Accessorizing Linux
Accessorizing Linux
In This Chapter
>Discovering which Linux distribution is the one for you
>Getting Linux for free or not
>Using Linux `a la MS-DOS or Windows
>Examining text editors
>Making the most of email interfaces
>Marveling at multimedia programs
>Cavorting with commercial programs
The first accompanying CD-ROM (CDI) is based on Red Hat Linux, which is an excellent distribution. Some people, however, prefer other distributions. Several Linux distributions are available, and each one differs in certain ways, such as the manner in which you install and manage the distribution. We list some of these distributions in this chapter, in case you want to investigate them later. We also show you some text editors and mail interfaces, and demonstrate a few other programs, just to whet your appetite. (In other chapters, we cover these programs in greater detail.)
A distribution is the combination of the Linux kernel, supporting software, and the organization of all the files and directories. Companies like Red Hat add their own innovations and charge for the convenience of getting the total package on CD-ROM. Other non-profit organizations like Debian develop their own distribution and merely charge for the media. In many ways, distributions are like a favorite flavor of ice cream governed by personal preference. We say try them all!!