SparkyLinux JWM

SparkyLinux JWM is a free and open source distribution of Linux built around the JWM (Joe’s Window Manager) software and derived from the highly acclaimed and award-winning Debian GNU/Linux operating system. It is a minimalist distro targeted at low-end machines or computer with old or semi-old hardware components.

Distributed as 32-bit/64-bit Live CDs

The JWM edition of SparkyLinux is distributed for free on Softoware, as Live CD ISO images that help you to use the operating system in live mode, without installing it. There are two ISO images, one for computers that support only the 32-bit architecture, and another one for 64-bit PCs. Please note that you will have to write the ISO image that corresponds to your computer’s hardware architecture on a blank CD disc or a USB flash drive of 1GB or higher capacity in order to boot the OS from the BIOS of a PC.

Offers minimal boot options

The Live DVD boot menu is identical with the one of other SparkyLinux editions, allowing the user to start the live system with normal configuration or in failsafe mode, perform a throughput system memory (RAM) diagnostic test, as well as to boot an existing operating sytem from the first disk drive detected by the BIOS.

Uses Joe’s Window Manager as its default desktop environment

As mentioned, the JWM edition of SparkyLinux is built around JWM, a free and open-source window manager that has been designed to be deployed on old computers, as it requires very low hardware specifications. Joe’s Window Manager uses a traditional layout, comprised of a single panel (taskbar) located on the bottom edge of the screen. A system monitoring widget is also provided on the desktop.

Offers a minimal set of open-source/libre apps

Among the pre-installed applications, we can mention the Iceweasel web browser, XChat IRC client, PCManFM file manager, Leafpad text editor, Midnight Commander two-pane file manager, GNOME Partition Editor, Aptitude package manager, Conky Manager, as well as Synaptic Package Manager for updating existing packages or installing new ones.