RE: [Sheflug] Debian

["Mark Broadbent" <xxxxx [at] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Richard,

> <remove header>

> Hello all, seems a bit quiet on the list at the moment - so heres
> a question
> for you. I've just installed debian (2.2r4) and want to know what
> aspects of
> debian (over any other ditro) that any self respecting debian user should
> know.

Debian is more 'hands on' than most other distros, be prepared to get your
hands dirty on the command line.  The key word here is probably flexibility
rather than ease of use (no big button to saying 'Configure my System now'!)
it's mostly is do-it-yourself apart from some really useful configure
scripts when you install packages that gets the really tricky stuff done for
you and gets you working.

> For instance, I seem to have an old version of GIMP, but what
> would be the
> best way of gettting a new version?

The best thing to do is upgrade to sid which is currently in the unstable
distribution line (though I believe it's due for release quite soon so it
should be pretty much stable).  This should have a later version of gimp in
there.

You could however download the source for the later version and
compile/install that but be aware that some of the libraries may not be of
the versions required, probably best to stick to using apt/dselect to ensure
the distribution stays easily upgradeable - that's what I tend to do bar a
few exceptions (samba v2.2 being one).

If you do install software without package management stick them in
/usr/local or /opt so they are left alone when you upgrade the distribution

> <remove footer>

HTH
Mark

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