Kumander Linux, a distribution that has steadily gained traction over the years, is on the verge of launching its much-anticipated version 3.0. This release carries a nostalgic charm, appealing to users who appreciate a blend of familiarity and functionality. At its core, Kumander Linux is built on Debian 13.6 and features the Xfce 4.20 desktop environment. These choices may seem unremarkable at first glance, yet they represent a reliable foundation, merging a lightweight desktop experience with one of the most trusted Linux distributions available.
Visual Appeal and User Experience
What sets Kumander Linux apart is its aesthetic. The distribution makes a concerted effort to mimic the look and feel of Windows 7, without resorting to the overt appropriation of commercial assets seen in other projects like Wubuntu. Instead, it strikes a balance by utilizing a combination of free and open-source software (FOSS) alongside some freeware components. For productivity, it includes LibreOffice 25.2, which is configured to resemble the Microsoft Office ribbon interface, and GIMP 3.0.4 for image editing. Additionally, users will find familiar tools such as Google Chrome, PuTTY, Audacity, and VLC, enhancing the overall user experience.
The customizations extend beyond mere aesthetics. Notably, the default Task Manager has been replaced with a new utility called System Manager, developed by Roy Hoejgaard, the distro’s creator. Furthermore, an intuitive Software Center has been integrated, simplifying the process of managing applications. While the inclusion of non-FOSS tools like Chrome necessitates additional repositories, the preinstallation of Flatpak and WINE allows for a broader range of software options, albeit without any preloaded applications.
One clever feature is the Start menu, which lists popular applications such as Ardour and Blender, along with the Steam client, labeled as “Installer.” These entries serve as convenient links for downloading and installing the respective applications, streamlining the user experience.
System Requirements and Performance
Kumander Linux is not the lightest distribution on the market, with a download size of 4.25 GB and a full installation requiring 11 GB of disk space. However, this approach is more efficient than some alternatives, such as Zorin OS Pro, which comes preloaded with numerous applications. The Xfce environment ensures that Kumander Linux remains relatively lightweight, consuming approximately 725 MB of RAM when idle.
Some users may find that the customizations have been taken a step too far. For instance, upon opening a terminal window, the default shell prompt displays C:/home/lproven>. While this may provide a sense of comfort for those transitioning from Windows, it could also be seen as misleading, given that the Linux file system does not utilize drive letters.
A Nod to History
The name “Kumander” pays homage to Commodore computers, cleverly spelled in a Filipino manner. This unique origin story marks Kumander Linux as a notable entry in the world of Linux distributions, being one of the first to emerge from the Philippines. The modifications made to Xfce are subtle yet effective; rather than employing a dock-like plugin for a Windows 7-style taskbar, Kumander features its own Quicklaunch plugin. Documentation is readily available, providing users with links to the repositories of all custom components, a refreshing transparency that is often lacking in other customized distributions.
As the landscape of operating systems evolves, many users find themselves disenchanted with modern interfaces, particularly those of Windows 11. For those who long for the visual appeal of earlier Windows versions while seeking the stability of Debian and the simplicity of Xfce, Kumander Linux 3 presents a compelling option. Currently in its Release Candidate 2 phase, it appears poised for a successful launch, ready to cater to a niche audience that values both nostalgia and reliability.
