Yet another distribution of Linux is making waves. This one promises ease of use and simplified installation—in fact it runs straight off a CD-ROM. Knoppix is a 'Debian' strain of Linux with Kernel 2.4.x . The Knoppix website (www.knoppix.org) describes it as: A bootable CD with a collection of GNU/Linux software, automatic hardware detection, and support for many graphics cards, sound cards, SCSI and USB devices and other peripherals.

Because of these characteristics Knoppix can be used as a Linux demo, educational CD, rescue system—or adapted and used as a platform for commercial software product demos.

It is not necessary to install anything on the hard disk. Due to on-the-fly decompression, the CD can have up to 2 GB
of executable software installed on it.

Some regard Knoppix as a plug and play system. All you need to do is slip in the Knoppix CD, change the boot sequence in the BIOS (to boot from CD) and then restart the PC. The Knoppix system comes up in about two minutes, configures itself, sets up all programs and is ready to use. If that's difficult to believe download it from the Knoppix website, burn a CD and try it yourself.

- Harsh Kumar, Advisor-IT, HPCL