MandrakeSoft has released Mandrake 8.2, the latest version of its Linux distribution.
The company says the offering is the most feature-rich version of Mandrake to date and the most flexible installation ever from the company.
"The new version of our flagship product combines the power and flexibility of a full-featured Linux server with the simplicity and elegance of well-designed graphical user interfaces," says MandrakeSoft.
While the distribution includes the necessary software for installation as a Linux server, the system can also be installed as a workstation and includes software such as StarOffice 6.0 to this end. According to the company, a feature that is sure to attract the attention of seasoned Linux users is the minimal install option which only uses up 65MB of hard drive space with just a base install.
New server features include the ability to use an encrypted file system for protecting sensitive data. A "kernel secure" installation adds a number of security features to the default kernel while an "enterprise" kernel includes Symmetric Multi-Processing and Hi-memory support (above 1024MB) for high-end servers.
The company says new features in this release include improved tools for configuring printers and scanners, new file sharing features and improved "hot plug" support. A new remote desktop utility, RFBdrake, allows users to control machines remotely within a LAN or securely through the Internet. New desktop features include a redesigned Mandrake Control Center as well as a number of new configuration wizards.
For users unfamiliar with Linux and particularly Mandrake, 8.2 includes MandrakeFirstTime to ease the setup of desktop environments including configuring e-mail settings. Similarly, DrakNet, the Internet connection and network utility, helps users configure all types of network connections, from common dial-up modems to broadband connections.
On the security side a networked version of MSEC, a utility for configuring a machine`s security level, has been overhauled.
"With version 8.2, Mandrake Linux proves that it is the ultimate Linux experience. This new release is the result of our four-year commitment to providing the best operating system ever. Mandrake Linux has long been the preferred Linux distribution for individuals, but Mandrake 8.2 marks a new step in our penetration of the corporate environment. The features and unparalleled ease of use make 8.2 an incredibly efficient and affordable alternative to Unix and Windows 2000," says Jacques Le Marois, CEO of MandrakeSoft.
Mandrake 8.2 is based on kernel 2.4.18 and includes firewire support as well as support for USB2, ECC memory, Geforce3 and ATA133. Graphically, XFreee86 4.2 improves 3D support for most video cards.
Applications included in the distribution include the Apache Web server, PHP, MySQL and PostgreSQL. Evolution 1.0.2, an e-mail and personal information manager, is also included.
Gnome 1.4.1 and KDE 3.0 RC2 are included in the package although the default KDE version is 2.2.2.
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