A Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) 201303

The Debian Edition 201303 is one more in a long line of Linux Mint distributions being released this year. Like all previous Linux Mint distributions, this one also comes with a range of tools you can use to install Mint. From menus to installer to updater, the tools are there. The only difference is that this distribution has been built on Debian rather than Ubuntu unlike the previous releases. There are also a number of preloaded and pre configured packages in the LMDE.

There is nothing new or novel offered by this Linux Mint distribution. The only reason which comes to mind why a person might opt to use it is because it doesn’t run on Ubuntu. Even though Ubuntu remains the most popular Linux platform, there are users who don’t want to run their computers on it. So, they now have the option to use Debian if they are looking to run Linux Mint. Moreover, the LMDE is a basic distribution which isn’t that difficult to master or use for regular Linux users.

However, one shouldn’t forget that there have rapid developments when it comes to Linux distributions. Nearly every version of the OS is constantly being upgraded. That is why you might feel as though the LMDE is out of touch with the recently released distributions. The most obvious thing to note is the kernel on which it is built. The LMDE uses the Linux kernel 3.2.0 when 3.7.x and 3.8.x are the ones being used for the recent distributions that have been released.

This may cause compatibility issues and make it a little difficult for you to install the distribution. First of all, you need to find out whether your computer can run LMDE. Yet, this is all a matter of routine for a regular Debian user. This version of Linux is notorious for being the most difficult to use in terms of installing and checking compatibility. So, for Debian users, it is business as usual. It is the non-Debian users who will consider this a major hindrance.

There is nothing special about the Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE). It is highly unlikely that the distribution is going to attract much interest from anyone other than Linux devotees and ardent Debian users. Even the most optimistic of developers wouldn’t be expecting this distribution to convince users to alter their preferences and think about trying something new for a change.

[Image via fwallpapers]