Knoppix 5.3.1: Lenny Basis, KDE 4.0 and Accessibility Software
Klaus Knopper has released version 5.3.1 of his live Knoppix system. The codebase comes courtesy of Lenny, the next generation Debian.
After demonstrating the new release at CeBIT 2008, Knopper has now released an updated version. The software packages are from the Debian "testing" and "unstable" repositories. The kernel version is 2.6.24.4 with QEmu, KVM, and Virtualbox virtualization modules. Knopper has also moved the initial boot system from Initrd to Initramfs to facilitate customization.
Another new feature: Klaus Knopper now includes the KDE 4.0 desktop environment with his Linux distribution, although this is an experimental boot option. By default the current Knoppix still uses KDE version 3.5.9. Applications include Open Office 2.3.1. The 3D Compiz 0.7.3 window manager and experimental Compiz Fusion modules provide graphical effects.
Knoppix is renowned for its hardware support which now includes updated wireless drivers and IPW firmware; on top of this Ndiswrapper provides a workaround that helps bind Windows drivers.
Accessibility software including the first release of the Adriane desktop with text-to-speech and braille display support facilitates computer use for visually or physically challenged users. The Orca screen reader supports interaction with GTK+ programs.
DVD images are available for downloading from the Knoppix mirrors, Bittorrent and Emule.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

News
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.