Albatross-X

Albatross-X is an open source distribution of Linux based on the highly acclaimed Ubuntu operating system and built around the lightweight Xfce desktop environment. It provides users with a wide range of customizations and attractive applications.

Availability and boot options

The distro is available for download as a two Live DVD ISO images, one for each of the supported hardware platforms, 32-bit (i386) and 64-bit (amd64). It comes with a custom boot prompt that allows users to start the live environment with default settings or use the safe graphics mode.

In addition, it is possible to run a memory diagnostic test, boot an existing operating system installed on the first hard disk drive, or install the distribution without testing it (not recommended).

Traditional desktop environment, interesting selection of applications

As mentioned, Xfce is in charge of the graphical session inside the Albatross-X Linux distribution, providing users with a traditional desktop environment comprised of a top panel for accessing the main menu and launching applications, and a dock (applications launcher) located on the bottom edge of the screen.

Default applications include the GIMP image editor, Stellarium planetarium software, Mozilla Firefox web browser, gThumb image viewer, XChat IRC client, Mozilla Thunderbird email and news client, Pidgin multi-protocol instant messenger, qBittorrent torrent downloader, DVD Styler DVD-Video authoring software, Exaile audio player, Brasero and Xfburn CD/DVD burning tools, and VLC Media Player.

The Synaptic Package Manager and Ubuntu Software Center applications are also included, allowing users to easily and quickly find and install new applications, as well as to update or remove existing ones.

Bottom line

Summing up, Albatross-X is a decent and old-school Linux distribution that is stable, reliable and fully customizable. It includes a traditional desktop environment powered by Xfce and all the applications that you will need on a daily basis.