Linux Distributions
A linux distribution, short for software distribution
, or just distro
, is a software bundle wherefrom you make a Linux installation. A distribution must contain the bare operating system with a Linux kernel (the engine
or orchestrator, so to speak), plus lots of packages or files that can each add a matching application. For instance a file named fbreader.deb might the used to intall the FBReader app on a Debian system. Additionally, for each distribution a standard or official source of packages is provided so that for most applications no hacking is required.
Most Linux software distributions are derived from one of a few branches:
Lubuntu
The project's goal is to provide a lightweight yet functional Linux distribution based on a rock-solid Ubuntu base. Lubuntu provides a simple but modern and powerful graphical user interface, and comes with a wide variety of applications so you can browse, email, chat, play, and be productive. Lubuntu was formerly a distribution for low-end hardware.
Fedora
DNF Package Manager
DNF is Fedora's default package manager, which replaced yum in Fedora 22. DNF is used along with RPM to do the bulk of software management in Fedora. DNF can be run from the command line with simple syntax.
DNF maintains a cache containing metadata and package information about enabled repositories. Sometimes, DNF will stop functioning properly. If DNF starts behaving strangly, the first two advised steps in troubleshooting are:
Troubleshooting your connection to verify connectivity and the ability to contact mirrors
-
Cleaning to DNF cache
The DNF cache can be cleared by issuing:
dnf clean all
The basic syntax for installing packages with minimal required arguments is:
# dnf install packagename
If you don't know the exact name of the package you would like to install, you can search the repositories using DNF from the command line.
# dnf search search term
Packages are removed using:
# dnf remove packagename
Individual packages can be updated using the update argument:
# dnf update packagename
Also, the entire system can be upgraded using a single command:
# dnf update
The -y option can be used to answer yes to all questions. This can be helpful when doing updates so you can set it and forget it. However, doing so could cause you to install an application you did not want. Use at your own risk; if in doubt, do not use the -y switch. It is especially not advised to use the -y switch in conjunction with DNF's remove functionality.
# dnf -y update
Installing more than one package is as simple as adding it to the end of the line.
# dnf install packagename packagename
In general, it is preferable to use DNF (or rpm) to add or remove software because this will allow you to automatically install and update your software without time-consuming compile jobs and allow you to cleanly and easily update your software, and its dependencies, when updates arrive in the repositories.
LXLE
LXLE is based on Lubuntu which is an Ubuntu OS using the LXDE desktop environment. It is designed to be a drop-in and go OS, primarily for aging computers. Its intention is to be able to install it on any computer and be relatively done after install. At times removing unwanted programs or features is easier than configuring for a day. Our distro follows the same LTS schedule as Ubuntu. In short, LXLE is an eclectic respin of Lubuntu with its own user support.
What is a Respin?
A respin is a remastered version of a major Linux distro tailored for a specific purpose or group.
OS Philosophy
- Stick with LTS only releases of Ubuntu to ensure hardware & software support.
- Based on Lubuntu Linux to ensure a fast capable desktop for aging computers.
- Keep desktop and other major software updated to the latest stable version.
- Provide a complete drop in and go replacement for XP, Vista, 7 Starter/Basic.
- Cover most users everyday needs by providing an excellent set of default apps.
- Add useful necessary mods and tweaks, to improve performance & functions.
- Develop a beautiful modern looking intuitive desktop for anyone to use easily.
- Save system resources and spend them wisely on capable, feature rich apps.
Porteus
Porteus is a complete linux operating system that is optimized to run from CD, USB flash drive, hard drive, or other bootable storage media. It's small (under 300Mb) and insanely fast which allows you to start up and get online while most other operating systems are left spitting dust. Porteus comes in both 32 & 64 bit and aims to keep on the bleeding edge. It also supports several different languages and the user forum has language sections.
Linux Mint
The live session
When you boot the computer from the USB stick (or DVD), Linux Mint starts a live session. It logs you in automatically as a user called mint and shows you a desktop with the installer on it.
The live session is similar to a normal session (i.e. to Linux Mint once it is permanently installed on the computer), but with the following exceptions:
- The Live session is slower (it is loaded from a USB stick or DVD as opposed to a SSD or HDD).
- Changes you make in the live session are not permanent. They are not written to the USB stick (or DVD) and they do not impact the system installed by the installer.
- Some applications work differently (or not at all) in the live session (Timeshift, Flatpak, Update Manager, Welcome Screen..etc.).
Installing Linux Mint on the computer
To permanently install Linux Mint on your computer:
- Double-click Install Linux Mint.
- Etc.
[...]
Also create a swap partition. This partition is used for hibernation and as a safety buffer in case your computer runs out of RAM. Give this partition a size equal to the amount of RAM in your computer.
To protect your personal data against local attacks (people around you, or in case your computer gets stolen), tick Encrypt my home folder
.