Software Update: SimplyMepis 3.3

SimplyMepis is a so-called live CD with the Linux distribution Debian. Allows the computer to boot without the presence of a hard drive and still provide a full desktop environment. Applications included by default include KDE 3.3.2, OpenOffice 1.1.3, FireFox 1.0, GIMP, Skype, and Gaim. The developer Mepis LLC has released version 3.3 and has therefore immediately switched to a different version numbering. The release notes look like this:

MEPIS has started shipping the SimplyMEPIS 3.3 bootable CD. SimplyMEPIS offers a Linux that is easy to install and use. It should appeal to the beginner and expert alike.

For the beginner, SimplyMEPIS is a complete desktop Linux that bundles and preconfigures the KDE 3.3.2 desktop, OpenOffice 1.1.3 (with WordPerfect document support), Firefox 1.0, Mplayer plugin, Gaim, Xchat, Konqueror, Kmail, Pan, Skype, GIMP, Digikam, Acrobat Reader, Real Player, Xine, XMMS, Kino, GTKPod (with automatic support for both Mac and PC iPods), Scribus, Checkbook Tracker, KPilot, QTParted, Synaptic, Kpackage, and many other applications to give the desktop user everything needed to quickly become productive in the SimplyMEPIS desktop Linux environment.

For the experienced user, SimplyMEPIS provides the renowned apt package system from the Debian Project, so with Synaptic or Kpackage one can easily add new software and update existing software with just a few clicks. To create a customized system, over 10,000 packages can be downloaded for free from the Debian package pool and the MEPIS package pool.

By popular demand, the synaptic package manager is now recommended for new users. Also new in 3.3, SimplyMEPIS has introduced a GUI based boot screen and an improved installer that supports more hard drive configurations. And it gives the user the choice of a 2.4.29 kernel and/or a 2.6.10. Also the nvidia or the fglrx/ati display driver can be chosen during installation to replace the default display driver.

The SimplyMEPIS bootable CD allows potential users to verify hardware compatibility, test drive applications, and determine the value of SimplyMEPIS before making a commitment to install it on their hard drive. After installation, the CD can be used as a rescue and repair disk for MEPIS and also for computers still running Windows.

MEPIS is committed to providing a reliable, polished, and complete version of desktop Linux that enables new users to throw off the yoke of Windows once and for all. In addition MEPIS offers developers the opportunity to focus on creating cool new stuff instead of continuously tinkering with the underlying system.[break]The following two downloads are ready:
SimplyMepis 3.3 ISO (686MB)
SimplyMepis 3.3 MD5SUM