Hoping to help the cause of planting Linux more firmly on the desktop, Xandros on Wednesday unveiled an enhanced version of its Linux-compatible graphical environment with most improvements aimed at users.
Based on Debian Linux 4.0, a version of which is included with the product, the Xandros Desktop 2.0 is also better enabled to work with Windows-based applications, including Microsoft Office, and Windows-based networks. It also contains a number of new security features.
Company officials are hoping to cash in on the rash of security holes many Windows desktop users have been experiencing over the past couple of years through Version 2.0's improved security.
"Most users are fed up with viruses, worms, and the installation of patches. With this version we think we are presenting a better alternative on the desktop for the masses," said Andy Typaldos, CEO of Xandros.
One of the attractions of the product, company officials believe, is a four-click installation that includes with automatic disk partitioning as well as drag-and-drop CD-burning handled by the Xandros File Manager. The Deluxe Edition of Xandros Desktop gives users the option of running Office and a range of other Windows applications.
Using either the Deluxe or Standard Editions, users can also share data files and other resources over a network. Desktop users can also access an online collection of free Linux-based software with one mouse click, company officials said.
Version 2.0 contains a browser that lets users browse multiple Web sites in a single tabbed window. The product also comes with a mail reader that has an automatic spam filter and can turn off pop-up ads and an instant messenger compatible with a number of similar products including AOL, MSN, and Yahoo.
The new environment ships with Version 1.1 of the OpenOffice.org applications suite, which can work with Microsoft Word and Excel documents. The presentations program within OpenOffice is capable of exporting dynamic Web-based shows to Macromedia Flash.
Available through retailers or at http://www.xandros.com starting Dec. 9, the Deluxe Edition will cost $89 and will include a version of CrossOver Office 2.1 that allows user to run Microsoft Office. Users have the ability to allocate install space from a Windows XP partition and receive a 350-page user guide and 60 days of e-mail support. The Standard Edition will be priced at $39.00 and includes 30 days of e-mail support.
Users currently using Desktop OS 1.x can upgrade to the new Deluxe Version for $69 and to the Standard Edition for $24.
Get the independent advice and expertise you need to support a virtual workforce.
The increase in Linux popularity has increased the frequency and sophistication of malware attacks. Read this 2 page white paper now to learn how you can protect your Linux environment with real-time protection that is certified by all major Linux vendors.
Download now »
Ensuring acceptable application delivery will become even more difficult over the next few years. As a result, IT organizations need to ensure that the approach that they take to resolving the current application delivery challenges can scale to support the emerging challenges. This handbook elaborates on the key tasks associated with planning, optimization, management and control and provides decision criteria to help IT organizations choose appropriate solutions.
Download now »
A common misconception is that mid-range storage requirements are dramatically different than that of a larger enterprise. Mid-range storage users may require less capacity, but they have similar functionality and management requirements. This ESG paper examines mid-range storage needs and reviews a new solution that adjusts size while retaining value, performance and functionality.
Download now »
Recommend This
