TechTip: Linux Desktop Environment for iSeries and AS/400

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Q: Is there a Linux desktop configuration that's well-suited for the iSeries (AS/400)? I know this is a vague question, but I want to dump Microsoft Windows entirely. Still, I need good client connectivity.

A: The two most prevalent desktop environments for Linux are GNU Object Model Environment (GNOME), at www.gnome.org, and K Desktop Environment (KDE), at www.kde.org. Of the two, GNOME is truly open-source, whereas KDE is only partially open-source though still free. KDE is a good option for those who want a desktop with a similar look and feel to Windows.

As for connectivity, Linux has the latest and greatest that is UNIX--and UNIX built the Internet. For an emulator, you can pick from several open-source ones plus a number of commercial emulator products. I'm currently using an open-source version that I found by searching the Linux open-source product search site, www.freshmeat.net.

--Ted Holt
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TED HOLT

Ted Holt is IT manager of Manufacturing Systems Development for Day-Brite Capri Omega, a manufacturer of lighting fixtures in Tupelo, Mississippi. He has worked in the information processing industry since 1981 and is the author or co-author of seven books. 


MC Press books written by Ted Holt available now on the MC Press Bookstore.

Complete CL: Fifth Edition Complete CL: Fifth Edition
Become a CL guru and fully leverage the abilities of your system.
List Price $79.95

Now On Sale

Complete CL: Sixth Edition Complete CL: Sixth Edition
Now fully updated! Get the master guide to Control Language programming.
List Price $79.95

Now On Sale

IBM i5/iSeries Primer IBM i5/iSeries Primer
Check out the ultimate resource and “must-have” guide for every professional working with the i5/iSeries.
List Price $99.95

Now On Sale

Qshell for iSeries Qshell for iSeries
Check out this Unix-style shell and utilities command interface for OS/400.
List Price $79.95

Now On Sale

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