What is operating system

What is Operating System?

An operating system (OS) is a collection of software that manages computer hardwareresources and provides

common services for computer programs. The operating system is a vital component of the system software in a

computer system. Application programs require an operating system to function.Time-sharing operating systems

schedule tasks for efficient use of the system and may also include accounting for cost allocation of processor time,

mass storage, printing, and other resources.For hardware functions such as input and output and memory allocation,

the operating system acts as an intermediary between programs and the computer hardware,[1][2]although the

application code is usually executed directly by the hardware and will frequently make a system call to an OS function

or be interrupted by it. Operating systems can be found on almost any device that contains a computer—from cellular

phones and video game consoles to supercomputers and web servers.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operating_system

The operating system is the most important program that runs on a computer. Every general-purpose computer must have an operating system to run other programs. Operating systems perform basic tasks, such as recognizing inputfrom the keyboard, sending output to the display screen, keeping track of filesand directories on the disk, and controlling peripheral devices such as disk drives and printers.For large systems, the operating system has even greater responsibilities and powers. It is like a traffic cop -- it makes sure that different programs andusers running at the same time do not interfere with each other. The operating system is also responsible for security, ensuring that unauthorized users do not access the system.Source: http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/O/operating_system.html

How does Operating System works?

The operating system acts as an interface between an application and the hardware. The user interacts with the hardware from "the other side". The operating system is a set of services which simplifies development of applications. Executing a program involves the creation of a process by the operating system. The kernel creates a process by assigning memory and other resources, establishing a priority for the process (in multi-tasking systems), loading program code into memory, and executing the program. The program then interacts with the user and/or other devices performing its intended function. 

References: http://www.megatypers.in/?p=152

History of Microsoft Windows.

The dawn of MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System)

In June 1980, Gates and Allen hire Gates’ former Harvard classmate Steve Ballmer to help run the company. The next month, IBM approaches Microsoft about a project code-named "Chess." In response, Microsoft focuses on a new operating system—the software that manages, or runs, the computer hardware and also serves to bridge the gap between the computer hardware and programs, such as a word processor. It’s the foundation on which computer programs can run. They name their new operating system "MS-DOS."

When the IBM PC running MS-DOS ships in 1981, it introduces a whole new language to the general public. Typing “C:” and various cryptic commands gradually becomes part of daily work. People discover the backslash (\) key.

MS-DOS is effective, but also proves difficult to understand for many people. There has to be a better way to build an operating system.

1982–1985: Introducing Windows 1.0

Microsoft works on the first version of a new operating system. Interface Manager is the code name and is considered as the final name, but Windows prevails because it best describes the boxes or computing “windows” that are fundamental to the new system. Windows is announced in 1983, but it takes a while to develop. Skeptics call it “vaporware.”

The fully-packagedWindows 1.0

On November 20, 1985, two years after the initial announcement, Microsoft shipsWindows 1.0. Now, rather than typing MS-DOS commands, you just move a mouse to point and click your way through screens, or “windows.” Bill Gates says, “It is unique software designed for the serious PC user…”

There are drop-down menus, scroll bars, icons, and dialog boxes that make programs easier to learn and use. You're able to switch among several programs without having to quit and restart each one. Windows 1.0 ships with several programs, including MS-DOS file management, Paint, Windows Writer, Notepad, Calculator, and a calendar, card file, and clock to help you manage day-to-day activities. There’s even a game—Reversi.

1987–1992: Windows 2.0–2.11—More windows, more speed

On December 9, 1987 Microsoft releases Windows 2.0 with desktop icons and expanded memory. With improved graphics support, you can now overlap windows, control the screen layout, and use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your work. Some software developers write their first Windows–based programs for this release.

Windows 2.0

Windows 2.0 is designed for the Intel 286 processor. When the Intel 386 processor is released, Windows/386 soon follows to take advantage of its extended memory capabilities. Subsequent Windows releases continue to improve the speed, reliability, and usability of the PC.

In 1988, Microsoft becomes the world’s largest PC software company based on sales. Computers are starting to become a part of daily life for some office workers.

1990–1994: Windows 3.0–Windows NT—Getting the graphics

On May 22, 1990, Microsoft announces Windows 3.0, followed shortly byWindows 3.1 in 1992. Taken together, they sell 10 million copies in their first 2 years, making this the most widely used Windows operating system yet. The scale of this success causes Microsoft to revise earlier plans. Virtual Memory improves visual graphics. In 1990 Windows starts to look like the versions to come.

Windows now has significantly better performance, advanced graphics with 16 colors, and improved icons. A new wave of 386 PCs helps drive the popularity of Windows 3.0. With full support for the Intel 386 processor, programs run noticeably faster. Program Manager, File Manager, and Print Manager arrive inWindows 3.0.

Windows software is installed with floppy discs bought in large boxes with heavy instruction manuals.

The popularity of Windows 3.0 grows with the release of a newWindows software development kit (SDK), which helps software developers focus more on writing programs and less on writing device drivers.

Windows is increasingly used at work and home and now includes games like Solitaire, Hearts, and Minesweeper. An advertisement: “Now you can use the incredible power of Windows 3.0 to goof off.”

Windows for Workgroups 3.11 adds peer-to-peer workgroup and domain networking support and, for the first time, PCs become an integral part of the emerging client/server computing evolution.

Windows NT

When Windows NT releases on July 27, 1993, Microsoft meets an important milestone: the completion of a project begun in the late 1980s to build an advanced new operating system from scratch. "Windows NT represents nothing less than a fundamental change in the way that companies can address their business computing requirements," Bill Gates says at its release.

Unlike Windows 3.1, however, Windows NT 3.1 is a 32-bit operating system, which makes it a strategic business platform that supports high-end engineering and scientific programs.

1995–2001: Windows 95—the PC comes of age (and don't forget the Internet)

On August 24, 1995, Microsoft releases Windows 95, selling a record-setting 7 million copies in the first five weeks. It’s the most publicized launch Microsoft has ever taken on. Television commercials feature the Rolling Stones singing "Start Me Up" over images of the new Start button. The press release simply begins: “It’s here.”

This is the era of fax/modems, e-mail, the new online world, and dazzling multimedia games and educational software.Windows 95 has built-in Internet support, dial-up networking, and new Plug and Play capabilities that make it easy to install hardware and software. The 32-bit operating system also offers enhanced multimedia capabilities, more powerful features for mobile computing, and integrated networking.

At the time of the Windows 95 release, the previous Windows and MS-DOS operating systems are running on about 80 percent of the world’s PCs. Windows 95 is the upgrade to these operating systems. To run Windows 95, you need a PC with a 386DX or higher processor (486 recommended) and at least 4 MB of RAM (8 MB of RAM recommended). Upgrade versions are available for both floppy disk and CD-ROM formats. It’s available in 12 languages.

Windows 95 features the first appearance of the Start menu, taskbar, and minimize, maximize, and close buttons on each window.

Windows 95

Catching the Internet wave

In the early 1990s, tech insiders are talking about the Internet—a network of networks that has the power to connect computers all over the world. In 1995, Bill Gates delivers a memo titled “The Internet Tidal Wave,” and declares the Internet as “the most important development since the advent of the PC.”

In the summer of 1995, the first version of Internet Explorer is released. The browser joins those already vying for space on the World Wide Web.

1998–2000: Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows Me

Windows 98

Released on June 25, 1998, Windows 98 is the first version of Windows designed specifically for consumers. PCs are common at work and home, and Internet cafes where you can get online are popping up. Windows 98 is described as an operating system that “Works Better, Plays Better.”

With Windows 98, you can find information more easily on your PC as well as the Internet. Other improvements include the ability to open and close programs more quickly, and support for reading DVD discs and universal serial bus (USB) devices. Another first appearance is the Quick Launch bar, which lets you run programs without having to browse the Start menu or look for them on the desktop.

Windows 98

Windows Me

Designed for home computer use, Windows Me offers numerous music, video, and home networking enhancements and reliability improvements compared to previous versions.

First appearances: System Restore, a feature that can roll back your PC software configuration to a date or time before a problem occurred. Windows Movie Maker provides users with the tools to digitally edit, save, and share home videos. And with Microsoft Windows Media Player 7 technologies, you can find, organize, and play digital media.

Windows 2000 Professional

Windows 2000Professional

More than just the upgrade to Windows NT Workstation 4.0, Windows 2000 Professional is designed to replaceWindows 95, Windows 98, and Windows NT Workstation 4.0 on all business desktops and laptops. Built on top of the proven Windows NT Workstation 4.0 code base, Windows 2000 adds major improvements in reliability, ease of use, Internet compatibility, and support for mobile computing.

Among other improvements, Windows 2000 Professional simplifies hardware installation by adding support for a wide variety of new Plug and Play hardware, including advanced networking and wireless products, USB devices, IEEE 1394 devices, and infrared devices.

2001–2005: Windows XP—Stable, usable, and fast

On October 25, 2001, Windows XP is released with a redesigned look and feel that's centered on usability and a unified Help and Support services center. It’s available in 25 languages. From the mid-1970s until the release of Windows XP, about 1 billion PCs have been shipped worldwide.

For Microsoft, Windows XP will become one of its best-selling products in the coming years. It’s both fast and stable. Navigating the Start menu, taskbar, and Control Panel are more intuitive. Awareness of computer viruses and hackers increases, but fears are to a certain extent calmed by the online delivery of security updates. Consumers begin to understand warnings about suspicious attachments and viruses. There’s more emphasis on Help and Support.

Windows XP Home Edition offers a clean, simplified visual design that makes frequently used features more accessible. Designed for home use, Windows XP offers such enhancements as the Network Setup Wizard, Windows Media Player,Windows Movie Maker, and enhanced digital photo capabilities.

Windows XP Professional brings the solid foundation of Windows 2000to the PC desktop, enhancing reliability, security, and performance. With a fresh visual design, Windows XP Professional includes features for business and advanced home computing, including remote desktop support, an encrypting file system, and system restore and advanced networking features. Key enhancements for mobile users include wireless 802.1x networking support, Windows Messenger, and Remote Assistance.

Windows XP has several editions during these years:

Windows XP 64-bit Edition (2001) is the first Microsoft operating system for 64-bit processors designed for working with large amounts of memory and projects such as movie special effects, 3D animations, engineering, and scientific programs.

Windows XP Media Center Edition (2002) is made for home computing and entertainment. You can browse the Internet, watch live television, enjoy digital music and video collections, and watch DVDs.

Windows XP Tablet PC Edition (2002) realizes the vision of pen-based computing. Tablet PCs include a digital pen for handwriting recognition and you can use the mouse or keyboard, too.

2006–2008: Windows Vista—Smart on security

Windows Vista is released in 2006 with the strongest security system yet. User Account Control helps prevent potentially harmful software from making changes to your computer. In Windows Vista Ultimate,BitLocker Drive Encryption provides better data protection for your computer, as laptop sales and security needs increase. Windows Vista also features enhancements to Windows Media Player as more and more people come to see their PCs as central locations for digital media. Here you can watch television, view and send photographs, and edit videos.

Windows Vista Ultimate

Design plays a big role in Windows Vista, and features such as the taskbar and the borders around windows get a brand new look. Search gets new emphasis and helps people find files on their PCs faster. Windows Vista introduces new editions that each have a different mix of features. It's available in 35 languages. The redesigned Start button makes its first appearance in Windows Vista.

2009–Today: Windows 7 and counting...

By the late 2000s, the wireless world has arrived. When Windows 7 is released in October 2009, laptops are outselling desktop PCs and it’s common to get online at public wireless hotspots like coffee shops. Wireless networks can be created at the office or at home.

Windows 7 includes many features, such as new ways to work with windows—Snap, Peek, and Shake.Windows Touch makes its debut, enabling you to use your fingers to browse the web, flip through photos, and open files and folders. You can stream music, videos, and photos from your PC to a stereo or TV.

By the fall of 2010, Windows 7 is selling seven copies a second—the fastest-selling operating system in history.

Improvements to the Windows 7 taskbar include live thumbnail previews

What's next?

Source: http://windows.microsoft.com/is-IS/windows/history

History of Linux Operating System

1986 Linus (Benedict) Torvalds programmed its own driver for its floppy controller. He learned intensively hardware programming and became better knowledge about his Sinclair computer with Q-DOS. Additionally he provided his own programmer Tools. When 1991 the 386-Intel PC became modern, he got one PC to learn about the programming of 386 CPUs. As operating system the Unix derivate MINIX was used, he has know Unix already since 1990 from its university. Minix was developed by Andrew Tanenbaum as learning system and was particularly used at universities. The written book from A. Tanenbaum "Operating Systems: Design and Implementation" is about operating system concepts and Minix, which became the favourite book from Torvalds. The source code of Minix is open source, any modifications are bound to the license conditions. 

Because he did not find the provided terminal emulator program in Minix acceptable, he began his project to code his own and better terminal emulator with more functions on hardware level. In addition he programmed his own drivers for the data medium access and the file system and others in assembler. With these functions the software becames the ability to upload and download from the Internet. In the line of the development terminal program got more and more functions so he made the decision to enhance it to a operating system. Its operating system was derivated from concepts of Minix but completely written from scratch beginning at the Kernel. After long programming evenings it was so far. On 17th September 1991 the operating system Freax version 0.01 was finished, as development environment was used still the MINIX for 386 CPUs. It contained already the GNU Shell bash and the GNU C-compiler GCC from Richard Stallman, which counts to the standard programs for the meantime named operating system Linux. Because Linux profits particularly from the GNU software pool, it is generally called GNU/Linux. 

After approximately 6 months Freax was renamed in Linux. Already on 3th July 1991 he had asked for the POSIX standards in the minix-newsgroup, he presented on 25th August 1991 his project in public and asked for suggestions for further functions and extensions. The source code was made freely accessible by ftp. To communicate with other programmers and interested people he used the Maylinglist "[email protected]" and the newsgroup "comp.os.minix" for contact and progress messages. Later its own Maylinglist and forums were created. In the line of

the development he received wished postcards from all over the world with thankfully words. The project has got a strong self-dynamic in the InterNet and was maintained by the community. The rights at the brand name Linux was transferred after a legal incident to Linus Torvalds and later distributed on several persons to ensure the further development and to avoid a "takeover by enemys". The symbol figure "Tux the penguin" was selected because Torvalds was bitten by a penguin in a Finnish zoo. The self-willed animal had impressed him in such a way, which it gave to its operating system this guidance figure. At the beginning Linux doesn`t contain any installation script or graphical installation menu. To make the installation from Linux easier and automated Owen LeBlanc from the Manchester Computing Centre published the MCC Interim release, this was the key for the automated installation of today's distributions. 

Debian GNU/Linux

The Debian GNU /Linux Project team is a special one under the distributors since it does not pursue any commercial targets. Since the foundation by Ian Murdock on 16th August 1993 Debian is cared by voluntary developers and supported by the FSF. Ian Murdock conducted the team to 1996. The name Debian gets together from Deb for Ian Murdock's Wife Debra and his first name together. Only software which was published completely under the GPL flows into the Debian distribution. Developed in Germany the main area lies more in Europe. Specified versions exist for Intel x86 and ARM systems. As unusual feature a format of one's own is used for the installation by software packages (Deb), just like the packet format RPM it resolves the dependences automatically, though according after another principle. The GUI Gnomes become preferred as standard. Up till now only a simple text mode for the installation is available. Debian has got synonymous for quality and stability. The code names as of release 1.1 are from figures from the digital cartoon film Toy Story. 

Ian Murdock set up a new company with Bruce Perens named Progeny Linux Systems in 2001. It is target to develop a network solution based on Debian GNU/Linux named Linux NOW (Network of Workstations). Linux NOW shall merge the advantages of efficient, flexible and scalable workstation with centralized solutions that are simply to be administered. The networked systems then form one single, smooth system with the advantages of those two worlds. A software product that uses this technique is the web-based Linux Platform Manager which accelerates the construction, administration and the test of distributions. 

Debian GNU/Linux 4.0 supports altogether 11 processor architectures, the software KDE 3.5.5 a, gnomes 2.14 and Xfce 4.4 were updated. The graphic interface for the installation was replaced and is available in 58 languages. At the installation also cryptographic software can be selected from more than 18,000 programmes. The compatibility with the FHS 2.3 and the LSB 3.1 is granted to. 

Ian Murdock changed to the company Sun in March 2007 and ended the business activity of Progeny Linux Systems to the end of 2007-04-30. His new work area is the coordination and strategic orientation of the business for Solaris to keep pace with Linux. 

The next stable release was Debian GNU/Linux 5.0 (Lenny) of 14 February 2009. For the first time, there is a graphical Debian installer. The hardware detection has been further improved. The configuration-free X-Server is included in version 7.3. Gnome is installed as standard desktop. The network setup is even easier with the Network Manager. 

A distribution based on Debian is Knoppix (Knoppers UNIX) from Klaus Knopper. It is a directly bootable live system from CD-ROM or DVD media. Knoppix is installable also on a fixed disk, e.g. it is suitable for a productive desktop system or also as a Rescue system. Knoppix 4.0 bases on Debian GNU/Linux 3.1 and was released on the event "Linux Tag 2005" on 06-22-2005. As a user surface KDE 3.4.1 and gnomes 2.8 can be chosen. By the cloop data compression over 9 gigabytes of software on a single layer DVD and to 2 GByte on a CD-ROM are possible. Knoppix based distributions are Freeduc, Kanotix, Quantian, Paipix, SymphonyOS und DSL (Damn Small Linux). Knoppix 5.1.0 was released on 2006-12-30. 

Ubuntu Linux is a well-known Debian distribution, on 20th October 2004 was the first release of Ubuntu 4.10. More aboutUbuntu Linux. 

BeatriX is based on Ubuntu, and therefore also supports Debian and Ubuntu packages. This distribution by Steven Watsky has been discontinued in 2005. More about BeatriX. 

Debian 3.0, startup screen of the

installation DVD

Debian 3.0, selection of the used language

Debian 3.0, notice to the project

Debian 3.0, install of the base system

Debian 3.0, notice about the install

process

Debian 3.0, setup of the operating system with

tasksel

Debian 3.0, Debian Task Installer, selection

of profiles

Debian 4.0, startup screen of the

installation DVD

Debian 4.0, selection of the used language

Debian 4.0, partition tool for the hard disk

Debian 4.0, install of the base system

Debian 4.0, selection of profiles

Debian 4.0, install of the additional software

Debian 4.0, startup screen from the hard

disk

Debian 4.0, login screen

Debian 4.0, gnome desktop with file

managr and terminal

Debian 4.0, query for the root password to

run the update manager

Debian 4.0, software management with Synaptic Package

Manager

Debian 4.0, playing of DivX Video

Debian 4.0, internet browser of the gnome

desktop

Debian 4.0, system monitor with CPU and

memory usage

Debian 5.03, Installer boot menu

Debian 5.03, Language selection

Debian 5.03, Select the keyboard layout

Debian 5.03, Installation is prepared

Debian 5.03, Hostname for the system

Debian 5.03, Partition disks

Debian 5.03, Selected for partitioning

Debian 5.03, Overview of currently configured

partitions

Debian 5.03, Install the base system

Debian 5.03, Set up root password

Debian 5.03, Configure the package manager

Debian 5.03, Network mirror

Debian 5.03, Configuring popularity

contest

Debian 5.03, Predefined collections

of software

Debian 5.03, Software is retrieved

Debian 5.03, Install the GRUB boot loader

Debian 5.03, Finish the installation

Debian 5.03, Login screen

Debian 5.03, Gnome Desktop

Debian 5.03, Internet browser and shell

Ubuntu 6.10, Live system running from DVD media, GNOME

2.16

BeatriX, Gnome desktop

Versions

Date Version1993 Aug. Debian GNU/Linux 0.11994 Jan. Debian GNU/Linux 0.91

1996 JuneDebian GNU/Linux 1.1 (buzz), Kernel 2.0.0, 474 software packages, .ELF support, dpkg

1996 Dec. Debian GNU/Linux 1.2 (rex), Kernel 2.0.27, 120 developers, 848

software packages

1997 JuneDebian GNU/Linux 1.3 (bo), kernel 2.0.29, 200 developers, 974 software packages

1998 JulyDebian GNU/Linux 2.0 (hamm), kernel 2.0.34, over 400 developers, more than 1,500 software packages included

1999 MarchDebian GNU/Linux 2.1 (slink), kernel 2.0.36, now for Sparc and Alpha platform available too, more than 2,250 software packages

2000 Aug.Debian GNU/Linux 2.2 (potato), kernel 2.2.19, FHS compatible, over 450 developers, more than 3,900 software packages, 55 million SLOC

2002 JulyDebian GNU/Linux 3.0 (woody), kernel 2.2.20, LSB compatible, gcc 2.95.4, now with crypto software, over 900 developers, more than 8,900 software packages

2005 June Debian GNU/Linux 3.1 (sarge)2007 April Debian 4.02009 Feb. Debian GNU/Linux 5.0

Lindows Company

Michael Robertson had announced the beginning of an ambitious project in August 2001. He was a CEO at MP3.com before. The operating system LindowsOS shall unite many advantages of Linux and Windows after the first completion. Programs of both Windows and Linux can be installed and executed easily. LindowsOS is a derivative of the Xandros distribution which based on Debian GNU/Linux, makes the execution of Windows programs by the smooth integration of the Wine project easily possible. One of broader advantages is the installation simply held, there are only less user details needed to install LindowsOS. With an agreement with WAL-MART Lindows has found a sales partner who offers a cheap PC system with preinstalled

LindowsOS

Lindows merged the stability of a Linux derivative with the usability and characteristics which one would rather assign to a Windows operating system. LindowsOS goes one step further. With the procedure named Click-N-Run programs or upgrades can be installed with one single mouse click. The costs for the software subscription amount are EUR 99 for 12 months. Registered users could choose at the beginning from more than 1,000 applications, in meanwhile this number has increased to over 2,400 programs in the year 2006. No licence is needed for the private use on several PCs. 

- zero Mayntenance - containing plug-and-play abilities for USB 1.0, USB 2.0 devices - improved driver software support particularly for multimedia devices - blocks Advertisements and Spam from the Internet 

In the legal controversy about the word similarity of the name Lindows to Microsoft Windows the opponents agreed about therenaming of Lindows in Linspire. The software product, logos as well as the website from Lindows was switched over to the changed naming in the period from April to the end of October 2004. In response Microsoft assured the payment of 20 million dollars and a time limited use of Windows Media components the distribution Linspire. For this Linspire put down the counter legal suit against the word mark for Windows. 

To the innovations of Linspire 5.0 of 2005/16/03 belongs the Kernel 2.6.10, KDE 3.3, X-Server 6.8.2, the Reiser4 file system and improved support for Notebooks with Intel Centrino and AMD PowerNow technology. The new user interface and the extended CNR technology have flowed into this version with more than 1,200 improvements altogether. 

Linspire announced the publication of a Linspire based pure open source distribution named Freespire on 2006/24/04. The project is supported by the Community. No version was published for download till now. 

LindowsOS Preview - Desktop

LindowsOS Preview - Browser, Lotus Notes and Microsoft Word

2000

LindowsOS Preview - desktop menu and

Microsoft Office 2000 program

4.5 - Lindows installation screen

4.5 - selection of the destination partition

4.5 - view of the Desktop

4.5 - program selection 4.5 - Overview about system settings

4.5 - file manager 4.5 - Playing a video file of a FAT32 partition

4.5 - Preview for graphic files

4.5 - Playing an audio file in the OGG format

with XMMS

4.5 - Quit of Lindows (switch off, warm start,

cold start)

4.5 - Mozilla internet browser - version

4.5 - Mozilla internet browser with online

website

4.5 - Internet connection for

downloads of Click-N-Run software

4.5 - Click-N-Run software for the selection of the

category

4.5 - Click-N-Run Software for the

program selection

5.0 - Linspire, boot menu

5.0 - boot screen

5.0 - Loading up screen for desktop

5.0 - view of the KDE desktop

5.0 - CNR service for programs

5.0 - Internet browser 1

5.0 - Internet browser 2 5.0 - Konqueror file manager and shell

5.0 - Linspire control center

5.0 - options for shut down

5.0 - Menu for program selection

Versions

Date Version2002 Sept. LindowsOS 2.02002 Nov. LindowsOS 3.02003 June LindowsOS 4.02003 Dec. LindowsOS 4.52005 March Linspire 5.0 (in english)2005 June Linspire 5.0 (in german)2006 Aug. Freespire 1.0

Red Flag Linux

Red Flag Software Co., Ltd. was founded of the software research institute "Chinese Academy of Sciences" and NewMargin venture capital in June 2000. Red Flag Software maintains business relations with IBM, Intel, HP, Oracle and other companys. Red Flag aimed at the implementation of buildings for training, technological support and point of sales in China and later worldwide. In several server variants they exists currently the Function Server, Database Server, Cluster Server and Webmail Server in version 3.0. 

Red Flag came in an alliance with Miracle and Oracle for the Asian Linux at the beginning of January 2004. This shall guarantee an free alternative operating systems for servers and desktops. The server software shall be certified in the Oracle China Development centre. South Korea, Japan and China announced already in September 2003 to create an alternative for Windows. With the certification of users both the involved companies and the customers can profit. 

Red Flag 4 Boot Screen of CD-ROM

Red Flag 4 Licence Agreement

Red Flag 4 Installation process

Red Flag 4 GRUB Boot Loader

Red Flag 4 graphical boot process

Red Flag 4 graphical Login

Red Flag 4 Default Desktop KDE

Red Flag 4 Internet Browser and Start Menu

Red Flag 5 Boot Screen of CD-ROM

Red Flag 5 Welcome Screen

Red Flag 5 Asianux Logo

Red Flag 5 Languages (Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean)

Red Flag 5 automatic Partitioning

Red Flag 5 Summary of Partitioning

Red Flag 5 Network Configuration

Red Flag 5 Select software profile

Red Flag 5 Installation process

Red Flag 5 Boot Loader Red Flag 5 graphical Login

Red Flag 5 Default Desktop KDE

Red Flag 5 System Informations and

Console

Red Flag 5 Mozilla Firefox Internet

Browser

Red Flag 5 Start Menu and Control Panel

Red Flag 5 Taskmanager and Desktop Menu

Versions

Date Version1999 Oct. Redflag Linux Server 1.0 launched

2000 Oct.Redflag Linux Server 2.0 in many different languages available

1999 Sept. Redflag Linux Desktop 1.02000 Oct. Redflag Linux Desktop 2.02001 April Redflag Linux Desktop 2.42002 April Redflag Linux Desktop 3.02002 Aug. Redflag Linux Desktop 3.2

2003 July Redflag Linux Desktop 4.02004 Nov.,Redflag Linux Desktop 4.12005 Nov Redflag Linux Desktop 5.02007 Sept. Redflag Linux Desktop 6.02008 Jan. Redflag Linux Desktop 6.0 SP12009 Feb. Redflag Linux Desktop 6.0 SP22010 March Redflag Linux Desktop 6.3

SuSE

SuSE GmbH (society for software and system development) is a daughter enterprise of SuSE Linux AG. SuSE was founded on 2-9-1992 of Burchard Steinbild, Hubert Mantel, Thomas Fehr and Roland Dyroff and offers a Linux distribution of its own in the European area. Additional Programs and IT services like support and trainings are offered. SuSE cooperates closely with other IT companies, SuSE Linux was certified for the Oracle 9 I database already in 2001. A green chameleon serves as symbol figure. The SuSE Linux distribution defines itself from the current Linux kernel, the X Window system and the KDE interface as standard GUI. Software can be installed over precompiled packages in the .RPM format. Driver software and applications are permanently renewed and kept on the newest stand. 

SuSE Linux has taken a high value in Germany/Europe. The first distribution was published in 1996 and the latest published versions can be used in the private area, or commercial area for servers. Support and services are offered for companies and private users. There are additional special software products like firewall and mail servers von SuSE. 

Other services - SuSE Linux Business Solutions - SuSE Linux Enterprise Platform - SuSE Linux eMayl Server II - SuSE Linux Groupware Server with Lotus Domino - SuSE Linux Enterprise Server for S/390 This list does not lay any claim to completeness 

Field of Application Server operating system, Internet server, firewall, web server, mail server, database server, from embedded systems up to large computers and cluster systems usable USB, PCMCIA, IEEE 1394, AGP and DVD are better supported now; SCSI was programmed partly new 

Structure information Monolithic kernel, capable for modules Hardware is used through symbolic interfacesRead/Write access: FAT, FAT32, UFS, (FreeBSD, only read), HPFS, NTFS read only 

System Environment Intel (x86), PowerPC, Alpha, Motorola 68 K, SPARC, UltraSparc, ARM, MIPS, SuperH (RISC CPU of Hitachi) Till now 32-bit on Intel, 64-bit on UltraSparc and Alpha systems as well as Intel 64-bit architectur - Time sharing system - RAM support: up to 64 gbyte - Partition size: up to 2 tbyte - File size is theoretically 16 tbyte - Graphical interfaces like KDE2 and Gnome - Real multi-user ability 

Strengths - faultless run time behavior - Support for LDAP authentification and NDS - High stability and performance in networks - network features, fulfilled as first operating system completely the valid standards IPv4/IPv6 - Ported databases of Oracle, Informix, Sybase, IBM, Inprise, SAP - High security by file system and access restrictions - Large number of Users, extensive documentation - Very high customization ability and hardware optimization 

Version 7.1 Split up into a client and server installation by own Personal and Professional Edition. The Personal Edition is aimed to beginners and home users, the Professional Edition with 2,000 optional programs and server applications rather for advanced and professional users. The SuSE operating system is available besides x86 CPUs also for PowerPC and Alpha. SuSE Linux can be installed by 6 CDs or 1 DVD, about 1,800 programs are contained for an wide field of application. The complete full installation takes about 6.5 gbyte harddisk storage space. 

Novell announced the take-over of the company SuSE Linux on 4-11-2003. 

Suse Linux 10.1 exclusively uses open source software and is available for systems with x86, x64 and PowerPC processors. The integration of the virtualization solution Xen 3.0.2 and the safety enhancement AppArmor was improved. Assistants watch the behaviour of an application and can create an AppArmor profile from this. With Xgl 3D effects come onto the desktop. This release is used for Suse Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) and Suse Linux Enterprise Desktop (SLED) as a code base. 

Screenshots

SuSE 7.0 - boot screen for the Installation of

CD-ROM

SuSE 7.0 - at every booting procedure the system processes the configuration scripts and starts the Shell

SuSE 7.0 - SuSE Linux 7.0 with KDE Surface

SuSE 7.0 - SuSE Linux 7.0 with opened menu

SuSE 7.0 - SuSE Linux 7.0 with KDE controll

centre

SuSE 7.0 - SuSE Linux 7.0 provides now different YAST2

assistants for the selection to avoid

manuall configurations

SuSE 7.0 - SuSE Linux 7.0 with normal file

manager and opened Root directory

SuSE 7.0 - shows running system processes in the process manager

SuSE 7.1 - KDE2 welcome message, with

graphical improvements

SuSE 7.1 - KDE2 program menu

SuSE 7.1 - KDE2 Konqueror supports now the preview of

graphics in directories too

SuSE 7.1 - KDE2 control centre, system

information

SuSE 9 - boot screen 9 - boot menu 9 - Installation progress 9 - Starting screen of the KDE surface

9 - KDE desktop with console window

9 - Program menu and Konqueror file browser

9 - KDE control centre 9 - OpenOffice program

SuSE Linux 10.0 - boot process

SuSE Linux 10.0 - Installation assistant

SuSE Linux 10.0 - licence agreement

SuSE Linux 10.0 - Desktop selection (KDE,

Gnome, other)

SuSE Linux 10.0 - settings

SuSE Linux 10.0 - file copy process

SuSE Linux 10.0 - configuration

SuSE Linux 10.0 - Yast online update

SuSE Linux 10.0 - selection of the patches

SuSE Linux 10.0 - installation

SuSE Linux 10.0 - Login screen

SuSE Linux 10.0 - KDE desktop

SuSE Linux 10.0 - KDE control centre and shell

SuSE Linux 10.0 - welcome message

SuSE Linux 10.0 - Konqueror and KDE

menu

SuSE Linux 10.0 - OpenOffice and Firefox

browser

SuSE LED 10.1, Boot menu before installation

SuSE LED 10.1, Choice of the language

SuSE LED 10.1, Licence agreement

SuSE LED 10.1, Confirming installation

SuSE LED 10.1, Files are copied

SuSE LED 10.1, Configuration Customer

Center

SuSE LED 10.1, Standard desktop

SuSE LED 10.1, Program menu and

Shell

SuSE LED 10.1, Firefox Internet Browser

SuSE LED 10.1, Program Overview

SuSE LED 10.1, System Configuration

SuSE LED 10.1, Running processes

Versions

Date Version--- SuSE Linux 1.0--- SuSE Linux 2.0--- SuSE Linux 3.01996 May SuSE Linux 4.2,1996 Sept. SuSE Linux 4.3,1996 Nov. SuSE Linux 4.4,1997 July SuSE Linux 5.0,1997 Dec. SuSE Linux 5.1,1998 March SuSE Linux 5.2,1998 Sept. SuSE Linux 5.3 Kernel 2.0.35,1999 Feb. SuSE Linux 6.0,1999 Sept. SuSE Linux 6.1,1999 Aug. SuSE Linux 6.2 Kernel 2.2.10,

1999 Nov.SuSE Linux 6.3 improved and simplified Installation with Yast2, optimized on hardware,

2000 Mrz.SuSE Linux 6.4 ReiserFS, improved Plug_n_Play 64-bit operating system

2000 Aug. SuSE Linux 7.0 Kernel 2.4 PRE YAST 2 XFree86 4.0,2001 Feb. SuSE Linux 7.1 KDE2 and Kernel 2.4.1 integrated2001 May SuSE Linux 7.2,2001 Oct. SuSE Linux 7.3 Kernel 2.4.10 KDE 2.2.1,2002 July SuSE Linux 8.0,

2002 Oct.SuSE Linux 8.1 Kernel 2.4.19 gcc 3.2 XFree86 4.2 Gnome 2.0 KDE 3.0.3 ACPI complete supported

2003 April SuSE Linux 8.22003 Oct. SuSE Linux 9.02004 Oct. SuSE Linux 9.2

2005 April

SuSE Linux 9.3, with Software Xen for several parallel running operating systems on a PC, KDE 3.4, Gnome 2.10, OpenOffice 2.0 Beta, Mono 1.1.4, Eclipse 3.0.1, in versions for 32-bit and 64-bit processors

2006 May Suse Linux 10.12006 Dez. openSUSE 10.22007 Okt. openSUSE 10.3

Gentoo Linux

Gentoo was founded by Daniel Robbins in the year 2001. The first version 1.0 has been published in March 2002. Gentoo offers a special and powerful installation program named Portage. This installs the programs or the source code after the package selection, optionally from the Internet, a high-speed Internet connection is recommendable. Advantages are the use of always most current software as well as the special customization and optimization on the existing hardware and the field of application. Portage takes care of it automatically. The software must be compiled at every installation, there are no precompiled software packages as in the case of other distributions. A speed advantage at modern processors of 20% compared with software compiled normally is possible. Gentoo Linux is usably on the x86, PowerPC, UltraSparc and alpha architecture. Gentoo Linux 1.4 (08-05-2003) is based on the new gcc 3.2 and current Linux Kernel 2.4.19, over 4,000 software packages can be chosen. 

D. Robbins decided to take distance in April 2004 of his roll as boss developer at Gentoo. On 23th May 2005 D. Robbins changed to Microsoft, before he transferred all rights and intellectual property at the Gentoo project to the charitable Gentoo-Foundation. 

Gentoo 2006 Boot Screen of CD-ROM

Gentoo 2006 Default Desktop GNOME

Gentoo 2006 Mozilla Firefox Internet Browser

Gentoo 2011 boot screen of DVD

Gentoo 2011 desktop Gentoo 2011 file manager and Terminal

Gentoo 2011 Konqueror internet browser

Versions

Date Version2005 March Gentoo 2005.0, software and security updates

2006 Feb.Gentoo Linux 2006.0, KDE 3.4.3, gnome 2.12.2, XFCE 4.2.2, GCC 3.4.4 and Kernel 2.6.15

2006 Aug.Gentoo Linux 2006.1, GCC 4.1, glibc 2.4, supports officially dual core G5 processors of the PPC platform

2007 May Gentoo 2007.02008 July Gentoo Linux 2008.02009 Oct. Gentoo Linux 10.02011 March Gentoo Linux 11.0

Mandriva (Mandrake Linux)

MandrakeSoft was founded in France in 1998. With the distribution Mandrake Linux based on Linux and configuration tools of its own as well as specified KDE surface the target was put to be installable as simply as possible operably and without problems. RPM is used as a packet format for software, one recognizes the precompiled software by the code contained in the package name, "mdk", for Mandrake Linux. It is available as a desktop and server version. 

Test: July 2003 

The installation of Mandrake proceeds uncomplicatedly. By dialog procedures the system is established, the kind of installation can with or without surfaces, development, console tools as well as server applications be selected comfortably. As a typical workstation with Open Office the installation uses approx. 1.1 GByte storage space, as complete server installation 490 MByte and as a development environment only 370 MByte. If one selects all components, the setup installs 1.7 GByte of the 3 CD-ROMs. As a booting manager lilo is installed, after the graphical booting procedure the first-time assistent enabling the configuration of the GUI and the e-mail client. 

Update March 2004, Mandrakelinux 10.0 Community Release: The ISO images of the three CDs be able to download or to send by an ISO distributor on CD-ROM at mail. ontained are the Kernel 2.6.3, XFree86 4.3, GCC 3.3.2 and glibc 2.3.3. You can choice between the KDE 3.2, gnomes 2.4.2 and IceWM 1.2.13 desktop. Standard applications are the web suite Mozilla 1.6 and Open Office 1.1. Details of the control centre became improved, software tools for the DVD burning and for the network set up were revised. 

From the fusion of Mandrakesoft and Conectiva was Mandriva formed. Mandrakesoft published the take-over of the Linux enterprise Conectiva leading in Brazil and Latin America on 24-2-2005. This strengthens the know how of Mandrakesoft in the area of research and development. The strengths of Conectiva were broad Linux software solutions for big firms, enterprises and authorities in whole Latin America. Mandrakesoft purchases all shares of Conectiva for about 1.8 million euros in shares. 

Mandriva published his new Linux distribution Mandriva limited edition 2005 on 04-13-05. Processors with dual core are supported now and besides 32 bits also 64 bit processors. The contained applications for the web became improved as others like GCC 3.4.3, OpenOffice.org 1.1.4 and MySQL 4.1.11 are part of the installation package with better hardware suport too. The Linux Kernel 2.6.11.6, KDE 3.3.2 and gnomes 2.8.3 are up to date. 

The agreement between Mandriva and Lycoris to take on values in the form of patents and enterprise parts was published on06-15-2005. The founder of Lycoris, Joseph Cheek, changes to Mandriva. A new and better Linux product shall arise for the desktop and the development of desktop technologies be accelerated by the acquisition. Lycoris has developed special customizations of his Lycoris desktop/LX distribution for Tablet and Pocket PCs. Both distributions shall unify into a common product. 

Mandriva Linux 2007 is available in 3 versions. The Discovery Pack is designed for beginners, Powerpack is aimed to to the advanced user and Powerpack+ for SOHO user. The GNOME 2.16 or KDE 3.5.4 desktop can be used on AIGLX and Xgl with 3D functions. A complete DVD video player is available with LinDVD, with Cedega of TransGaming PC Windows games are playable. 

Mandrake Linux 9.1, Konqueror browser with

Mandrake favourites

Mandrake Linux 9.1, KDE 3.1 desktop and

KDE menu

Mandrake Linux 9.1, Support and online help

Mandrake Linux 9.1, bash Shell

Mandrake Linux 10, Welcome message

Mandrake Linux 10, Mandrake Desktop with

program selection

Mandrake Linux 10, Configuration of

Mandrake sorted by category

Mandrake Linux 10, category: system

Mandrake Linux 10, category: services

Mandrake Linux 10, category: hardware

Mandrake Linux 10, console

Mandrake Linux 10, preview of video- and

audio files

Mandriva 2006 - boot menu

Mandriva 2006 - Licence agreement

Mandriva 2006 - Installation media

Mandriva 2006 - selection of software

Mandriva 2006 - progress for file copy

Mandriva 2006 - Internet update of

software

Mandriva 2006 - Mandriva website

Mandriva 2006 - KDE 3.4 interface and menu

Mandriva 2006 - Shell with Root- directory and

version

Mandriva 2006 - control centre

Mandriva 2008 Boot Screen of CD-ROM

Mandriva 2008 Choice of Language

Mandriva 2008 Select software profile

Mandriva 2008 Installation process

Mandriva 2008 Boot Loader

Mandriva 2008 graphical Login

Mandriva 2008 Default Desktop KDE

Versions

Date Version1998 July Mandrake Linux 5.1 (venice) kernel 2.0.351998 Dec. Mandrake Linux 5.2 (leeloo) kernel 2.0.361999 Feb. Mandrake Linux 5.3 (festen) kernel 2.0.361999 May Mandrake Linux 6.0 (venus) kernel 2.2.91999 Sep. Mandrake Linux 6.1 (helios) kernel 2.2.13

2000 Jan. Mandrake Linux 7.0 (air) kernel 2.2.142000 June Mandrake Linux 7.1 (helium) kernel 2.2.152000 Oct. Mandrake Linux 7.2 (ulysses) kernel 2.2.172001 April Mandrake Linux 8.0 (traktopel) kernel 2.4.3, ext3, JFS, ReiserFS, XFS2001 Sept. Mandrake Linux 8.1 (vitamin) kernel 2.4.82002 March Mandrake Linux 8.2 (bluebird) kernel 2.4.182002 Sept. Mandrake Linux 9.0 (dolphin) kernel 2.4.19, gcc 3.2, XFree86 4.2.12003 March Mandrake Linux 9.1 (bamboo) kernel 2.4.212004 March Mandrake Linux 10.0 kernel 2.6.32005 Sept. Mandrake Linux 10.12005 April Mandriva Limited Edition 20052005 Oct. Mandriva Linux 20062006 Oct. Mandriva Linux 20072007 Sept. Mandriva Linux 20082008 Sept. Mandriva Linux 2008 Spring

Red Hat

The company Red Hat with company headquarters in the USA North Carolina was founded 1994 by Bob Young and Marc Ewing. From the beginning the open source operating system has played a high role for the enterprise concept. The field of application reached from miniature devices over work stations up to server systems on Intel x86, Dec alpha and Sun SPARC systems. One strengthens of Red Hat Linux is the application in InterNet and Intranet. Extensive support, training and training offers as well as the broad support of IT companies carry to the growth of Red Hat constantly. Red Hat reached with his Linux distribution about 15 % by the gross income, a majority income is realized by competent services like the Redhat network - RHN. With the software package format RPM, Red Hat has set a standard which many distributions followed. 

1998: Partnerships with Intel and Netscape 1999: Partnerships with SAP, Oracle, IBM, Compaq, Dell and Novell 

The Fedora project is one of Red Hat approved Consumer version of the Linux distribution Red Hat Linux. This open source project is sponsored by Red Hat, but lies independently in administration of the Linux Community. In May 2004 the Fedora core 2 for the x86-64 and i386 architecture was published, used the Linux Kernel 2.6, the new X-server of X.org and the extended access protection SELinux in the Kernel. 

With the new Fedora Linux core 4 the contained software was brought up to date. GCC 4.0, gnomes 2.10, KDE 3.4, OpenOffice 2.0 beta, the development environment Eclipse 3.1 and the universal document viewer Evince 0.2.1 belongs to this software now. Beside the x86 32-Bit and x86 64-Bit architecture is now Fedora also installable on power PC systems. The global file system (GFS) in version 6.1 is used for Cluster systems, Xen 2 creates a virtual environment for guest systems. For the minimum installation are 620 MByte up to 7 GByte (everything to install) free storage space needed. Fedora Linux Core 5 contains new graphic tools for the software management, the GNOME 2.14 and KDE 3.5 desktop and the standard Web browser Firefox 1.5. The Linux Kernel is updated on version 2.6.16, Apache Server 2.2, X.org X11R7.0, GCC 4.1 and SELinux were revised. The printing system was completely revised in Fedora Linux Core 6 and based on CUPS 1.2. Fedora Core 6 builds the basis for Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5 (RHEL). This release is without any commercial software like Java, NTFS support, flash, MP3 codec and DVD software player for encoded DVDs. Graphic drivers of ATI and Nvidia are also missing. The software was updated, for the installation the X server X.org 7.1, GNOME 2.16, KDE 3.5.4, Firefox 1.5.0.6, Thunderbird 1.5.0.5, OpenOffice.org 2.0.4, Apache web server 2.2.3, MySQL 5.0.22, PHP 5.1.6 and the free .Net implementation Mono 1.1.17.1 can be selected. In February 2006 the Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) version 4 operating system was certified for safety according to the Common-Criteria EAL4+. CentOS, the Community ENTerprise Operating System, is based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) operating system and is a liberal and free alternative to RHEL. Contained are the gnome and KDE desktop. 

Screenshots

Red Hat 9 Boot Screen of CD-ROM

Red Hat 9 Welcome Screen

Red Hat 9 Select software profile

Red Hat 9 Confirm software profile

Red Hat 9 Installation process

Red Hat 9 GRUB Boot Loader

Red Hat 9 basic configuration

Red Hat 9 graphical Login

Red Hat 9 Default Desktop GNOME

Red Hat 9 Internet Browser and Desktop

Menu

Red Hat 9 Console with Root Directory

Fedora Core 5 Boot Screen of CD-ROM

Fedora Core 5 Welcome Screen

Fedora Core 5 Select software profile

Fedora Core 5 Installation process

Fedora Core 5 basic configuration

Fedora Core 5 Firewall Settings

Fedora Core 5 SELinux Settings

Fedora Core 5 graphical Login

Fedora Core 5 Default Desktop GNOME

Versions

Date Version1995 Red Hat Linux 1.0 (mother's day), kernel ?1995 Red Hat Linux 2.0 (?), kernel ?1996 May Red Hat Linux 3.0.3 (picasso), kernel 1.21996 Oct. Red Hat Linux 4.0 (colgate), kernel ?1997 April Red Hat Linux 4.2 (biltmore), kernel 2.0.301997 Nov. Red Hat Linux 5.0 (hurricane), kernel 2.0.321998 May Red Hat Linux 5.1 (manhattan), kernel 2.0.341998 Oct. Red Hat Linux 5.2 (apollo), kernel 2.0.361999 April Red Hat Linux 6.0 (hedwig), kernel 2.2.51999 Sep. Red Hat Linux 6.1 (cartman), kernel 2.2.122000 March Red Hat Linux 6.2 (zoot), kernel 2.2.142000 Aug. Red Hat Linux 7.0 (guiness), kernel 2.2.16

2001 April Red Hat Linux 7.1 (seawolf), kernel 2.4.22001 Oct. Red Hat Linux 7.2 (enigma), kernel 2.4.72002 May Red Hat Linux 7.3 (vallhalla), kernel 2.4.18, ext32002 Sept. Red Hat Linux 8.0 (psyche), gcc 3.2, kernel 2.4.182003 April Red Hat Linux 9.0 (shrike), gcc 3.2.1, kernel 2.4.202003 Nov. Fedora Linux Core 12004 May Fedora Linux Core 22004 Nov. Fedora Linux Core 32005 June Fedora Linux Core 4, kernel 2.6.92006 March Fedora Linux Core 52006 Oct. Fedora Linux Core 62007 May Fedora Linux Core 72007 Nov. Fedora Linux Core 82008 May Fedora Linux Core 92005 Jan. CentOS 3.42006 March CentOS 4.02006 March CentOS 4.32007 Dec. CentOS 4.62008 Sept. CentOS 4.7, based on open source code of RHEL 4.72007 Dec. CentOS 5.12008 June CentOS 5.2, based on open source code of RHEL 5.2

Slackware

On 17 July 1993 Patrick Volkerding announced the completion of Slackware version 1.0 in the newsgroup comp.os.linux, interested could download by ftp the installation packages. From the beginning the public Linux standard was considered. As package format for programs TGZ of archives are used, the preferential surface is KDE. It exist only a text-based Setup. Slackware was ported for Sparc, alpha and x86 of systems. Slackware addresses itself to the experienced user and developers. 

Slackware version 12.0 contains the Linux kernel 2.6.21.5 and as graphic interface KDE 3.5.7. The slighter window manager Xfce 4.4.1 can alternatively be used. The operating system offers complete support for encrypted network connections with OpenSSL, OpenSSH, OpenVPN and GnuPG. The hardware support is enlarged by PCMCIA, CardBus, USB, IEE 1394 (FireWire) and ACPI. 

The 1 CD-ROM distribution Zenwalk Linux profits from the simplicity and stability of the Slackware distribution. As a slim desktop alternative it puts the main emphasis on it most current stable software releases an application per field of application and installation profiles for use as a development platform, desktop or multimedia. The simple network administration tool netpkg is contained. 

12.2005 Zenwalk Linux 2.0.1 09.2006 Zenwalk Linux 3.0 11.2006 Zenwalk Linux 4.0 01.2007 Zenwalk Linux 4.2 

Screenshots

Slackware 12, Boot screen

Slackware 12, Login Slackware 12, partition with cfdisk

Slackware 12, package manager

Slackware 12, Lilo Boot menu

Slackware 12, KDE Login screen

Slackware 12, Shell and Internet browser

Slackware 12, KDE Control Center and file

manager

Versions

Date Version1993 July Slackware 1.01994 July Slackware 2.01994 Oct. Slackware 2.11995 March Slackware 2.21995 May Slackware 2.31995 Aug. Slackware 3.01996 July Slackware 3.11997 April Slackware 3.21997 July Slackware 3.3, Kernel 2.0.301997 Oct. Slackware 3.4, Kernel 2.0.331998 Oct. Slackware 3.6, Kernel 2.0.351999 May Slackware 3.9, Kernel 2.0.37pre101999 May Slackware 4.0, Kernel 2.2.71999 Oct. Slackware 7.0, Kernel 2.2.132000 June Slackware 7.1, Kernel 2.2.162001 June Slackware 8.0, Kernel 2.2.192002 June Slackware 8.1, Kernel 2.4.182002 Aug. Slackware 9.0beta, Kernel 2.4.19 based on gcc 3.22004 June Slackware 10, Kernel 2.4.26 gnome 2.6.1 kde 3.2.3 X11R6.72005 Feb. Slackware 10.12006 Oct. Slackware 112007 July Slackware 122008 May Slackware 12.12008 Dec. Slackware 12.22009 Aug. Slackware 13.02010 May Slackware 13.12011 April Slackware 13.37

Source: http://www.operating-system.org/betriebssystem/_english/bs-linux.htm