From LQWiki

VectorLinux is a small, fast, Linux operating system for the x86 processors based on one of the original Linux distributions, Slackware. Slackware is somehow considered the true 'Unix' of Linux distributions and is used by major corporations, universities and home users alike. Its popularity stems from the fact that it is reported as a robust, versatile and almost unbreakable system. The side-effect of such versatility is that Slackware, while being easy (and fun) to tweak and configure for the Linux savant, is quite hard to install and configure for a Linux newbie. VectorLinux includes automatic hardware configuration, unique administration tools and easy package management via the gslapt/slapt-get system.

VectorLinux can be seen as an attempt to create a small but complete, usable and overall very fast Slackware system without creating too much pain to the end user. The install asks only a few questions and automatically sets up a nice IceWM-based desktop with an icon set. The default file manager is the fast but friendly and tremendously versatile Xfe. Other applications included are the Firefox web browser, Abiword MS-Word compatible word processor, and Gaim multiprotocol chat. Slackware packages can be easily installed with gslapt or slapt-get to improve the system.

VectorLinux SOHO is perhaps more interesting for an up to date computer in that it includes a full KDE desktop and applications suitable for power users. The basic VectorLinux, with its simplicity of install and clever choice of packages, is almost surely the distribution of choice to recycle even very old machines as simple but modern and functional desktops. A full VectorLinux install fits in less than 700 MBytes and runs well on a 180-MHz PentiumPro with 64 Mb ram. It allows such a machine to act as a fully working word-processing, web browsing, chatting and even music listening desktop, when such old boxes are too often sacrificed as firewalls and servers with other distributions.

External links

• VectorLinux homepage (www.vectorlinux.com)
• VectorLinux 5.1 Delux review (www.madpenguin.org)