I just tried out Edubuntu after reading that it works "out of the box" as a Linux Terminal Server. And with the documented caveats, it did.

The overall experience was rather impressive. To set up the terminal server, I simply went through the installation wizard and entered some basic networking details.

I was then immediately able to turn a second computer into a Edubuntu thin client by simply selecting a "boot from network" option when the second computer started up.

While initially impressive, I saw there was still more work to do for some aspects to work seamlessly. For example, some extra work is required if you want to sound, local devices or local printing to work on the client.

Also, I feel that Mandriva still a set of system administration utilities superior to the suite of Gnome system tools used by Edubuntu.

Edubuntu looks like a strong offering for the educational market. Its value far exceeds the "free" price tag. From all appearances Edubuntuo going to continue to get better.

I introduced Kurt Ritchie to Edubuntu, and he has has now happily installed it on his home desktop. Kurt likes the feel of it, and his kids like some of the educational programs that are installed by default.

For my interest in setting up a terminal server, I'm going to pursue installing LTSP on Mandriva instead.