One of the main attractions of Linux-based netbooks is their ability to boot up almost instantly and provide quick access to Web browsers and other core applications. But what if you could give the same kind of instant-on functionality to Windows notebooks (especially older ones)? That's the idea behind Xandros Presto, which was launched at Demo in early March. Presto installs on top of Microsoft Windows and lets users choose to quickly boot into the lightweight Linux Presto OS instead of Windows. In Presto, users can access Web browsers, instant messaging, Skype and many other applications, while still being able to access the files and folders located in the underlying Windows system. Currently a beta, Presto has some hiccups, but looks promising as a way of providing instant access to the apps we use the most.
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Xandros Presto Beta Brings Linux Instant-Boot Capability to Windows-Based Systems, eWEEK Labs Finds
by Jim Rapoza
Boot Quickly
Xandros Presto, when installed on a Windows system, makes it possible to quickly boot into a lightweight Linux OS that provides access to most core online applications.
Firefox Browser
The included Mozilla Firefox browser in Presto lets users quickly check Web pages and access Web-based e-mail systems.
Instant Messaging
Through the open-source Pidgin application provided with Presto, users can IM across a variety of networks.
Bundled Skype
Online conversations can be carried out in Presto using the bundled Skype VOIP application.
Folder Access
A very nice feature built into Xandros Presto is the ability to access folders and files stored on the underlying Windows system.
Viewing Video
Video and other media files can be easily viewed from within Presto.
Shopping for Applications
The Application Store application in Xandros Presto lets users manage installed applications and look for new applications to install.
Installing Applications
From the online Presto Application Store, users can find and easily install a wide variety of new applications.
Configuring Presto
With the Network Connections tool, users can configure Presto to connect to wired and wireless networks and set up secure VPN connections.
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One of the main attractions of Linux-based netbooks is their ability to boot up almost instantly and provide quick access to Web browsers and other core applications. But what if you could give the same kind of instant-on functionality to Windows notebooks (especially older ones)? That's the idea behind Xandros Presto, which was launched at Demo in early March. Presto installs on top of Microsoft Windows and lets users choose to quickly boot into the lightweight Linux Presto OS instead of Windows. In Presto, users can access Web browsers, instant messaging, Skype and many other applications, while still being able to access the files and folders located in the underlying Windows system. Currently a beta, Presto has some hiccups, but looks promising as a way of providing instant access to the apps we use the most.