InstallFest 39

Linux comes in many "flavors" called distributions, each geared towards a different type of user. This article has more information about Linux basics, including what a distribution is. Below is a list of distributions available. For more information about the various distributions, try the following outside links:

• Linux.com
• LinuxLookup
• Linux.org

Note: If you know what distribution you want, and have access to a CD recorder, you may want to download and burn the ISOs for the distribution before arriving at the InstallFest. This ensures you will have copies of the install mediums, in case you wish to reinstall Linux on your own, install it on another machine, or use the CDs to install extra software (although most distributions allow you download the extra software from the internet with ease). We will be glad to give away a few sets of CDs to those who really want them, but we can't give everyone a set. Listed below are links to where you can download the ISO files, where available.

Also - If you require Linux for a class, most likely you will need RedHat Enterprise Linux. Please make sure which version will be officially supported by your Prof and TAs before you come, if necessary.

There are of course many more distributions. Below is a list of the distributions we will have at the Installfest, and under that some descriptions of most of those. If you want something other than what is listed, look around on the net. We will try to help you with the distribution, but can't make any guarantees.

• Red Hat Enterprise Linux
• Fedora
• Gentoo
• Ubuntu
• Slackware
• FreeBSD
• OpenBSD
• NetBSD
• SuSE
• Debian
• Yellow Dog Linux
• Mandrake
• Smoothwall (for routers/firewalls)

If a distribution that you are interested in is not on that list, that does not mean that we can't help you get it. It is highly likely that someone at the Installfest can acquire the install media and burn it onto a CD for you.

* BSD and Solaris are not Linux. Like Linux, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, etc are based on UNIX.