Versions of Linux
Several software companies, including Corel and RedHat Software, offer their own versions of Linux. Corel Linux ships with a graphical user interface (GUI) called KDE. RedHat's version includes GNOME. Both KDE and GNOME, which look remarkably like Windows, let users store files on the desktop, launch applications and utilities from pop-up menus, and track running applications with taskbar icons. Both of these versions include Netscape Communicator; a Photoshop-strength image editing application; spreadsheet, word processing, and database programs; a calendar; contact programs; utilities; and lots of games.
Corel designed its Linux program for mass-market desktop users, giving it plug-and-play capabilities, a user interface similar to Windows, and an all-in-one browser, Corel Explorer, which browses local drives, local networks, and the Internet. It also features a "pseudo-start button," which works like the start button in Windows. Users can have as many as eight "virtual desktops" running at the same time, each with a different set of applications open. Corel Linux also offers a four-step installation process--simple compared with other sources of Linux that typically take 40 steps. In addition, Corel Linux partitions a hard drive automatically, including an option to install Linux into the DOS/Windows partition. This last feature lets users create a Linux subdirectory within Windows so they can try the Linux operating system before replacing Windows--a necessary precaution.