ALT Linux GNUstep is an open source and freely distributed operating system based on Mandrake Linux and built around the GNUstep (formerly OpenStep) software, which provides users with a free implementation of Cocoa.
Distributed as 64-bit and 32-bit Live CDs
It is distributed as two Live CD ISO images, one for each of the supported architectures (x86_64 and i586). They are hybrid ISOs, which means that you can write them on either blank CDs or USB flash drives.
Another interesting feature is the ability to save various files during your live sessions, which will be restored whenever you use the boot medium again. However, please keep in mind that it will only work with USB sticks.
Boot options
The boot prompt is pretty much the same as the ones from other ALT Linux StarterKit flavors, allowing users to boot the live environment in persistent mode (session support) or without. Furthermore, you can also run a memory diagnostic test or boot an existing operating system installed on the first disk drive. In addition, you’ll be able to change the language and screen resolution before booting the OS, as well as to add particular boot parameters.
Uses the old-school WindowMaker window manager
The desktop session is powered by the old-school WindowMaker window manager, comprised of desktop widgets called DockApps. The main menu is accessible by right clicking anywhere on the desktop, from where users can launch applications, switch between virtual workspaces, as well as to configure various parameters of the WindowMaker desktop environment.
Default applications
Default applications include the Midnight Commander two-panel file manager, Mozilla Firefox web browser, XTerm terminal emulator, as well as Synaptic Package Manager for those of you who want to install new packages.
As mentioned, this ALT Linux flavor includes the entire GNUstep framework, which includes a wide range of GNU applications, such as GNUMail, TalkSoup, Vespucci, Grr, LuserNET, Cynthiune, LanternaMagica, EdenMath, Stepulator, and many more.
