials>
<ulink url="mailto:msw@startext.co.uk">&nbsp;msw</ulink>
</authorinitials>
</revision>
</revhistory>
<!-- shouldn't this be removed? -->
<copyright>
<year>2001</year>
<holder>Martin S. Wheeler</holder>
</copyright>
<abstract>
<para>
This document is intended to show prospective
users or administrators of a GNU/Linux system the range of
choices open to them when deciding on a
distribution for the first time. It also aims to help experienced
users track the state of the GNU/Linux distributions
market.
It emphatically does <emphasis>not</emphasis>
aim to be a complete list of all GNU/Linux distributions for all
platforms and in all languages. The focus is on popular
English-language distributions; specifically compiled for the Intel platform;
available on CD-ROM; and easily accessible to the first-time user.
</para>
<para>
<important>
<para>
<emphasis role="strong">Archived Document Notice: </emphasis>
This document has been archived by the LDP. It is no longer
being actively maintained and has been replaced by the
<ulink url="../CD-Distributions-EN-HOWTO/">English-language
GNU/Linux distributions on CD-ROM</ulink>.
</para>
</important>
</para>
</abstract>
</articleinfo>
<sect1 id="i-scope">
<title>Introduction</title>
<sect2 id="a-background">
<title>Background</title>
<para>
There is no one single authoritative master distribution of the
GNU/Linux operating system software suites. Instead, there are many
such distributions (over one hundred and sixty at the last count) &mdash;
available over the net via anonymous FTP; by mail order from various
emporia; directly from
the shelves of your local bookshop or computer store; as a boxed set
or as loose CD-ROMs; as an insert in the back of a book; or as a cover
disk on specialist magazines.
</para>
<para>
The purpose of this document is to provide short summaries of those
English-language GNU/Linux CD-ROM distributions available as loose or as
boxed CD-ROM sets (with or without manuals); and to provide
pointers for the reader to find more information. Distributions
in <ulink url="http://www.linux.org/dist/nonenglish.html">languages
other than English</ulink> also exist, but are outwith the scope of
this document.
</para>
<para>
The information presented here is in no way complete; i.e. there are
certainly more English-language distributions than all those listed
in this document. By the nature of open
source software, anyone who changes anything in their GNU/Linux
installation and then makes that particular version available to others
can be said to be in some way creating a `distribution'.
A document such as this has to choose somewhere to draw the line
between what is, and what is not, suitable for consideration as a
distinct distribution in its own right.
The editors have chosen `available on CD' as their simple criterion.
</para>
<para>
Note that this is
by no means the authoritative definition of a distribution. There are
numerous small distributions available on floppy disk that offer things the
big distributions don't &mdash; not the least of which is smallness
itself. A good list of such distributions is to be found at:
<ulink url="http://www.toms.net/">Tom's</ulink> rescue and boot disk site; or the
<ulink url="http://www.fokus.gmd.de/linux-distrib-small.html">small distributions</ulink>
site.
</para>
<para>
The rationale behind producing this document in the first place &mdash; given that
there are very many similar texts to be found on the WWW at any one moment
&mdash; is to provide a distributable version of the same information, accessible by
other than online means. (Not everyone who could use this information has access
to a telephone line or to the web.)
</para>
<para>
If you are associated with a CD-ROM distribution we don't list, please see
<xref linkend="v-submit">
near the end of this document for information on making a submission.
It's easy to do and should take less than five minutes.
</para>
<para>
For a more complete list of distributions (albeit with perhaps slightly less
information on each), see the
<ulink url="http://www.linuxhq.com/dist-index.html">
Linux HQ distributions list</ulink>; or the
<ulink url="http://www.fokus.gmd.de/linux-distrib-full.html">full distributions</ulink>
site.
</para>
<para>
<emphasis role="strong">Disclaimer:</emphasis>
We make absolutely <emphasis>no</emphasis> guarantee as to the
correctness of the information, prices, and ordering details given
in this document. Check the date-last-modified field of each distribution
to get an idea of its currency, then go to the vendor's web page for
up-to-date information. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, all
GNU/Linux software comes with <emphasis>ABSOLUTELY NO WARRANTY</emphasis>.
</para>
<para>
The editor tries to stick to facts in most of this document, but
&mdash; inevitably &mdash; has personal opinions on the state of the Linux market.
You can read these under <xref linkend="e-personalopinions">.
</para>
<para>
<emphasis role="strong">Personal disclaimer:</emphasis>
I <emphasis>[msw]</emphasis> have no financial connection with any Linux
vendor, nor have I accepted any remuneration or perquisites from
any vendor. No free disks for review; not even as much as a T-shirt.
(But hey &mdash; I'm always open to offers. XXL.)
</para>
</sect2>
<sect2 id="b-newversions">
<title>New versions of this document</title>
<para>
This document will be regularly posted to the newsgroup
<literal>comp.os.linux.answers</literal>
The document is also archived on a number
of Linux FTP sites, including <literal>metalab.unc.edu</literal> in
<literal>pub/Linux/docs/HOWTO</literal>.
</para>
<para>
You can also view the latest version of this document on the World
Wide Web via the url
<ulink url="http://www.startext.co.uk/msw/NEW_Distributions-HOWTO/index.html">
http://www.startext.co.uk/msw/NEW_Distributions-HOWTO/index.html</ulink>.
</para>
<para>
Feel free to mail any questions or comments about this document to the
current editor, Martin Wheeler
(<ulink url="mailto:msw@startext.co.uk"><literal>msw@startext.co.uk</literal></ulink>).
Please do <emphasis>not</emphasis>
send general Linux questions or requests for help in
choosing a distribution (unless you're willing to hire me at my
commercial consultancy rates); I don't have time to deal with them;
and I try to put everything I know about choosing a suitable
distribution into this document.
</para>
</sect2>
<sect2 id="c-recentchanges">
<title>Recent changes</title>
<para>
- details of individual distributions brought up to date
</para>
<para>
- text markup upgraded from DocBook 3.0 to DocBook 4.1
</para>
<para>
- division of distributions into two lists
</para>
<para>
- increased number of distributions covered
</para>
<para>
- inclusion of inline images for company logos
</para>
<para>
- added scope for inclusion of reviewers' remarks
</para>
<para>
The editorship and maintenance of this document was taken over from
Eric S. Raymond (<ulink url="esr@thyrsus.com"><literal>esr@thyrsus.com</literal></ulink>)
by Martin Wheeler in
January 2001; and although much of the original text has been retained, all
controversial statements and opinions should be considered solely
those of the current editor.
</para>
</sect2>
<sect2 id="d-marketoverview">
<title>Overview of the Linux market</title>
<para>
In the beginning (say 1993), a GNU/Linux distribution was something
you downloaded off the Internet onto floppies. Installation was a
lengthy, laborious and error-prone process;
repeated frustrations due to bad (magnetic-disk) media were common.
</para>
<para>
Then came cheap CD-ROM drives, and the cheap-to-produce CD-ROM &mdash;
a medium ideally suited for shipping large volumes of operating-system
software at low cost. A whole mini-industry has now built up around
commercial CD-ROM GNU/Linuxes; and because the vendors have the actual
cash flow to fund support and marketing these days, they have come
to dominate the Linux world. Debian is now the only significant
non-commercial release; and despite the ease with which software may
be downloaded from the internet these days, even it seems to be
propagated to new users largely by the ubiquitous CD-ROM.
</para>
<para>
(In all fairness, it should be noted here that the rise in popularity of
GNU/Linux systems over the past five years has been due in no small measure
to the increased number of applications packages bundled with each distribution
&mdash; from circa 400 in 1995 to just under 4,000 in 2000. What used to be
distributable on a single CD is now usually spread over four or six disks. Downloading
a `full' distribution is no longer a real option for most users, whether
experienced or novice.)
</para>
<para>
Most of the CD-ROM distributions (including Slackware, S.u.S.E. Debian and
Red Hat) are still available for FTP from the home sites of their
developers. But if you have a CD-ROM drive and a few euros to
spare, you will have many more distributions and more support options to
choose from (and you'll usually get some well-produced and useful paper
documentation with it). For more on the details of installation, see
the <emphasis>Linux Installation HOWTO</emphasis>,
(<ulink url="http://www.linuxdoc.org/HOWTO/Installation-HOWTO/index.html">http://www.linuxdoc.org/HOWTO/Installation-HOWTO/index.html</ulink>).
</para>
<para>
Prices for CD-ROM distributions of Intel GNU/Linux software start at
around 4 or 5 euros for a single disk, and can go all the way up to EUR 100
for a boxed set, with manuals. (And those
extra euros can buy real value.) Many vendors also sell subscription deals
that will lower your cost-per-CD for regular updates over the
subscription period. Prices may be even higher when commercial packages
(e.g. graphics or word-processing applications) are bundled in with the basic
distribution.
</para>
<para>
Price correlates with features and quality pretty well (as one
would expect in a very competitive market). I would personally recommend
paying the few extra euros for a top-drawer original CD-ROM
distribution; this will pay off in fewer installation and
administration hassles down the road. (For example, installation of S.u.S.E. 7.0
from DVD now takes little over 20 mins on a fairly run-of-the-mill
machine, with automatic detection of most network and video cards.
Compare that with the one-and-a-half hours it took me to install my first
copy of Linux-FT, which &mdash; at the time &mdash; I thought was a dream installation.)
</para>
<para>
Making good choices is also much simpler than it used to be. In 1995-96
the Linux market underwent a serious shakeout, with only a very few
commercial distributions emerging as leaders, while the weaker ones
disappeared or stagnated. (My own personal favourite at the time &mdash;
Linux-FT &mdash; went down without trace. RIP Unifix &mdash; welcome S.u.S.E.)
The toll among general-purpose
non-commercial distributions has been even fiercer. Essentially,
only Debian (and derivatives) survive in this role.
</para>
<para>
As a result, the three-tier structure of primary distribution
builders, value-added repackagers, and bottom-feeding CD shovellers
that used to define the market has nearly collapsed. To be
competitive in the third millennium, a Linux vendor (whether
commercial or non-commercial) has to offer reasonable support and
behave like a primary distribution builder, whether it really is one
or not.
</para>
<para>
As long as you look for a recent freeze date though, it is
pretty hard to get stuck with a duff distribution these days.
</para>
</sect2>
<sect2 id="e-personalopinions">
<title>Personal opinions</title>
<mediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="msw1.png" format="png">
</imageobject>
<caption>
<para>
<emphasis>Martin Wheeler</emphasis>
</para>
</caption>
</mediaobject>
<para>
In this section, I present my own opinions, for what they're worth.
However, there is no substitute for making your own evaluation, based
on experience &mdash; plus the data in this guide, of course. These opinions are
intended more to show up any possible
personal bias than as a guide to what anyone else should do.
</para>
<para>
In the beginning was Slackware &mdash; usually to be found along with a
few other goodies on the cover disks of the more enlightened
magazines. But from the beginnings of the Linux (CD-ROM) industry
circa 1993 until the autumn of 1995, Yggdrasil was top distribution &mdash; it
essentially founded the CD-ROM market in North America, then set the
standard for everybody else. (In Europe of course, Slackware reigned.)
The previous editor of this document, Eric Raymond, described how he used
Yggdrasil, and recommended it over commercial System V versions for
its "superior documentation, large collection of applications, and
enlightened policy of sending free releases to open-source authors,
then dedicating part of the price of each CD-ROM to financially
supporting free software". Unfortunately, Yggdrasil hasn't issued
a new release since 1995, and they've now been left well behind by the market.
</para>
<para>
Personally, after playing with Slackware for a while, I toyed with the
idea of Yggdrasil, but instead moved on to a distribution which gave me
what I wanted at the time &mdash; my own personal webserver; an X interface;
and enough development and SGML editing tools to keep me happy for years.
(Plus a rather nice system which loaded and unloaded applications for me
automatically, according to how much I used them.)
Unfortunately, Linux-FT was not to endure; and in 1996 I finally settled on
Debian as my ideal distribution, as I had come to want more, and was also a
far more experienced user by then. There is an important point to be noted by
first-time buyers here &mdash; go for whatever distribution gives you what you
most want at the time; then change with your needs. The financial costs
incurred in doing this are negligible.</para>
<para>
In previous versions of this document, Eric Raymond wrote:
"I now run Red Hat Linux and am quite satisfied with it. They have
successfully created a de-facto standard in distribution packaging
with RPM (now also used by SuSE and Mandrake, among others). They've
made most of the right moves at the right times and I consider them
the current market leader."
</para>
<para>
This may still be true for North America; but in Europe Red Hat is
rapidly falling into third place behind the very much more popular
S.u.S.E. and Mandrake distributions; and the "standard" RPM application
packaging is turning out to be not quite as standard as one might wish
for &mdash; as RPMs from one distribution do not necessarily always transfer
to another.
</para>
<para>
Eric himself has now given up vanilla Red Hat and has written to tell me he's been
running the KRUD version for the last year and is very happy with it. It just goes
to show...
</para>
<para>
However, one of the major influences in decision-making
for most newcomers to GNU/Linux is not so much the number of useful
packages included with any distribution, but the perceived sexiness of the user
interface it uses as its default. (All distributions will run all X
desktop environments and window managers, given the right hardware resources
&mdash; but not all distributions are set to default on startup to the most attractive
screen presentation for the novice user.) Be aware of this when evaluating
different distributions &mdash; it is surprising how many potential new users interpret
the sizzle as the steak.
</para>
<para>
But if you're ideologically wedded to using a non-commercial distribution,
Debian seems to be the clear choice: the only one left with
a serious support team behind it, and a rock-solid package management
system, allowing trouble-free translation to and from other package
management systems.
</para>
<para>
Certainly, in my own experience, Debian suits my personal needs best.
Nevertheless, despite any efforts I might make to persuade them otherwise,
my commercial clients invariably plump for S.u.S.E. or Mandrake as their
choice of first distribution. (As ever, it's a case of horses for courses.)
</para>
<para>
These opinions should certainly not be interpreted as an
unconditional endorsement; different Linux distributions are
optimized for different needs, and yours may well be best served by
some other distribution (especially if, unlike us, you're mainly a
DOS user and are looking for a distribution tuned for dual-boot
systems and being launched from DOS).
</para>
<para>
Furthermore, industry standing is volatile. By the time you read
this, Debian, S.u.S.E. or Red Hat may well have fallen out of favour
or fashion, and been displaced by hungrier newcomers offering more
and better features. (And the obligatory sexier graphical interface
of course.)
</para>
</sect2>
</sect1>
<sect1 id="ii-topten">
<title>Best-known distributions</title>
<para>
<emphasis>(listed in alphabetical order)</emphasis>
</para>
<para>
The handful of distributions listed here are those which are most widely
known by the general public, or referred to most
often by the specialist media, or those most commonly found in retail
outlets in English-speaking countries.
What exact sales percentage of the total GNU/Linux distributions market
they represent is unknown &mdash; but it is certainly extremely high. Between
them, they account for almost all that the (generally uninformed) public
knows about "Linux".
</para>
<!-- *** Caldera OpenLinux ****************************************** -->
<sect2 id="Caldera">
<title>Caldera OpenLinux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Caldera OpenLinux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
Caldera, Inc.
633 South 550 East
Provo, Utah 84606
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
E-mail: <ulink url="mailto:info@caldera.com">info@caldera.com</ulink>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.caldera.com/">http://www.caldera.com/</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.caldera.com">ftp://ftp.caldera.com</ulink>
Vox: (801)-377-7678
Fax: (801)-377-8752
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="caldera.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Caldera logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
Caldera is shipping OpenLinux 1.2 in a three-tiered family of
products: OpenLinux Lite, OpenLinux Base, and OpenLinux Standard.
</para>
<para>
OpenLinux Lite is a freely available evaluation of the OpenLinux
product (it includes a 90-day evaluation of the Caldera integrated
desktop &mdash; the full licensed version of the desktop is included in the
Base and Standard products). OpenLinux Lite can be downloaded from
Caldera's ftp site, or obtained on CD for the cost of shipping. It
is also designed for use by book and software publishers to provide
a commercially stable Linux offering with their books and software
products.
</para>
<para>
OpenLinux Base contains everything that is in Lite plus it is a
complete, easy-to-install Linux operating system, with integrated
desktop, Internet client and server components, and Intranet
connectivity. OpenLinux Base includes Netscape Navigator and full
documentation.
</para>
<para>
OpenLinux Standard includes what is in Base plus more high-end, name
brand, commercial software components (such as Netscape FastTrack Web
Server, Netscape Navigator Gold Web browser and authoring tools,
ADABAS D database, StarOffice productivity suite, Caldera OpenDOS, and
NetWare client and administration tools).
</para>
<para>
All three tiers of the OpenLinux 1.2 release are currently available.
</para>
<para>
With Caldera OpenLinux, you can see a whole world of powerful
new computing, even the power of a UNIX workstation on your PC!
By using a Linux kernel, OpenLinux gives you speed and stability
that compare to systems costing thousands of dollars. Open Linux
also gives you:
</para>
<para>
<itemizedlist>
<listitem>
<para>
Real multi-tasking runs many text or graphical applications at
once; no application can cause another to crash, unlike less robust
systems.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
The Linux 2.0 kernel gives super-fast TCP/IP access to the
Internet, plus loadable device drivers, for the most efficient use
of your system resources.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Easy-to-follow, quick installation with menu-based choices and
auto-detection of your hardware make installation a snap on most
systems. The Getting Started Guide (included) provides a
step-by-step illustrated procedure, with troubleshooting tips.
</para>
</listitem>
</itemizedlist>
</para>
<para>
No other Linux system includes a complete, integrated desktop
interface with configuration tools and graphical editor. Its
powerful drag-and-drop capabilities come pre-configured with
thousands of icons and application settings. The Desktop provides a
convenient place where you can store your favorite programs and
data files for instant access. The Desktop gives you:
</para>
<para>
<itemizedlist>
<listitem>
<para>
Drag-and-drop launching of programs with data files.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
An integrated graphical text editor.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Easy access to an array of powerful system configuration tools.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
A configurable icon bar, custom layouts, and preference settings.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Powerful file management using drag-and-drop or graphical dialogs.
</para>
</listitem>
</itemizedlist>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<literallayout>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.caldera.com/">http://www.caldera.com/</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.caldera.com">ftp://ftp.caldera.com</ulink>
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
By e-mail with PGP key, by phone, by fax, or by conventional mail.
Full ordering details are at
<ulink url="http://www.caldera.com/mpro/orinfo/orderinfo.html">
http://www.caldera.com/mpro/orinfo/orderinfo.html</ulink>.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Caldera is one of the only Linux distributors to offer E-mail and
telephone support. OpenLinux Base (E-mail only) and Standard
(Telephone and E-mail) users are fully supported (Standard users
receive 5 free incident calls during the first 30 days). There is
no technical support for the Lite product.
</para>
<para>
OpenLinux Base and Standard ship with full licensed versions of the
Caldera Desktop, which do not expire. OpenLinux Lite ships with a
90-day evaluation version of the Desktop.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
21 January 2001
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** Debian GNU/Linux ******************************************* -->
<sect2 id="Debian">
<title>Debian GNU/Linux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Debian GNU/Linux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
Software in the Public Interest, Inc.
PO Box 1326
Boston, Ma. 02117 USA
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@debian.org">info@debian.org</ulink>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.debian.org/">http://www.debian.org/</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.debian.org/debian">ftp://ftp.debian.org/debian</ulink>
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="debian.jpg">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Debian logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
Debian GNU/Linux is the result of a volunteer effort to create a
high-quality non-commercial Linux distribution. Debian GNU/Linux 2.2
is a complete and fully-functional Unix-compatible operating system
for the personal computer. It contains around 4000 packages, making
it by far the largest free software distribution.
</para>
<para>
Debian GNU/Linux is available for the IBM PC architecture
(386/486/Pentium), m68k, SPARC, Alpha, PowerPC, and ARM. Ports to
MIPS, HP PA-RISC, IA64 and GNU/Hurd are under way.
</para>
<para>
Debian GNU/Linux is an easy-to-upgrade distribution that consists of
freely redistributable software from a number of different sources and
systems. Non-free packages may also obtained, making Debian a
well-rounded system.
</para>
<para>
The benefits of Debian GNU/Linux are its upgradability, well-defined
dependencies between packages, and its open development. It is the
only GNU/Linux distribution that is being developed co-operatively by
many individuals over the Internet, in the same spirit as the Linux kernel and
other open-source operating systems. More than 500 package maintainers
are working on over 5000 packages and improving Debian GNU/Linux. A
sophisticated bug tracking system allows users to easily report bugs
and security concerns which are quickly dealt with by the Debian
community. A command-line tool, 'apt-get', can be used to dynamically
upgrade your system from the large Debian archive network.
</para>
<para>
Debian GNU/Linux is a very dynamic distribution, although it does prefer
well-tested stability to having the very latest available. Major releases
are generally made about every year, although the Debian archives are
updated daily; and upgrading discrete elements of the system is a common and
supported operation.
</para>
<para>
For more information about Debian GNU/Linux, please visit our World Wide
Web page at <ulink url="http://www.debian.org/">http://www.debian.org/</ulink>.
There is also a book, <emphasis>Running Debian GNU/Linux</emphasis>, from
O'Reilly & Associates.
</para>
<para>
If you're interested in joining this project, you are invited to subscribe to
either <literal>debian-user@lists.debian.org</literal>, or
<literal>debian-devel@lists.debian.org</literal> by sending a mail to
<ulink url="mailto:debian-user-request@lists.debian.org">
debian-user-request@lists.debian.org</ulink>
(or
<ulink url="mailto:debian-devel-request@lists.debian.org">
debian-devel-request</ulink> respectively)
with the word "help" in the subject line.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Debian GNU/Linux is available for download via anonymous FTP or HTTP; see
<ulink url="http://www.debian.org/distrib/ftplist/">
http://www.debian.org/distrib/ftplist/</ulink>.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
A number of <ulink url="http://www.debian.org/distrib/vendors/">vendors</ulink>
can provide CD-ROMs or snapshots.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Aside from self-serve <ulink url="http://www.debian.org/support/">support</ulink>
via mailing lists, IRC, or the online Bug Tracking System, there is also a number
of <ulink url="http://www.debian.org/consultants/">consultants</ulink> providing
support.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
5 December 2000 (2.2r2)
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
31 January 2001
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** Mandrake Linux ********************************************* -->
<sect2 id="Mandrake">
<title>Mandrake Linux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Mandrake Linux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
MandrakeSoft
Daniel Morales - MandrakeSoft 818.834.9860
Caroline Carmagnol - Aliz&eacute; Public Relations 650.323.1607
<email>mandrake@linux-mandrake.com</email>
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:mandrake@linux-mandrake.com">
mandrake@linux-mandrake.com</ulink> (orders)
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.linux-mandrake.com">
http://www.linux-mandrake.com</ulink>
Vox: 818.834.9860
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="mandrake.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>mandrake logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
Mandrake is inspired by Red Hat(tm) Linux, with many
improvements and pre-configured applications which make it easier to
use for beginners, and faster for everyone.
</para>
<para>
Mandrake is available both in GPL Edition and in the PowerPack
Edition which includes 5 CDs and commercial applications. The GPL
Edition CD (base system and applications) is freely available from
the Internet as an iso image.
</para>
<para>
Mandrake 6.0 won two LinuxWorld Editors' Choice Awards and
was a runner up at LinuxWorld Expo, San Jose, CA in August 1999:
</para>
<para>
<OrderedList>
<listitem>
<para>
Best Linux Product of the Year.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Best Distribution/Server.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
finalist for Best Distribution/Client.
</para>
</listitem>
</OrderedList>
</para>
<para>
Mandrake 6.1 (Helios) features:
</para>
<para>
<OrderedList>
<listitem>
<para>
Linux-Kernel: 2.2.13 (pre4)
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
XFree86: 3.3.5
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Glibc: 2.1.1
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
RPM: 3.0.3
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Bash: 2.03
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
KDE: 1.1.2 (with Mandrake customization)
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Gnome: built from 1.0.4-&#62;1.0.14 versions (with Mandrake
customization)
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Enlightenment 0.16-dev5, Windowmaker 0.60, AfterStep 1.7.111,
XFCE 3.0.2, IceWM 0.9.48
</para>
</listitem>
</OrderedList>
</para>
<para>
and many applications such as Apache, MySQL etc.
</para>
<para>
In Mandrake, packages have been compiled with CPU optimizations for
pentium-class (intel, amd, cyrix, winchip...) and higher processors
resulting in speed improvements up to 30&percnt;.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<ulink url="http://www.linux-mandrake.com/en/ftp.php3">
http://www.linux-mandrake.com/en/ftp.php3</ulink>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Free download available from Internet.
The Linux-Mandrake PowerPack price is typically between $45 and $50.
Payment method depends on the distributor.
Distributor lists available at:
<ulink url="http://www.linux-mandrake.com/en/fsinglecd.php3">
http://www.linux-mandrake.com/en/fsinglecd.php3</ulink>.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
The PowerPack is provided with 100 days of support by e-mail.
</para>
<para>
Several specialized mailing-lists and a USENET newsgroup
(<literal>alt.os.linux.mandrake</literal>) are available for support
between users.
</para>
<para>
Bynari Systems Group and LinuxCare also provide complete support
for Mandrake.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Sep 17, 1999 for Mandrake 6.1 (Helios).
Update frequency: about 4 months.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
18 September 1999
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** Red Hat Linux ********************************************** -->
<sect2 id="RedHat">
<title>Red Hat Linux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Red Hat Linux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
Red Hat Software
3201 Yorktown Rd, Suite 123 DeKalb Center
Durham, NC 27713
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Vox: (800) 546-7274 or (919) 572-6500
Fax: (919) 572-6726
Net: <ulink url="mailto:redhat@redhat.com">redhat@redhat.com</ulink>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.redhat.com/">http://www.redhat.com/</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.redhat.com">ftp://ftp.redhat.com</ulink>
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="redhat.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Red Hat logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
Red Hat 6.1 is based on the 2.2 kernel and is available for
Intel, Sparc and Alpha platforms.
</para>
<para>
Four installation innovations make Red Hat the easiest Linux to
install ever. Our graphical installation mode brings you straight
up into X for most of the installation. Our boot disk creation script
eases selection of the proper boot disk, and it saves your existing
network configuration information and XF86Config so you don't have to
configure TCP/IP or X! Our FTP install allows you to install simply
by downloading 3 floppy disk images &mdash; the rest is done automatically!
And finally, the installation includes seamless support for PCMCIA
devices &mdash; install Red Hat on your laptop as easily as on your
desktop machine!
</para>
<para>
After installing Red Hat Linux once, you will never need to reinstall
Linux again! The new RPM packaging system is sophisticated enough to
allow upgrading to new Red Hat releases without reinstalling your
system - no partitioning, no backing up all your files, no headaches.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Available directly from Red Hat Software and most distributors
of Linux related products. Please contact Red Hat Software for
ordering details (on-line ordering is available through Red Hat's
Web). Suggested retail price for the Standard version is
&dollar;29.95; for the Professional (server) version
&dollar;149.95; for the Deluxe version &dollar;79.95.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Unknown.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
1 Nov 1999.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
The big selling point of this distribution is RPM, the Red Hat
Package Manager. This piece of software is a remarkable advance;
it allows you to cleanly install and de-install applications and
operating-system components, including the kernel and OS base
itself. RPM is now used as well by essentially all other
distributions except Debian. [esr]
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** Slackware Linux ******************************************** -->
<sect2 id="Slackware">
<title>Slackware Linux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Slackware Linux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
Walnut Creek CDROM
4041 Pike Lane, Suite D
Concord, CA 94520
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@cdrom.com">info@cdrom.com</ulink> (information),
<ulink url="mailto:order@cdrom.com">order@cdrom.com</ulink> (orders),
<ulink url="mailto:support@cdrom.com">support@cdrom.com</ulink> (support).
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="slackbutton2.jpg">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Slackware logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
Ftp.cdrom.com is the home of Slackware Linux. We are the publishers
of the Official Slackware Linux CDROM. Our distribution is a 4-disc
set with the current version being Slackware 96. The current disc
is based on the 2.0.34 kernel.
</para>
<para>
Slackware Linux is a full-featured distribution
of the Linux operating system designed for 386/486 computers with a
3.5&quot; floppy and CD-ROM drive.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<literallayout>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.cdrom.com/titles/os/slack96.htm">
http://www.cdrom.com/titles/os/slack96.htm</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp:ftp.cdrom.com/pub/linux/slackware">
ftp:ftp.cdrom.com/pub/linux/slackware</ulink>
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
The cost of the CD-ROM set from Walnut Creek is &dollar;39.95.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
July 1998 (3.5)
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
13 August 1998.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** S.u.S.E. Linux ********************************************* -->
<sect2 id="S.u.S.E.">
<title>S.u.S.E. Linux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>S.u.S.E. Linux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
S.u.S.E., Inc.
458 Santa Clara Ave
Oakland CA 94610 USA
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@suse.com">info@suse.com</ulink>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.suse.com">http://www.suse.com/</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.suse.com">ftp://ftp.suse.com</ulink>
Vox: +1-510-835-7873
Fax: +1-510-835-7875 fax
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="suse_logo.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>S.u.S.E. logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
S.u.S.E. Linux offers users of all levels, from novice to expert,
quick and easy entry into the world of Linux and Unix. Resources such
as a menu-driven installation from CD-ROM, a modular boot diskette,
400-page reference book and S.u.S.E.'s own system administration
tool YaST, allow one to quickly get Linux installed and running,
and to keep it running smoothly.
</para>
<para>
Furthermore, S.u.S.E. offers a series of supported X servers, which
support the newest graphics cards. These servers are created in
co-operation with the XFree86 (tm) development team. See the
following url for more details:
<ulink url="http://www.suse.de/XSuSE/">http://www.suse.de/XSuSE/</ulink>.
</para>
<para>
New in S.u.S.E. Linux 5.3:
</para>
<para>
<itemizedlist>
<listitem>
<para>
Kernel 2.0.35
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
KDE 1.0
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
GIMP 1.0
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
SaX (SuSE advanced XF86 configuration tool)
</para>
</listitem>
</itemizedlist>
</para>
<para>
Quick overview of other features:
</para>
<para>
<itemizedlist>
<listitem>
<para>
The Linux OS, over 875 software packages, including complete
sources and live file system on 4 CD-ROMs
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
400 page reference book
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Packages in RPM format; TGZ packages installable
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
System V compatible boot concept, compliance with file
system standard
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Installation and administration utility 'YaST' configures
network, ISDN, e-mail, printer, X Window System
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
S.u.S.E. X servers which support new graphics cards
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Administration of file systems, users, groups
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Automatic configuration of several window managers
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Online help system and documentation
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Demo mode, either directly from CD-ROM, or on DOS partition
</para>
</listitem>
</itemizedlist>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
You can download from
<ulink url="ftp://ftp.suse.com/pub/SuSE-Linux">
ftp://ftp.suse.com/pub/SuSE-Linux</ulink>.
For the CD-ROM with support, order vphone, secure WWW order form,
fax, or post. Price is $49.95, or $34.95 per edition by
subscription. Use order code LSUE520 for the English version,
LSUD520.
</para>
<para>
Also available: OSF Motif 2.1 for $129.95 (price for update to be
determined; order code: LMEA210
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
60 days of free installation support are included with each
purchase of S.u.S.E. Linux. See the web page for contact info and
conditions.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Unknown.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
13 Aug 1998 (5.3)
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
</sect1>
<sect1 id="iii-others">
<title>Other distributions</title>
<para>
All these distributions are available on CD-ROM (some of the
non-commercial ones only show up on network-archive snapshots).
Most of these are available for free over the network (but the
commercial ones won't support you if you buy this way). They are
custom-assembled, rather than just being re-packagings of a
pre-existing network release.
</para>
<para>
They are listed in alphabetical order.
</para>
<!-- *** KRUD ******************************************************* -->
<sect2 id="KRUD">
<title>KRUD - Kevin's Red Hat Uber Distribution</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>KRUD</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
tummy.com, ltd
200A North College Avenue
Fort Collins CO 80524
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@tummy.com">info@tummy.com</ulink>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.tummy.com/krud/">http://www.tummy.com/krud</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.tummy.com">ftp://ftp.tummy.com</ulink>
Vox: (970)-494-0355
Fax: (408)-490-2728
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="krudlogo.jpg">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>KRUD logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
KRUD is a monthly updated distribution based on Red Hat.
It includes all of the current Red Hat distribution with full errata,
and is available by
subscription or as a single CD. Also included are a variety of
useful packages for Linux, including several security-related
packages such as ssh and isinglass. These additions are
hand-selected by the author of the Linux Security HOWTO.
Requires standard RedHat-compatible hardware.
Currently, KRUD is not for export because it contains crypto software.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Available on CD-ROM only because of export restrictions.
</para>
<para>
http://www.tummy.com/krud/
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
KRUD is available on CD. You can purchase a 12 month subscription for $65, a
single issue for $7. Special rates available for subscription renewals.
International shipping available.
</para>
<para>
<ulink url="https://www.tummy.com/krud/onlineorder.html">
https://www.tummy.com/krud/onlineorder.html</ulink> (online)
<ulink url="http://www.tummy.com/krud/mailorder.html">
http://www.tummy.com/krud/mailorder.htm</ulink> (by mail)
$7/US each
$65/US 12 issue subscription (monthly update).
Visa/Mastercard/Discover/Amex credit cards accepted.
University and large business purchase orders. Postal money orders are
also accepted.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
tummy.com is a full service Linux consulting firm.
KRUD support is available on an hourly or contract basis from tummy.com,
Ltd. Rates start at $150/hour.
</para>
<para>
KRUD helps you keep up with the flood of errata and package upgrades
by offering a monthly CD-ROM subscription delivered to you at a
reasonable price.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
KRUD is updated monthly. Most recent version is dated 2001-01-01.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
2001-01-30
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>(coming shortly)</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** Libranet *************************************************** -->
<sect2 id="Libranet">
<title>Linux by Libranet</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Linux by Libranet</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
Libra Computer Systems Ltd.
1860 Langworthy Street
North Vancouver, BC
V7K 1N8
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:sales@libranet.com">sales@libranet.com</ulink> (orders)
Net: <ulink url="mailto:support@libranet.com">support@libranet.com</ulink> (support)
Net: <ulink url="mailto:faq@libranet.com">faq@libranet.com</ulink> (faq)
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.libranet.com/">http://www.libranet.com/</ulink>
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="libranet.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Libranet logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
Based on the Debian distribution, it allows users to start with
an already configured desktop complete with the most commonly used
applications. The simple installation gets the system up and running
easily. This is a major benefit to those new to Linux and a great
time-saver for the experienced.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Available on CD for intel i386 and higher compatibles.
Order via the web at http://www.libranet.com or fax/mail order
One year free support via email and fax.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
The Linux by Libranet Desktop brings Debian, traditionally the
choice of developers, to the desktop user.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Updated CD about every 4 months.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
1 November 1999
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** LinuxGT **************************************************** -->
<sect2 id="LinuxGT">
<title>LinuxGT</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>LinuxGT</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
Grey Technology
PMB 205
2479 Murphreesboro Rd.
Nashville, TN 37217
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:rick@greysite.com">rick@greysite.com</ulink> (orders)
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.greysite.com/">http://www.greysite.com/</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://metalab.unc.edu/pub/Linux/distributions/linuxGT">
ftp://metalab.unc.edu/pub/Linux/distributions/linuxGT</ulink>
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref=".gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>LinuxGT logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
LinuxGT is based in the Linux 2.2 kernel, available for Intel only
at this point, a PPC and SPARC are on the way! With a simple, to
the point installation, we believe it is the easiest to get running
server solutions available today! Creating a boot disk is a simple
click of a button (from Windows), or running a simple script
(DOS/Linux). Other installation methods are via ftp, http, NFS, or
from your existing hard disk partition. By following the steps in
the QuickStart Guide, you can't go wrong, most people won't NEED
the Guide if they have ANY familiarity with Linux. Further product
information can be found at our website (http://www.greysite.com)
or via e-mail.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Available through Grey Technologies, GT Partners, and Distribution
Vendors. Please contact Grey Technology for ordering details
(on-line ordering is available through GreySite.Com). Suggested
retail price is for the Intel Server version is $dollar;24.95. Other
platforms will be priced at time of availability.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Technical support is available via telephone, e-mail, chatroom, or
online Web Forum.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
24 Jun 1999
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
24 Jun 1999
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** Linux Pro ************************************************** -->
<sect2 id="LinuxPro">
<title>Linux Pro</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Linux Pro</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
WorkGroup Solutions, Inc.
P.O. Box 460190
Aurora, CO 80046-0190
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Vox: (303)-699-7470
Fax: (303)-699-2793
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@wgs.com">info@wgs.com</ulink> (orders)
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.wgs.com/pub2/wgs">ftp://ftp.wgs.com/pub2/wgs</ulink>
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="linuxpro.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Linux PRO logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
The charter of the WGS Linux Pro CD is different from all other
distributions currently on the market. We are actively
pursuing penetration into the commercial marketplace for Linux.
Everything we do is aimed at increasing the size of the Linux
community, and helping Linux to become THE one true operating
system, not just an operating system.
</para>
<para>
WGS Linux Pro consists of our Main "Stable" Linux CD, for which
we select what we consider to be the best Linux distribution
available. Then we make bug fixes &amp; minor enhancements. This
CD often contains software older than the latest, under the theory
that "the latest is not always the greatest". Together with this
approach we provide technical support as well as support agreements.
For this reason WGS Linux Pro is considered a primary Linux
distribution. Optionally, and in addition to our primary CD, we
supply supplemental CDs containing all the latest Linux software
(including current archives of the tsx-11, metalab, and Red Hat
sites). Virtually anything you will get with anyone's Linux
product can be found on these supplemental CDs. We continually add
more to these supplemental CDs as software becomes available. Even
with all this, pricing on our product line is very favorable when
correctly compared to other Linux distributions. Also optional
(included with Linux Pro+) is a professionally produced and printed
manual containing the Linux documentation project and more!
</para>
<para>
Current version is 4.0a; kernel is 1.2.13 with installable 2.0.x
on the CD.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Look in
<ulink url="http://www.wgs.com/">http://www.wgs.com/</ulink>
for a list of WGS products, and latest information on the CD-ROM.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
WGS Linux Pro is available on CD from dealers and distributors
worldwide, and soon from our FTP site.
</para>
<para>
You may call, fax, email, or mail us, to purchase, or request
additional information. We will be happy to respond to any
question you have. We accept American Express, Visa, Discover, and
MasterCard, or purchase orders with approval of credit.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Complete information is available on our FTP site.
</para>
<para>
WGS publishes a free E-Mail newsletter on Linux and FlagShip
to which you may subscribe by just emailing us your request.
</para>
<para>
In addition we carry Motif, FlagShip, A line of books, and
other products to make your experience with Linux more complete
and fulfilling. Check us out!
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
1 October 1996.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
13 March 1997
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
They describe their current distribution as "Red Hat 3.03 plus".
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** Trans-Ameritech Linuxware ********************************** -->
<sect2 id="Trans-Ameritech">
<title>Trans-Ameritech Linuxware</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Linuxware</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
Trans-Ameritech
2342A Walsh Avenue
Santa Clara, CA 95051
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@trans-am.com">info@trans-am.com</ulink>
WWW: http://www.trans-am.com
Vox: (408)-727-3883
Fax: (408)-727-3882
BBS: (408)-980-9840
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref=".gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Linuxware logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
Trans-Ameritech has published 10 releases of Linux by early 1997.
Traditionally, Trans-Ameritech has set new standards for combining
ease of use and straightforward installation, even for a first-time
user, with its line of LinuxWare CD-ROMs. This is a flexible,
easy-to-install operating system geared toward those interested in
learning Unix as well as technical people, students and home PC
users.
</para>
<para>
<itemizedlist>
<listitem>
<para>
New Linux users will appreciate a Windows-based set up
program from the CD.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
To minimize the possibility of hardware conflicts many extra
kernels are provided for different configurations. They are usable
for installation and normal operation.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Many on-line documents are provided for quick reference,
including the Linux Documentation Project files in source, dvi and
ps formats.
</para>
</listitem>
</itemizedlist>
</para>
<para>
Many applications are included:
</para>
<para>
<itemizedlist>
<listitem>
<para>
MS-Windows based X configuration program
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
C/C++,Pascal and Ada compilers as well as converters fron
Fortran
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
TCP/IP networking, UUCP, SLIP, CSLIP, PPP
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Internet access with binaries and sources for
FTP, Telnet, News and E-mail
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Multiple terminals and X-Windows environment
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Gnu and international versions of the ispell spell-checker
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
The communications apps: term, minicom, Seyon (X-Windows based)
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Editors: elvis (vi clone), joe, jove, Emacs
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
PostScript clone ghostscript
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Object oriented GNU Smalltalk and the Smalltalk interface to X
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
TCL/Tk (Powerful scripting language with Motif-like X interface)
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Programs for electrical engineers and ham enthusiasts
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Interviews libraries,include files and doc Word-processor
and idraw drawing program
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Typesetting: TeX, LaTeX, xdvi, dvips, Metafont, groff
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Andrew multimedia word processor with hyperlinks
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
FAX send and receive on either class 1 or class 2 fax modems
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
DOOM for game enthusiasts
</para>
</listitem>
</itemizedlist>
</para>
<para>
All the sources are available on the CD-ROM. The often needed
sources are uncompressed and can be used directly from the CD-ROM.
</para>
<para>
An uncompressed Linux filesystem is available for references and
disk space conversaion. You can run programs directly from the
CD-ROM! There is a large info directory for on-line reference and
many manpages.
</para>
<para>
For hacker's reference, uncompressed FreeBSD and netBSD sources are
provided.
</para>
<para>
Our distribution is targeted for Windows and DOS users who want an easy
migration path upwards, rather than for UNIX experts.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Email orders are taken at <ulink url="mailto:order@trans-am.com">order@trans-am.com</ulink>
</para>
<para>
The price for our current release of LinuxWare 2.5 is &dollar;19.95
</para>
<para>
The price for a package order: LinuxWare 2.5,Supplement 5 and
Supplement 4 (Ultimate LinuxWare Bundle) in one shipment is &dollar;30
</para>
<para>
If you order with a credit card (VISA, MC, AmEx, Discovery),
please, indicate the card number, expiration date and your mailing
address.
</para>
<para>
Shipping and handling in US: single CD-ROM or Ultimate LinuxWare
Bundle is &dollar;5(first class US mail).
</para>
<para>
Overseas shipping is &dollar;8 for single CD-ROM , &dollar;12 for
the bundle.
</para>
<para>
COD is available in the US only for &dollar;4.50.
California residents, please add 7.75&percnt; sales tax.
</para>
<para>
Annual subscription (4 releases) is available for &dollar;80 plus
S&amp;H (note: there are 4 shipments in a subscription). Example:
subscription in US is:&dollar;80+&dollar;5x4=&dollar;100.
Subscription in Europe/Japan etc. &dollar;80 + &dollar;8x4 =
&dollar;112.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
If you have any further questions,please contact us through E-mail:
info@trans-am.com or order@trans-am.com.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
January 1997 (Supplement 5)
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
13 August 1998
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** TurboLinux ************************************************* -->
<sect2 id="TurboLinux">
<title>Turbo Linux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Turbo Linux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
TurboLinux, Inc.
2000 Sierra Point Parkway
Suite 401
Brisbane, CA 94005
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@turbolinux.com">info@turbolinux.com</ulink> (orders)
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.turbolinux.com/">http://www.turbolinux.com/</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.turbolinux.com/">ftp://ftp.turbolinux.com/</ulink>
Vox: (650)-244-7777
Fax: 650-244-7766
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="turbologo.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Turbo Linux logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
TurboLinux makes a suite of high-performance Linux products for the
workstation and server markets. Our products are available from our
Web site, at more than 3,000 retail stores in North America and
from our value-added reseller partners around the world. Our products:
</para>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term>Workstation 6.0</term>
<listitem>
<para>
TurboLinux Workstation 6.0 is your high-performance choice for
Linux on the desktop. The powerful office productivity suite
StarOffice gives you full Microsoft Office compatibility and
Netscape gets you quickly online for e-mail and Web surfing.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term>Server 6.0</term>
<listitem>
<para>
TurboLinux Server 6.0, completely re-engineered as a secure,
high-performance backend server for business workgroups in the
enterprise, now includes robust e-commerce software for
business-to-business transactions.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term>TurboCluster Server 4.0</term>
<listitem>
<para>
Build affordable, scalable and available server clusters (25+
cluster nodes!) with TurboCluster Server 4.0, voted Best Web
Solution by the editors of Linux Journal. TurboCluster Server,
also named Corporate IT Best Product winner for enterprise-class
customers at the IT 2000 Sydney computer show, integrates
seamlessly into your existing IT environment to cluster Solaris and
Windows NT server nodes as well as Linux..
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term>enFuzion 6.0&#62;</term>
<listitem>
<para>
Turn your existing network into a supercomputer! Based on a simple
but powerful concept called parametric execution, enFuzion turns
your existing computer network into a high speed, fault tolerant,
highly available supercomputer.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
See <ulink url="http://www.turbolinux.com/products/">
http://www.turbolinux.com/products/</ulink>
TurboLinux is also offered in retail stores and many online stores.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
Workstation 6.0 - January 3.
Server 6.0 - January 3.
TurboCluster Server - October 4.
</para>
<para>
Estimated update frequency can vary from 2 weeks to 3 months
depending on the product.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
22 Mar 2000.
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- *** xxxxx Linux ************************************************ -->
<sect2 id="xxxxx-Linux">
<title>xxxxx Linux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>xxxxx Linux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
xxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxx
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@xxx.com">info@xxx.com</ulink>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.xxx.com">http://www.xxx.com</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.xxx.com">ftp://ftp.xxx.com</ulink>
Vox: (000)-000-1234
Fax: (000)-000-1234
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="xxxxx.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>xxxxx Linux logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<!-- **************************************************************** -->
</sect1>
<sect1 id="iv-historical">
<title>Hall of Remembrance</title>
<para>
The distributions listed in this section are no longer maintained.
They are included here for historical reasons, and for those who may
be attempting to locate information about the distribution.
</para>
<para>
They are listed in alphabetical order.
</para>
<!-- *** Corel Linux ************************************************ -->
<sect2 id="Corel">
<title>Corel Linux</title>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>Corel Linux</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<address>
xxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxx
</address>
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
Net: <ulink url="mailto:info@xxx.com">info@xxx.com</ulink>
WWW: <ulink url="http://www.xxx.com">http://www.xxx.com</ulink>
FTP: <ulink url="ftp://ftp.xxx.com">ftp://ftp.xxx.com</ulink>
Vox: (000)-000-1234
Fax: (000)-000-1234
</literallayout>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term
<listitem>
<para>
<inlinemediaobject>
<imageobject>
<imagedata fileref="corel.gif">
</imageobject>
<textobject>
<phrase>Corel logo</phrase>
</textobject>
</inlinemediaobject>
</para>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
</sect1>
<sect1 id="v-submit">
<title>Submissions for inclusion in this document</title>
<para>
We encourage anyone and everyone who maintains a Linux distribution
or mail order service, to submit information on their service to
this document. It's easy and fun, and it's free advertising. This
document is posted to many places and is archived (see the next
section).
</para>
<sect2 id="submissiontypes">
<title>Types of submissions</title>
<para>
We are interested in submissions for:
</para>
<para>
<itemizedlist>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis role="strong">Complete distributions</emphasis>
of GNU/Linux software available <emphasis role="strong">on CD-ROM</emphasis>.
(We no longer carry FTP-only distributions, as this document is
aimed primarily at new users for whom such a means of distribution
is not appropriate.)
By `complete distribution' we mean any set of software which can be
used to build a complete GNU/Linux system from scratch.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Layered products or <emphasis role="strong">individual software
packages</emphasis> available only via <emphasis role="strong">
mail order</emphasis>. If your software package is available via
anonymous FTP, chances are people can find it. Software products
only available via mail-order include commercial things such as
Motif, and any other commercial software ported to Linux.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
Any other <emphasis role="strong">Linux-specific</emphasis> goods
available via <emphasis role="strong">mail orde</emphasis>r,
such as Linux-specific books and documentation, T-shirts, and
assorted paraphernalia. Note: our interest in the latter
categories is marginal &mdash; this is a Linux Distributions HOWTO,
not a catalogue of cutesy Linux junk. Whatever you're
selling will have to be (a) very useful, (b) very original, or
(c) very funny, to get listed here.
</para>
</listitem>
</itemizedlist>
</para>
<para>
If the number of submissions for services and layered products
is large, we'll create a separate document for these items.
</para>
</sect2>
<sect2 id="how-to-submit">
<title>How to submit</title>
<para>
To submit an entry to this document, please send mail to
<ulink url="mailto:msw@startext.co.uk">
<literal>msw@startext.co.uk</literal></ulink>
with the following information. This
format is not machine-parsable; any of the fields may be any
length that you wish, but I'd like to keep each entry down to,
say, 50 lines.
</para>
<para>
<variablelist>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Name:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- name of service or distribution</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Distributor:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- name of company, person, etc. who distributes/maintains
the service or distribution. Should include mail, e-mail,
phone contact information, and (if possible) a WWW reference.</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Provider's description:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- description of the distribution or service
that you provide. If this is a software distribution, please include
information such as what software is included, versions, general
overview of installation, requirements, and so on.</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Internet access:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- where your service or distribution is
available over the Internet; typically a WWW or FTP address.</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Ordering:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- how to order your distribution or service, if
applicable. Include prices, shipping information, methods of
payment, etc.</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Support:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- information on support terms and support contracts.</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Last freeze date:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- last freeze date of the current version(s). Also, your estimated
update frequency.</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Entry last modified:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- date of submission of this entry.</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
<varlistentry>
<term><emphasis role="strong">Reviewer's comments:</emphasis></term>
<listitem>
<para>
<emphasis>- independent reviewer's comments.</emphasis>
</para>
</listitem>
</varlistentry>
</variablelist>
</para>
</sect2>
<sect2 id="guidelines">
<title>Submission guidelines</title>
<para>
Please keep your entry as short as possible. If you need to include
extensive information, please make a reference to where one can FTP
or mail to get more information on your distribution; these entries
are only meant to be <emphasis>pointers</emphasis> to where one can
find information on your service or distribution.
</para>
<para>
If you provide more than one service or distribution, please use
<emphasis>separate entries</emphasis> for each.
</para>
<para>
We may edit your entries for conciseness and brevity if we find
any irrelevant information, or if the entry is overly verbose.
Otherwise the content should remain the same.
</para>
<para>
When making submissions to this document, you grant implicit
permission for the LDP to use the entries in other materials, such as
printed books, or further online documents. For example, information
taken from this document may be included in a published Linux book.
If you do <emphasis role="strong">not</emphasis> want us to include
your entry in materials other than the current online document, please say so.
</para>
</sect2>
</sect1>
<sect1 id="vi-legal">
<title>Administrivia</title>
<sect2 id="terms">
<title>Terms of use</title>
<para>
This document is copyright 2001 by Martin S. Wheeler. You may use,
disseminate, and reproduce it freely, provided you:
</para>
<para>
<itemizedlist>
<listitem>
<para>
do not omit or alter this copyright notice.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
do not omit or alter the version number and date.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
do not omit or alter the document's pointer to the current WWW version.
</para>
</listitem>
<listitem>
<para>
clearly mark any condensed, or altered versions as such.
</para>
</listitem>
</itemizedlist>
</para>
<para>
These restrictions are intended to protect potential readers from
stale or mangled versions. If you think you have a good case for
an exception, ask me.
</para>
</sect2>
<sect2 id="acknowledgments">
<title>Acknowledgements</title>
<para>
This document was originated by <emphasis role="strong">Bill Riemers</emphasis>.
<emphasis role="strong">Matt Welsh</emphasis>
maintained the second version. <emphasis role="strong">Erik Troan</emphasis>
then maintained the document to release 3.0.
</para>
<para>
In January 1995, <emphasis role="strong">Eric Raymond</emphasis>,
while unaware of the existence of
this document, began to develop a similar FAQ in the format
of his not-quite-yet-discontinued <emphasis>PC-clone UNIX Software Buyer's
Guide</emphasis>, which covered mainly System V UNIXes and BSD/OS.
(This Buyer's Guide should still be available on Eric's site somewhere, if he
has not yet turned it into a useful HOWTO.)
</para>
<para>
In March 1995, Eric approached Erik about cooperating on a merged
version. In early April 1995, Erik went to work for Red Hat
Software, and (wishing to avoid a conflict of interest) handed the
document to Eric. Eric merged in a lot of new information and
added several new fields to the distribution entries, taking the
document through releases 4, 5 and 6.
</para>
<para>
In January 2001, <emphasis role="strong">Martin Wheeler</emphasis> took
over editorship of the document,
which with the enormous expansion in numbers of distributions available,
had become extremely time-consuming to maintain, and which Eric had decided to
abandon.
</para>
<para>
Accordingly, this document is the result of serial collaboration.
The editorial `we' generally tags observations by all the
maintainers; `I' is Martin (the current editor/maintainer) speaking.
</para>
<para>
We are delighted to acknowledge the contributions of all the
Linux users and Internet hackers who have contributed information
and feedback.
</para>
<para>
<literallayout>
<emphasis role="strong">Martin Wheeler</emphasis>
Glastonbury
<emphasis>January 2001</emphasis>
</literallayout>
</para>
</sect2>
</sect1>
</article>
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