| 1. What is Linux?
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See "About Linux"
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| 2. Who is behind the LibraNet Linux Desktop?
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Libra Computer Systems Ltd. Libra has been in business since 1984 providing UNIX systems and software development.
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| 3. Why get the Libranet distribution?
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It is the most comprehensive Linux desktop available. If you are new to Linux or want a quick way to achieve a first class system, this is it.
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| 4. What about my MSDOS/Windows 3.1/95/98 applications?
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If you still need them you can retain a partition on your hard drive for MSWindows or MSDOS and boot your system from either the Linux partition or the other at startup.
Or run two hard drives. One for each operating system.
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| 5. Is Linux really as good as I have heard?
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It's better.
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| 6. What about hardware and software compatibility?
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Hardware: Most hardware is compatible with Linux. However, before you install Linux check the Linux Hardware HOWTO or fill in the form on the Pre-purchase Support page to check that your hardware will work with Linux.
Software: Linux software is in a constant state of improvement. Word processors and spreadsheets (e.g. StarOffice and WordPerfect ) have Microsoft file compatibility, so documents can be easily exchanged. Netscape Communicator works just fine in Linux. And remember, except for some commercial applications, Linux software is FREE. StarOffice is free, WordPerfect is free for personal use. Both StarOffice and WordPerfect are included on the CD. Both are tested to run well with our distribution.
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| 7. Why base the Libranet Desktop on the Debian/GNU Linux distribution?
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Debian/GNU Linux is produced by a dedicated group of programmers. Debian has won world acclaim as a solid and well maintained distribution. Debian is a non-commercial distribution with no interest in selling anything. You don't get any hype or overstated claims about the software.
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| 8. Is installation difficult?
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Not really. We provide simple to follow instructions to step you through the installation. You will need to make a decision about the size of your Linux partition. The rest of the installation is mostly automatic.
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| 9. Software changes all the time. How will I keep up to date?
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Debian/GNU has an automatic software update feature. Your system can be upgraded via the internet or from a CD. The internet upgrade is free. The CD is available at a nominal charge to Libranet Desktop users. Internet upgrades are available on a continual basis, the CD about every 4 to 6 months.
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| 10. Can I install software from sources other than Libranet and Debian?
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Yes, you can. However, installing a Debian package ensures that the software is properly configured and contains all the components needed to run successfully on your system.
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| 11. Do I need to know any UNIX commands to run the system.
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Maybe two or three. Unless you are interested in UNIX commands you can do almost everything from the desktop. There's not that much to do. Linux pretty much looks after itself. If you do get stuck, you can always ask us.
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| 12. What are the system requirements?
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System Requirements
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| 13. How does your distribution compare to those of the major players?
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We have based our distribution on Debian, considered by many to be the best. We install a core set of base programs which ensure the system runs maintenance free. We have selected and configured the most commonly used applications into a desktop with a selection of window managers. This is all done automatically by the install process. We back our product with support which is way above normal for the industry. So, the best got better.
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| 14. What is the benefit over the standard Debian distribution?
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Pre-purchase support. Step by step guided installation. Preselected and configured applications and window managers. Based on more recent software than Debian's standard release. Easier upgrade path. Includes KDE. Backed by a full year of support.
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| 15. I have heard that you need to be a computer expert to install and run Linux.
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True for some distributions, not ours.
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| 16. Lots of companies say they provide support. What makes you different?
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We work with you for as long as it takes to get your system up and running. Most people manage the install and operation of the system without assistance, and for those who need help, we are here. We don't hide behind an automated switchboard and within our business hours, we respond to emails as they come in. You get a full year of support included.
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| 17. What happens if I can't get it to work?
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Not likely. You can send the CD back for a full refund.
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| 18. I have heard that Linux is short on drivers and applications.
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This was true in the past, but no longer. There are plenty of applications around and drivers are being written as new hardware arrives on the market. Before buying our distribution, you can check with us to make sure your hardware is compatible.
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| 19. Does your distribution support laptops?
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We have successful laptop installs, however some laptops will not be supported. Please check with us before placing your order.
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| 20. Is Linux crash proof?
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No system is completely crash proof. Linux systems can run for months, maybe even years, without the need for rebooting. If you are used to rebooting your system a few times a day to keep it working, you won't need to do that anymore.
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| 21. I've got a question you haven't answered.
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Ask us at FAQ@libranet.com
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