CertiGuide to A+ (A+ 4 Real)  9  Chapter 6: The Graphical Interface of the LINUX OS

History of the X Windows System 1 The KDE Desktop

Although there are quite a number of user interfaces available for Linux this discussion will focus at the on the two major desktop interfaces, Gnome and KDE (from Kool Desktop Environment). KDE has become the slightly more popular interface, however, both interfaces provide equal flexibility, simplicity, and support applications designed for either desktop interface which fulfills the freedom of choice principle for Linux users. Between Gnome and KDE the user has a choice of two excellent desktop interfaces, either of which is extremely flexible and can be configured to fit a wide range of tastes.

Those that are learning Linux for the first time, but are familiar with the Windows interface, will find that the GUI interfaces for Linux function in a similar manner to that which they are accustomed. In fact, a recent study comparing experienced computer users (Windows users), learning Windows XP verses a similar group learning Linux, using these desktops for the first time, found that those users almost equally liked the Linux system as those that liked the XP system. Those learning the Linux interface took a similar amount of time to learn it as those that were learning the XP interface. The new Linux users were able quickly to learn how to launch applications, navigate to find files, and browse the Web and do productive work.

History of the X Windows System 1 The KDE Desktop