Glossary: Glossary

Distribution

Linux distributions are developed based on the Linux kernel, adding enhancements, packaged with software and tools for installation and configuration.

Edubuntu

Edubuntu is a variation of the Ubuntu Linux Distribution made especially for use in schools. It features many educational applications installed by default, a look and feel targeted at young people, and "thin client" integration.

KDE

Acronym for the "K Desktop Environment". Unlike Windows and Macintosh, Linux gives you a wide range of choices of your desktop looks and works. KDE is the most popular. You usually don't have to worry about this choice if you don't care about it.

Linux

Linux is a free, open source alternative that provides an alternative to Windows and Mac OS X. Linux is already being used in home, businesses and schools around Indiana and the world.

LiveCD

A LiveCD is an operating system (usually containing other software as well) stored on a bootable CD-ROM that can be executed from it, without installation on a hard drive. The system returns to its previous OS when the LiveCD is ejected and the computer is rebooted. It does this by placing the files which typically would be stored on a hard drive, onto a ram disk. This however does cut down on the RAM available to applications, reducing performance somewhat.

Mandriva

Mandriva is an easy to use and adminster desktop Linux distribution. It is being used by several people locally. More information is available at Mandriva.com.

Open Source

In general, open source refers to any program whose source code is made available for use or modification as users or other developers see fit. (Historically, the makers of proprietary software have generally not made source code available.) Open source software is usually developed as a public collaboration and made freely available.

Operating System

An operating system (sometimes abbreviated as "OS") is the program that, after being initially loaded into the computer by a boot program, manages all the other programs in a computer. The other programs are called applications or application programs. Windows XP, Mac OS X and Linux are examples of operating systems. The Linux operating system runs on the same hardware that Windows and Mac OS X do.

PIM

PIM stands for "Personal Information Management" and refers to software that keeps track of personal data, especially contacts, appointments and tasks.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is a Linux distribution that is used around the world and locally as well. Visit the Ubuntu homepage for further information.

kernel

The kernel is the core of an operating system.

root

"root" is the term used for the Administrator account on Linux. You may sometimes be asked for the "root password" when making important changes to the system.

terminal server

Terminal servers are special purpose computers which provide processing power for many "thin client" computers which may connect to them. In this arrangement, several old or slow computers can be used as thin clients with Linux to create a cost-effective and easy to manange lab or small computer network.

thin client

A network computer without a hard disk drive, which is designed to be especially small so that the bulk of the data processing occurs on a server. An old computer that might otherwise be worthless can sometimes be used as a capable "thin client" with Linux.