Review: 3 Linux Desktops Put To The Test

System builders considering a Linux desktop are faced with a dizzying array of choices. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of Linux distributions to choose from. Narrowing the field of contenders basically comes down to what works best for both the system builder and its customers.

Finding that fit often leads system builders to pursue a commercial distribution over an open-source one. Today's commercial desktop Linux distributions make a lot of sense for system builders, mostly because of three factors: recurring revenue, licensing and support. With that in mind, the CRN Test Center set out to compare commercial versions of Linux that are aimed at the channel, specifically the custom-system channel.

After considering several commercial distributions, the Test Center narrowed the field to three channel-friendly players: Linspire, San Diego; Novell, Waltham, Mass.; and Xandros, Ottawa, and their respective products: Linspire Five-0, SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10 (SLED 10) and Xandros Business Desktop Linux.

While comparing these three very different distributions proves to be difficult, all have one thing in common -- a desire to be the Linux of choice on desktop computers, and that requires a commitment to system builders.

Comparing these products head to head requires breaking down the category into the areas that matter most to system builders. For our criteria, we focused on installation, features, support, compatibility, value, user experience and channel programs.

EASE OF INSTALLATION
While each of the distributions offer simplified installation, they each take a different path to the installation process. We also considered that system builders have different needs than end users, and are most concerned with installation shortcuts, such as imaging, scripting and mass deployment tools.

Linspire dives head first into the system builder market by offering a system-builder-specific channel program. Part of that program consists of allowing system builders access to ISO-based distributions that are geared toward mass deployment of the Linspire OS via imaging technology. What's more, Linspire offers its Burn-It and Ship-It tools, which make it easy for system builders to test and prepare their desktop Linux computer systems for the marketplace. Ship-It restores the Linspire OS to a first-boot experience, allowing system builders to deliver a system that is ready for customers to customize.

With SLED 10, system builders can use the AutoYaST tool to build and deploy SLED 10 distributions via a network connection. Using that method, white-box assemblers can boot off a network connection and then have SLED 10 pushed down to the system. Otherwise, installers will have to go through a lengthy but simple standard installation.

SLED 10 has an additional advantage: In early November, Novell and Microsoft agreed to share some technology and development items, which should bring about more options for deploying SLED 10 on Windows-based networks.

The installation wizard associated with Xandros is aimed at the end user. But the company does offer a special ISO build for system builders, which provides a special first-boot wizard. That feature allows users of OEM systems to configure their user settings when they receive the system.

NEXT: How they stack up on features, support