Linux Distros You Don’t Need To Install On Your Computer

By Jim on March 5th, 2004

In our previous “Taste of Linux” feature, we looked at some “Live” Linux versions that allow you to run a full-blown Linux OS right off the CD, with no installation required and without affecting your existing operating system. In this follow-up, we look at three live versions from major Linux distributors SUSE, Lindows and Mandrake.

These editions generally don’t come with as much software as you’d get if you bought the regular versions and installed them to your hard disk. There’s still a fair amount of software, but if you buy SUSE Professional, a subscription to Lindows Click-N-Run Library, or Mandrake’s boxed versions, you’ll get quite a bit more than what’s included here.

Remember, to use these versions of Linux, your PC has to able to boot off of the CD. Check your bios settings and adjust them accordingly if you run into any problems trying out these Live versions of Linux. Since the OS is running from the CD (and not your hard disk), response times for loading and running apps will likely be significantly slower.

Read the Rest at ExtremeTech or visit the Linux Reviews Blog for more Linux reviews.