In somewhat of surprise move, Wal-Mart, the United States largest retailer, has started selling PC's pre-loaded with a Linux distribution. The PC's, similar to the ones that Wal-Mart made news with earlier this year by selling them without any operating system, range from $300-$600.
The pre-loaded LindowsOS Linux distribution seems like a good choice for Linux's entry into the retail pre-loading market, considering its built-in capacity to run many Windows-based software programs. Lindows is based on a modified version of Xandros Debian GNU/Linux, KDE 2.2.2, WINE, and various other components.
The new computers retail for approximately $100 less then similarly equipped PC's pre-loaded with Windows, also available through Wal-Mart's web site. This substantial difference in price, nearly 25% off the price of lowest end model, seems sure to encourage consumers and businesses alike to consider Linux on their next desktop PC.
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