Sidux "Pontos": Debian Derivative in New Version
The Debian-based distro Sidux will shortly have a new version, code-named Pontos, that will concentrate on getting the Kernel 2.6.27 changes integrated error free.
The Sidux project essentially uses Debian Sid code, rids it of its most egregious bugs and enhances the distro with a few new scripts and packages.
Live CDs for Sidux Pontos are available for download for various desktops: a KDE-lite (English and German) at 460 MBytes and a KDE-full (more languages) at 1.9 Gbytes for 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The version of KDE is 3.5.10. Pontos is also available for XFCE desktops. It also supports X.org 7.3 and many other WLAN chips, such as from Intel (3945 and 4965) and Atheros (ath5k with 54/108 Mbits and ath9k with 802.11 draft-n).
Among the most obvious bugs Pontos fixes is one involving multiple optical disk drives. New in the software is insserv that reorders and opimizes the sysv initscripts, whereby users have an easier time activating and deactivating these scripts. Pontos also overhauled the installer and added new Internet access tools to handle PPP and GPRS/UMTS connections.
A separate webpage includes hints for hardware with non-free components. Because Kernel 2.6.27 splits out some binary firmware blobs, an extra repository holds the software for hardware with proprietary firmware. The list provided shows which devices are affected, including a few WLAN, DVB and audio cards, as well as a Bluetooth chipset.
Users wondering whether Sidux runs on its own processor can consult a list of hardware requirements. The best download site is probably here.
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
-
Framework Laptop 13 Pro Competes with the Best
Framework has released what might be considered the MacBook of Linux devices.
-
The Latest CachyOS Features Supercharged Kernel
The latest release of CachyOS brings with it an enhanced version of the latest Linux kernel.
-
Kernel 7.0 Is a Bit More Rusty
Linux kernel 7.0 has been released for general availability, with Rust finally getting its due.
-
France Says "Au Revoir" to Microsoft
In a move that should surprise no one, France announced plans to reduce its reliance on US technology, and Microsoft Windows is the first to get the boot.
-
CIQ Releases Compatibility Catalog for Rocky Linux
The company behind Rocky Linux is making an open catalog available to developers, hobbyists, and other contributors, so they can verify and publish compatibility with the CIQ lineup.
-
KDE Gets Some Resuscitation
KDE is bringing back two themes that vanished a few years ago, putting a bit more air under its wings.
-
Ubuntu 26.04 Beta Arrives with Some Surprises
Ubuntu 26.04 is almost here, but the beta version has been released, and it might surprise some people.
-
Ubuntu MATE Dev Leaving After 12 years
Martin Wimpress, the maintainer of Ubuntu MATE, is now searching for his successor. Are you the next in line?
-
Kali Linux Waxes Nostalgic with BackTrack Mode
For those who've used Kali Linux since its inception, the changes with the new release are sure to put a smile on your face.
-
Gnome 50 Smooths Out NVIDIA GPU Issues
Gamers rejoice, your favorite pastime just got better with Gnome 50 and NVIDIA GPUs.
