Canonical’s persistent efforts to perfect the new age Unity desktop for Ubuntu Linux has gotten them in trouble with lots of long-term users, but the Ubuntu project is always quick to point out to the critics: “This is Linux. If you don’t like the desktop, change it!”

Klaus Knopper is the creator of Knoppix and co-founder of LinuxTag expo. He currently works as a teacher, programmer, and consultant. If you have a configuration problem, or if you just want to learn more about how Linux works, send your questions to: klaus@linux-magazine.com

The latest Knoppix Live Linux DVD is based on Debian stable (squeeze) with newer desktop packages from Debian/ testing and Debian/ unstable (wheezy). Current computer hardware is supported by kernel 3.4.9 and Xorg 7.7 (core 1.12.3), and the Apt database now contains all data necessary to install software directly via Synaptic.

Klaus Knopper is the creator of Knoppix and co-founder of LinuxTag expo. He currently works as a teacher, programmer, and consultant. If you have a configuration problem, or if you just want to learn more about how Linux works, send your questions to: klaus@linux-magazine.com

The double-sided DVD attached to this issue comes with 32- and 64-bit versions of the latest release from the openSUSE project. openSUSE 12.2 continues in the long tradition of SUSE Linux, offering a full-featured system that is ready for the server room yet friendly enough for the desktop.

Mageia Linux is a multi-purpose distro based on the Mandriva codebase. A group of former Mandriva engineers started the Mageia project in 2010 as a means to ensure continuing support for the Mandriva community through a non-profit organization free of corporate control.