This Linux distro has one of many smartest security measures I’ve seen (and I’ve examined dozens)

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• iDeal OS is a user-friendly, Debian-based distribution.
• It features a useful instrument for additional safety.
• iDeal OS is free to obtain and set up.

Sometimes, I run throughout a Linux distribution that gives one thing distinctive, and it by no means fails to remind me how particular Linux is. It would not occur on daily basis, however when it does, I need to throw my fingers within the air and cry out a rousing, “Huzzah!”

Such was the case once I bumped into iDeal OS. 

iDeal OS relies on MX Linux (which relies on Debian Trixie), and there are two completely different variations:

• Emerald Version – this version offers you the entire functions you want, together with a pleasant desktop expertise.
• Diamond Version – this version turns your pc into an entire and highly effective digital workstation. You will get all kinds of instruments that may improve the workflow for entrepreneurs, freelancers, programmers, net designers, content material creators, artists, and extra.

Each variations ship with KDE Plasma 6.x, and since it is a rolling launch, you may belief your functions are all the time updated.

Additionally: 7 issues each Linux newbie ought to know earlier than downloading their first distro

However what’s it that makes iDeal OS particular? Apart from the truth that the desktop consists of a number of PDFs with data on activating the Diamond version, details about the Emerald version, an MX Person Guide, and entry to fast system data, there’s one app specifically that provides one more layer of safety to the OS and can be utilized by anybody.

That addition is the iDeal DNS Switcher. This software makes it simple to change between 16 completely different DNS suppliers on the click on of a button. Every of those suppliers have been chosen primarily based on their safety and privateness practices. Even higher, each DNS supplier included is free to make use of. 

You’ll be able to open the iDeal DNS Switcher from the desktop menu > System > iDeal DNS Switcher. As soon as open, you may choose the supplier you need from the drop-down and click on Apply DNS Supplier. You’ll be able to even run a fast DNS leak check (to see in case your DNS service is leaking to your web service supplier) by clicking Take a look at DNS Leak. 

Additionally: You’ll be able to attempt Linux with out ditching Home windows first – here is how

This function alone makes iDeal OS intriguing.

A wealth of functions

Apart from iDealDNS, the checklist of included functions gives an entire assortment of instruments so you may hit the bottom operating. You will discover LibreOffice, GIMP, Betterbird (e-mail), Firefox, VLC media participant, PDF Arranger, KeePassXC, the total suite of MX Instruments, and far more. 

It is a distribution that leaves no stone unturned, so you do not have to fret about putting in something as soon as the OS is up and operating. And since iDeal OS relies on MX Linux, which relies on Debian, you get entry to the usual repositories, that are replete with functions. You additionally get KDE Uncover for straightforward app set up.

Additionally: I struggled with Hyprland for months, till this Arch-based distro mounted it

Though iDeal OS does ship with Flatpak put in, it’s a must to allow assist for it inside KDE Uncover. So as to add Flatpak to Uncover, open the instrument and click on Settins within the left sidebar. On the backside of the web page, you may see Lacking Backends, the place you may discover choices for Flatpak and Snap. 

Click on the downward-pointing arrow for both possibility to put in assist. Restart Uncover and return to Settings, the place you may discover an Add Flathub button on the prime proper nook. Click on that and also you’re good to go.

You additionally get the Yakuake drop-down terminal, which is a good possibility for many who rely upon the terminal and need to use it effectively.

There’s additionally a tasteful Conky widget on the desktop that shows time/date and reminiscence/CPU utilization.

Plasma goodness

Sure, that is KDE Plasma, which suggests you may customise it to your coronary heart’s content material. If you open System Settings > World Theme, you may discover two iDeal OS-specific themes (Darkish and Mild), in addition to the standard default three (Breeze, Breeze Darkish, and Breeze Twighlight). 

Additionally: This Linux distro makes openSUSE accessible to all – even newbies ought to have a look

As all the time, I choose to change to the sunshine model of the theme, as a result of darkish themes are likely to hassle my eyes. When you do not like several of these, click on Get New and you may select from a number of cool themes.

Who’s iDeal OS for?

One factor about fashionable Linux is that so many distributions at the moment are 100% viable for many customers, particularly distributions primarily based on Debian. iDeal OS follows in those self same footsteps: it is simple sufficient to make use of that anybody, no matter talent, may log in and really feel proper at residence. And with the big array of pre-installed functions, you most likely will not must hassle with putting in something out of the gate.

iDeal OS impressed me as a result of it felt so full. It has the whole lot you want, wrapped up in a user-friendly package deal, so it is able to go. 

When you’re involved in giving iDeal OS a attempt, obtain an ISO (it is free) from the official web site.