How Linux distributions are fighting COVID-19
Project Pandemic

© Lead Image © Iksana Mironova, 123RF.com
Several leading Linux distributions are taking steps to address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Distributions – aka "distros" – shape our experiences of Linux. All Linux distros use the Linux kernel, but the package managers, applications, and other components can vary dramatically. Currently, DistroWatch lists 273 distros, many designed for specialized purposes, such as video editing or retrogaming, and switching from one to another often feels like changing operating systems.
In the coming months, this column will explore the diversity of Linux distributions. At times, I will cover the plans for upcoming general releases. At other times, I may present a roundup of some of the projects that contributors to Linux distributions develop on their own. The distros on this month's DVD will always be featured – and other distros will be mentioned only as space and topics allow.
As I write this article, one topic that seems to be in the media is the spread of COVID-19. The ongoing pandemic has had a major impact on companies like Apple and Google, partly because of their business model and partly because most of their manufacturing is in China, which was hit early and hard. Many major corporations have met with the World Health Organization to discuss how to handle the accompanying infodemic of misleading news about COVID-19 [1]. Some tech companies have also announced plans to help combat the pandemic. Apple, for instance, is developing face shields, and auto companies like GM and Tesla [2] have plans for using automotive parts to produce ventilators for victims of the virus with respiratory problems.
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Direct Download
Read full article as PDF:
Price $2.95
News
-
Mageia 8 is Now Available with Linux 5.10 LTS
The latest release of Mageia includes improved graphics support for both AMD and NVIDIA GPUs.
-
GNOME 40 Beta has been Released
Anyone looking to test the beta for the upcoming GNOME 40 release can now do so.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 4.2 has Arrived
The latest stable version of OpenMandriva has been released and offers the newest KDE desktop and ARM support.
-
Thunderbird 78 is being ported to Ubuntu 20.04
The Ubuntu developers have made the decision to port the latest release of Thunderbird to the LTS version of the platform.
-
Elementary OS is Bringing Multi-Touch Gestures to the OS
User-friendly Linux distribution, elementary OS, is working to make using the fan-favorite platform even better for laptops.
-
Decade-Old Sudo Flaw Discovered
A vulnerability has been discovered in the Linux sudo command that’s been hiding in plain sight.
-
Another New Linux Laptop has Arrived
Slimbook has released a monster of a Linux gaming laptop.
-
Mozilla VPN Now Available for Linux
The promised subscription-based VPN service from Mozilla is now available for the Linux platform.
-
Wayland and New App Menu Coming to KDE
The 2021 roadmap for the KDE desktop environment includes some exciting features and improvements.
-
Deepin 20.1 has Arrived
Debian-based Deepin 20.1 has been released with some interesting new features.