OzOS is a free GNU/Linux distribution built on existing open source code from:

• a minimal version of Xubuntu (8.04) stripped of most of its applications and Desktop Environment;
• a minimal set of GTK libraries to support the default application set;
• the most stable core elements of the development branch (cvs) of the Enlightenment desktop manager project; and
• Scripts and utilities designed to maintain and extend the functionality of the Enlightenment desktop.

OzOS is available as a Live CD in either 32bit or 64bit configurations and as a desktop meta-package (.deb file) that can be installed onto (almost) any existing up-to-date Debian-based system.

Note: The OzOS desktop meta-package is NOT recommended for systems that already have Enlightenment installed from another source.

By default, all the open-source Ubuntu repositories are enabled along with OzOS's separately maintained repositories for additional and more up-to-date functions.

The LiveCD versions of OzOS incorporate a graphical installer (ubiquity) as well as the standard Debian/Ubuntu package management applications – apt, Add/Remove and the Synaptic Package Manager.

The official versions of OzOS “Monte Carlo” have only the Enlightenment desktop manager (e17) and a limited set of generally lightweight application software – including:

• Abiword word processor,
• Firefox web browser.
• Thunderbird email client
• Thunar file manager.
• Gajim instant messaging.
• Scite text editor
• Wicd wireless network manager.
• Totem movie player.
• Gpicview image viewer.
• the GIMP image manipulation program.
• Xscreensaver
• build-essential (GNU compiler tools and libs)

OzOS is a distribution aimed at desktop PC users who want control over their installation through an elegant, lightweight but user-friendly base installation. The inclusion of the graphical installer means that users will require a minimum of 384Mb of RAM to use the LiveCD as an installer (512Mb is recommended). Users with less memory can still install the OzOS desktop meta-package if they first install a minimal Debian or Ubuntu system (eg. via the Xubuntu “alternative” iso).

While OzOS is suitable for low-memory machines and older processors, it is also highly suitable for faster and more up-to-date machines. The 64bit version of OzOS takes full advantage of modern multi-core processors and the Enlightenment desktop is ideal for users who want to focus on their applications rather than the “bells and whistles” of their OS or desktop manager. Enlightenment offers users a wide range of themes and desktop effects, but is also easily configured to stay “out of the way” and provide only very basic functionality.

OzOS offers only a limited range of “native” Enlightenment applications by default. The core e17 utilities are included and others are available directly from the cvs. Users who are inclined to explore the wider range of available applications (music players, image programs etc) in the Enlightenment development branch can enable these by making a few minimal modifications to the "morlenius" e17_update script which is included in OzOS.

While OzOS “Monte Carlo” is offered as a stand-alone distribution, it is part of a wider “ecosystem” of related open source developments that users are invited to explore and join.

OzOS is one of a number of projects fostered and sponsored by the not-for-profit CafeLinux.org, which also maintains and develops:

• The CafeLinux Forums – incorporating the OzOS support and developer forums;
• apt:foo – a “companion” project to OzOS based on providing users with easy access to additional applications and utilities for their systems;
• Distropedia – a collaborative writing project on open source projects;
• OptickleArt – an online gallery of members' graphic and artistic work, including screenshots and background images related to OzOS.

CafeLinux.org also provides support and web-hosting for a range of member (and non-member) projects relating to open source.

OzOS is also just one expression of the expanding, wonderful (and admittedly sometimes chaotic) universe of GNU/Linux. It owes the bulk of its component code to the Linux kernel, the GNU project, Debian, Ubuntu and Enlightenment. Countless developers, supporters and users have contributed to all these projects and we owe them a great debt.

“On the shoulders of giants.......”

Important Links

CafeLinux.org
CafeLinux Homepage
The CafeLinux Forums
apt:foo
Distropedia
OptickleArt

Debian
Ubuntu
GNU
Kernel.org
Enlightenment