Run Linux applications on your Windows computer.

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You might be interested in trying out Linux applications, but the idea of creating a dual boot system, using slow Live CDs, or setting up a VM doesn’t appeal to you. Today we take a look at andLinux which allows you to run Linux applications on your Windows computer.
andLinux is actually a full installation of Ubuntu that allows you to run Linux apps directly within the Windows environment. The user interface is the KDE flavor, which should be easier for Windows users to get used to. It’s completely free, easy to install, and is a great way for the Windows user to introduce themselves to Linux.
Note: andLinux is in Beta 2 stage, so keep in mind there may be some bugs yet to be worked out.

Installing andLinux
There are several steps following the installation wizard that are self explanatory, but we will take a look at some of the more important ones. You will need to decide how much memory you want to allocate for andLinux. This will depend on how much memory you have installed on your machine…you can experiment with different amounts and see what works best.

You can select to run it manually from the command line or the easiest option is to have it start automatically with Windows which is selected by default.
You can choose to have it access your Windows drives using Samba.

Select Install this driver software anyway when you get the unsigned driver message.

To complete installation, a reboot is required.

Using andLinux
After a successful installation and reboot, you will now see a small KDE icon in the notification area. This will essentially be your “Linux Start Menuâ€￾ where you can select different included apps you want to run.

There are several KOffice apps included by default and you can start exploring programs like KMail, Kexi, KWord, and more.

After you’ve become acquainted with the different Linux apps offered, you might want to download more using the Synaptic Package Manager. You’ll need to sign in using the password you created during the installation.

You can browse through the insane amount of different applications or search for what you’re looking for. You’re provided with descriptions of the different apps and when you’re ready, mark the package(s) for installation.

When the latest app packages are downloaded and installed. Click on Details to see what is happening “behind the scenesâ€￾.
You can use Konqueror to browse for the newly installed applications and launch them. Konqueror is a staple in a lot of Linux distributions that works as a file manager where you can browse by category and also browse the web.

Here is an example of the Multimedia directory where you can launch different apps.

Here are a few shots of how different Linux apps look running in the Windows 7 environment. Here we take a look at using Konqueror as a web browser in Windows 7.

KSpread is a Linux app for creating new spreadsheets and running in Windows 7.

Synaptic Package Manager allows you to download and install new Linux application packages.

Remember andLinux is still in Beta stage so expect some bugs and some things not to work correctly. If you already have a Windows virtual machine set up, you might want to try it out there before installing it on your real machine. This provides and easy way for a Windows user who’s curious about the Linux world to explore Linux apps without much difficulty. There is currently no support for 64 bit systems, but andLinux will run on Windows 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, and Windows 7 (32-bit Versions Only).

 

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It looks like you're sharing an interesting overview of andLinux, which provides a unique way for Windows users to explore Linux applications without the hassle of dual booting or using a Virtual Machine (VM). Here’s a detailed analysis that might help those considering trying out this app: What is andLinux? andLinux is essentially a distribution of Ubuntu that enables Windows users to run Linux applications natively within the Windows environment. It integrates well, providing a KDE interface that many users find familiar, especially if they're migrating from Windows. Key Features:

• Seamless Integration: andLinux runs side-by-side with Windows applications, allowing users to switch easily between environments.
• User-Friendly Interface: The KDE interface is designed for user-friendliness, making the transition easier for Windows users.
• Samba Access: You can access Windows files directly from your Linux apps, providing a convenient way to work with files across both systems.

Installation Process: Installing andLinux involves a few important steps, particularly regarding system resource allocation. Here are key points to consider: | Step | Description |

Memory Allocation	Choose the amount of system RAM to allocate for andLinux based on your system's total memory. This may require some experimentation.
Startup Options	Select between manual startup from the command line or automatic startup with Windows; the latter is the default setting.
Driver Signatures	When prompted with an unsigned driver message, you must select to install the driver software anyway.
Reboot Requirement	A system reboot is necessary to finalize the installation.

Using andLinux: Once installed, you will find a KDE icon in the notification area, serving as your gateway to various Linux applications. Some highlights of the user experience include:

• Pre-installed Applications: Default applications include KOffice suite components like KMail and KWord.
• App Installation: Use the Synaptic Package Manager to download and install additional applications. You'll need the password that you set up during installation.
• File Management with Konqueror: This application serves as your file manager and web browser in the Linux environment, allowing you to manage files and browse the web seamlessly.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Beta Stage: Since andLinux is still in its Beta 2 phase, users should be prepared for potential bugs and incomplete features.
• Limited System Support: It's important to note that andLinux is not compatible with 64-bit systems and is limited to 32-bit versions of Windows 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, and Windows 7.

Conclusion: andLinux is an exciting option for Windows users who want to dip their toes into the world of Linux without the complexity of traditional methods. However, due to its beta status, users should consider testing it in a virtual machine environment if they're concerned about system stability. This allows users to explore the vast range of applications available in Linux while still having the safety net of their existing Windows setup. Users should definitely keep an eye on updates and official releases, as future developments may expand compatibility and features! For further exploration, feel free to check out the installed applications and share your experiences here!