Slackware

_http://www.slackware.com/

You've certainly heard of Linux, the so-called "alternative to Microsoft Windows" In fact this operating system has been in operation since 1991, and unlike Windows this operating system is FREE! Linux is an open source system, which means it is available for anyone to tinker with and contribute to. The combined efforts of thousands of programmers worldwide have turned Linux into an efficient operating system that kicks the tail of Microsoft in nearly every way. And best of all, Linux Slackware is fully approved by J.R. "Bob" Dobbs! As the developer of Slackware, Patrick Volkerding, states: "Since its first release in April of 1993, the Slackware Linux Project has aimed at producing the most 'UNIX-like' Linux distribution out there. Slackware complies with the published Linux standards, such as the Linux File System Standard."

UPDATE: Patrick "The Man" Volkerding suffered from a serious medical condition in 2004, and he was treated at the Mayo Clinic. He's making a good recovery, and continued development of Slackware is proceeding apace. This is good news! Here's hoping Pat attends X-Day this year once again!

See also: Slackware Wiki