Xandros Unveils Linux Desktop 3
Xandros has publicly unveiled version 3 of its Desktop operating system, based on Linux. Xandros Desktop takes Linux to the consumer market with its own series of enhancements such as wireless network support, drag-and-drop CD burning, a personal firewall wizard, encrypted folders, simplified VPN access and alerts to software updates from the Xandros network.
The distribution is rooted in the 2.6.9 Linux kernel and sports a Xandros-enhanced version of KDE 3.3.
Crossover Office 4.1 is bundled with the Deluxe Xandros release to provide users with an acceptable level of compatibility with many popular Microsoft Windows programs. Users may also drag-and-drop files from any source including Windows network shares and FTP sites.
Xandros has made improvements to online components in Desktop OS that go beyond a drag-and-drop interface for FTP transfers. The distribution comes with a tab-enabled Web browser that allows users to view many Web pages within a single window, as well as a pop-up blocker and safeguards against spam, worms, viruses, and spyware.
"This new Xandros release continues our strong user focus with enhanced support for wireless and Internet technologies," said Andreas Typaldos, Xandros CEO. "Everyone has been sold on the power and stability of Linux for cluster and server computing. Now many will be surprised at how pleasurable and trouble-free Linux desktop computing can be."
Deluxe and Standard editions of Xandros Desktop OS can be purchased and downloaded online, or picked up at a reseller. The Deluxe edition retails for $89.95 USD and ships with a 380-page user guide and CrossOver Office 4.1. The Standard Edition carries a suggested retail price of $49.95 USD.