Linux Mint 64-bit released

By: JP Smith | Published: June 25, 2009

Categories: Open Source

The new Linux Mint (codename: "Gloria") has been released today for 64-bit PCs.

If you aren't familiar with Linux Mint, think of it as Ubuntu for people who want to get up running even more quickly.  Linux Mint typically provides the user with not only a great working system but, also, the a lot of software needed to run your media out of the box. All this and it's free, too!

If you are not familiar with the Linux world, sometimes a distribution is based on another distribution.  Too often, the differences seem either to be cosmetic (a change in default theme) or a set of translations aimed at users of a particular country. 

Though Linux Mint has its roots in Ubuntu (which, in turn has its roots in Debian), the developers behind this project have taken steps to put their mark on it and make it truly stand out on its own.  For example, it has its collection of tools call Mint Tools and extends beyond those offered in Ubuntu.  For example, you have MintUpdate not only tells you about the updates you have pending but, also how critical they are to install.  MintNanny helps you block objectionable content from being accessed on the web from the local machine and MintUpload is a file upload tool.  You can even get free space to which you can upload files for sharing and now supports secure copy and secure FTP.

Out of the box, Linux Mint has taken pains to make itself an all-around great Linux distribution.  I think I'll be downloading this latest version for my 64-bit PC (a 32-bit version was released a few weeks back). 

You can find out more and/or grab a copy of Linux Mint at linuxmint.com