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Gentoo Linux 2006.0 Released!
Posted in Linux on Tuesday, 28th February 2006
Yay, a new gentoo version? Really, who cares? The nature of Gentoo is that your operating system is always up-to-date, regardless of how old the install disc is. However, this version is significant because it marks the official introduction of the GUI Installer.
Major highlights in the release include KDE 3.4.3, GNOME 2.12.2, XFCE 4.2.2, GCC 3.4.4 and a 2.6.15 kernel. This is also the first release with the Gentoo Linux Installer officially debuting on the x86 LiveCD, which will fully replace the Universal and PackageCD set. The LiveCD also features a fully-fledged Gnome environment. Later releases will include KDE support as well as a new LiveDVD.
I’m familiar with the Gentoo CLI install, infact I’m capable of performing the install without the assistance of the handbook. In contrast, this CLI install has made many people reluctant to use Gentoo. Now that stage3 has now become the “recommended” install method, I really see no advantage using a CLI over the GUI. Infact, it’ll probably speed up the process of installing. That said, I know the CLI method and I’m comfortable with it.
At an added bonus, you can boot into a Live GNOME environment and perform a CLI install from a terminal. Now, you might say this is rather pointless, but isn’t it rather boring when you can’t use your computer for a few hours because you’re busy compiling? Sure, you can use IRSSI, but what about graphical web browsing? Since you’re in a fully fledged GNOME environment you have access to all these applications. Even better, if you’re in the middle of your CLI install and want to clarify something with the handboook, just open the web browser. Too easy.
The next time I install Gentoo on a machine, I’ll be sure to give the GUI method an attempt. Thanks to all the devs and maintainers as well as the community who help make Gentoo, well, Gentoo :). Enjoy folks.
UPDATE: Here are some screenshots of the step-by-step GUI installer.
March 1st, 2006 at 8:17 am
Run Anaconda, Run! Those screenshots look really nice indeed.
March 1st, 2006 at 9:09 am
When Vista comes out and XP starts to die, sure enough I’ll be interested in this.
Though that’s probably another 12-18 months away yet.