PCLinuxOS is an independent Linux distribution with a rich history behind it, whose roots can be traced back 20 years to the once legendary Mandrake Linux.
Today, PCLinuxOS is recognized as an entirely desktop-centric OS, focused on creating a user-friendly, rolling-release distribution with a strong emphasis on stability, simplicity, and a user-friendly desktop experience.
Recently released PCLinuxOS 2023.07 is here, so let’s dive in and see what’s changed.
What’s New in PCLinuxOS 2023.07
The main focus of this updated release is put on the desktop environments. It provides users with the most up-to-date versions of three (of the four – PCLinuxOS does not offer a GNOME edition) leading desktop environments, KDE Plasma 5.27.6, MATE 1.26.1, and Xfce 4.18.4.
Under the hood, the distro is powered by the latest Linux kernel, 6.4.7, accompanied by glibc 2.36, GCC 12.3.0, and Mesa 23.1.4. The Nvidia drivers have been put in separate sections in the software repository.
In addition, PCLinuxOS 2023.07 also focuses on wireless connectivity, and in this regard, all wireless drivers are enabled in the kernel with updated firmware. Moreover, a third-party repository is available for wireless drivers not included in the Linux kernel.
On the application side, Chromium received an update to v114 and Firefox to v115. On top of that, there is an impressive additional 26 web browsers available for installation in the distro’s software repository. The latest LibreOffice, 7.5.5, is now the default office suite.
Security-wise, UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall), designed to simplify configuring and managing a firewall on a Linux system, replaces the previously used Shorewall and is enabled by default.
Finally, PCLinuxOS 2023.07 has updated the APT, RPM, and Synaptic package manager. But wait a second. How come APT and RPM both exist? Aren’t these completely separate packet managers?
The distro relies on both because PCLinuxOS bets on APT-RPM, a version of the Advanced Packaging Tool modified to work with the RPM Package Manager. Isn’t that great, huh?
You can refer to the release announcement here, or for more detailed information here, about all changes in PCLinuxOS 2023.07. Links to the installation ISO images are on the project’s download page.
Bottom Line
While not as popular as other leading desktop distributions, this release of PCLinuxOS left us with an enjoyable feeling. In addition, everything works lightning-fast.
On top of that, the distribution is not cluttered with software, with only the most essential apps preinstalled, and from there on, the user is free to build according to their needs and preferences.
In conclusion, despite its origins, PCLinuxOS has developed its own identity, and these days it continues to be maintained by its highly dedicated development team, offering a user-friendly and efficient Linux experience for desktop users.
So, would we recommend it? Yes, it is worth giving it a chance.
Beware! The disk setup routine for PCLinuxOS is a little bit different in October 2023 than it was in in August 2023. You can still accomplish all that needs to be accomplished during pre-installation preparation using a “Live session” of PCLinuxOS. You do prepare for the installation using a “Live session” don’t you? Use gparted (during a “Live session”) to prepare your disks/partitions BEFORE you start the installation routine. If you’re using a UEFI machine that has “secure boot” turned on in the UEFI, turn it off. Also, use separate “drives” for Windows and PCLinuxOS if you must keep Windows. I don’t mean separate partitions on the same device, I mean separate devices. Also, you do keep a separate /home partition, don’t you? It simplifies life so much.
It was my first Linux i had tried in 2008. And if i want a Linux, i choose this today again. Because it is quick and has Nvidia drivers. But in the new installer i dont find the Nvidia drivers. That is too bad. I also miss the 32-bit version for my old Labtop.
I used it many yes ago and liked it, but needed M$ for my work. Now that my PC is getting old I installed it after trying another well known Linux which I could not get to grips with. PCLOS is the nearest to M$ platform from the the point of usability. I can’t understand why RetiredIT person is not using a USB stick to install it.
I installed TeamViewer today and used it successfully to migrate my data files from M$ computer to my Linux computer.
I’ll try FreeCAD soon to compare it with FastCAD.
I have used PCLos for about 20?? Years. I loaded it after Tex left Mandriva & started PCLinuxOS.
I have stuck by PCLos because everything just works! They publish a monthly magazine too, & the forum is really helpful.
To RetiredIT, just use something like Bleachbit to load an image to a USB stick. You can also try PCLos before you install it. There is also a helpful
Wiki page to assist if necessary, or just ask for help on the Forum.
Another reason I love PCLos is that if a reasonable request is put up for a new package it will be considered. They just released the FreeCAD 0.21.0
package after I requested it, & some other users wanted it too. (FreeCAD 0.21.0 was only released a few days ago:
another great OpenSource package)
btw, my wife knows nothing about computers. She moved from a M$ computer at work to a PCLos machine at home & really has no problems.
ps: I, too am retired. At least I wish I had time to really enjoy retirement: just seem to always be busy!
pps: loving the Womens Soccer cup: the US/Sweden game was a cliffhanger! (as an Aussie, I support Matildas of course)
I used PC Linux a few years ago and it’s was great. At the time it’s KDE was long in the tooth so I eventually distrohooped because I was new to Linux.
Now that young brought it to mind I think I’ll spin it up in a VM.
As long as PCLinuxOS will not install from a DVD on my Lenovo Thinkpad T490 I will not be using it. Sad but true.