If you're intersted in trying Linux for the first time, or (like me) simply try every distro that crosses your path, you'll want to try out Cobind Desktop Linux. Cobind is a good example of a modern operating system which runs very well on even low-end hardware. In a nutshell, it's a super-lightweight version of Fedora which utilizes an ultra-fast, custom desktop. Effectively it has all the speed & low memory requirements of the Xfce desktop as well as the integration and simplicity of Gnome. Software installation in the new beta 2 version is a snap with a YUM GUI. For those unfamiliar with YUM, you can basically choose the software you want to install from a list & install it with one click. Here's a brief description from the website: For the impatient, you can get the CD image here.
New Features in Beta 2: New with Cobind Desktop 0.2 Beta *Cobind Software Manager: A YUM GUI for finding and installing new software over the Internet. *mplayer: Audio and video playback fully integrated with Firefox. *K3B: Comprehensive CD/DVD burning. *Support For SMP Systems: Tested on dual processor systems, including Dell Poweredge 2600. *Dialup Support: Simple dialup support with Dialup Wizard. Just enter phone number, userid, and login. *Graphical Installer: Installer defaults to graphics instead of text. *Firewall: Activated by default in the installer. *Simplified File Management: File manager choices in the panel simplified to one: Nautilus. *New Settings Popup Menu: All configuration utilities easily accessible from the panel. *Simplified Login Screen: User list removed, making login easier and more secure.
I tried out Cobind beta 1 on a P3~400MHz w/128mb RAM, and it ran fantastically. Yet, it still felt like a very modern and full-featured operating system. I think you'll like it.
Glad you like it. I used Cobind to make a public access terminal for my parent's house; no problems or complications so far. :good:
i just installed firefox in a snap! along with mplayer plugins and flash!!! easy peasy lemon squeezy. its a GREAT leaner distro! stable as my grandpa's undergarments!