More apps, platforms, and languages
Known for its prolific offerings, you might think Debian would eventually run out of GNU software to add to its distributions. But public support for the Debian Social Contract hasn't waned; approximately 1,200 new packages have been contributed to this release. No matter what software you need on a new system, there's probably an application or utility somewhere in the distribution that will do the job.

Debian 2.2 also widens its sphere of influence by adding the PowerPC and ARM processor architectures to its roster of supported platforms, so Debian will now run on iMacs and Netwinders. There are even several different flavors of installation kernels, each tailored to accommodate various hardware configurations. You also have several installation alternatives using a variety of media, your local network, or the Internet.

Version 2.2 is a more international affair than earlier releases, with beefed-up support for Japanese and other non-Latin-based languages and improved translations for some European languages. Debian 2.2 also provides all the tools necessary to use this distribution to create your own version.

Less documentation and help
Debian has never been the distribution for the faint of heart or for those testing the Linux waters for the first time. This release does little to alter that reputation; even the installation could pose a problem for those new to Debian, because there's no manual. During our installation and testing, we encountered several instances where documentation or some onscreen explanations would have been helpful.

If you need the security of a manual, you should probably consider another distribution. But if you remain undaunted, plan on spending some time at Debian's Web site to search out and read as much as you can about this distribution. A preinstallation visit is also a good idea so that you can download and print the installation instructions.

Package management
The nearly 4,000 programs included on Debian's three CDs may seem overwhelming, but the Dselect interface makes installing your selections from the bevy of apps a breeze. You can even select groups of programs to install either during the OS installation or later.

If any of the programs you choose to install require other software or will create a conflict with another app, Debian will let you know. In many cases, you can install and configure software or update an existing application without having to close the application. Other package managers--such as Red Hat's RPM--don't offer the versatility that Dselect brings to the table.

The GNU advantage
You might expect that a thorough distribution such as Debian would include documentation to match. Unfortunately that's not the case. Manual writing is apparently less appealing to GNU contributors than is programming. And while you won't get the kind of technical support you do with other distributions, legions of Debian users are willing to help online via newsgroups and discussion forums. Also, thanks to the GNU free software ethos, you'll likely never be confused by licensing issues; Debian specifies which packages are not released under the General Public License (GPL) by putting them in the Contrib and Non-free directories on the CD.

Debian is a solid distribution with scores of programs, but its lack of documentation and other such amenities make it less attractive to newer users. And corporate users would probably welcome a more formal support program.

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