Slashdot has a discussion about this XYZComputing Review of Xandros Linux.
For those who are unfamiliar with this distro, Xandros is based off of the now-defunct Corel Linux, which is in turn based on Debian Linux. The fact that this distro is based on debian is a huge plus; what it means to me is that no matter how “user-friendly” Xandros makes itself, it will retain the power and flexibility of the Debian distribution, primarily in the apt-get package management system.
There is a free version of Xandros, but to get the full package you must buy it; part of what makes this worthwhile is the inclusion of CrossOver Office in the full version, which enables those who want it to run Microsoft Office, and various other Windows Apps. As soon as Crossover supports Macromedia Flash MX 2004, I would consider purchasing it (or Xandros).
Most of the selling points of Xandros highlight its ease of use. It appears to be nearly the perfect system for those switching from Windows to Linux, not wanting a high learning curve. I have friend here who has this loaded on his laptop; he has the full version, so he is able to use some Windows software if he needs it. He reported that it found the Windows domain without a problem, connected to printers on the Windows domain without a problem, and although he had originally planned only to leave it on the laptop temporarily, he has yet to remove it. Apparently, it works so well that he has been reluctant to remove it. The individual (Hi, Will!) that I’m referring to is quite capable of loading and configuring a straight Debian install by himself, so I would consider these comments a fairly high endorsement of Xandros.
So if you have been considering trying Linux, but don’t know where to start, Xandros seems like one of the most likely distributions you should think about. Will also reported to me that his grandparents have been using it; they had purchased one of the $288 Microtel PCs from Walmart, which come with Xandros pre-loaded. They have been using it with no problems, and Will reports that neither of them are any more than average in computer literacy. Another good endorsement.
So, if this sounds like it’s for you, take some time to check it out!
