As we step into the early days of 2025, the Linux community is buzzing with excitement over the latest release of iDeal OS iD3.4, announced on December 27, 2024. This cutting-edge distribution, developed by Luca Vezzoli, has been making waves in the open-source world since its inception. Let's dive into what makes this release so special and why it's capturing the attention of both seasoned Linux users and newcomers alike.
The Birth of iDeal OS
iDeal OS is an enhanced and personalized "respin" of the powerful MX Linux distribution, with the best privacy and security settings enabled by default. Born from a vision to create an OS that prioritizes user privacy and security, iDeal OS aims to provide a seamless computing experience while safeguarding personal information.
A Journey of Continuous Improvement
Since its inception, iDeal OS has undergone rapid development. The project quickly gained traction in the open-source community, attracting users who share Vezzoli's vision of a secure and private computing environment. With the release of iD3.4, iDeal OS has entered a new phase of maturity.
iD3.4: What's New and Exciting
he latest release, iD3.4, brings several improvements and new features:
Updated Packages and Applications
All packages and applications have been updated or upgraded, ensuring users have access to the latest software versions.
Streamlined Installation
The number of default wallpapers has been reduced to limit the size of the .ISO file, saving 1 GiB of space and potentially speeding up the installation process.
New Software Additions
- HomeBank: Added to both Emerald and Diamond editions for personal accounting management.
- Audacity: Included in the Diamond Edition for multitrack audio editing.
- LSP Plugins: Added to the Diamond Edition, providing a comprehensive audio FX suite.
Privacy and Security at the Core
The main goals of iDeal OS are privacy and security[4]. Users can surf, shop, trade, and bank online with complete peace of mind, protected from annoying ads, tracking, logging, bugs, viruses, and unwanted disclosure of personal information. The free Quad9 recursive DNS service is enabled by default, offering protection against a wide range of threats such as malware, phishing, spyware, and botnets.
Specialized Editions
iDeal OS iD3.4 comes in two distinct editions, each tailored to specific use cases:
iDeal OS Emerald Edition
The Emerald Edition is free and fully functional, designed for everyday users[5]. It features:
- An intuitive, simple, and familiar interface
- Pre-installed applications for common tasks
- Automatic update checks with user control over installation
- Compatibility with older hardware, promoting sustainability
iDeal OS Diamond Edition
Geared towards professionals and content creators, the Diamond Edition includes a curated selection of tools for multimedia content creation. It's available with a one-time donation of 59€ or more and offers:
- Advanced applications for audio, video, and image editing
- Tools for machine virtualization and AI research
- A complete and powerful professional workstation environment
Hardware Requirements
The hardware requirements for iDeal OS vary depending on the edition:
iDeal OS Emerald Edition:
- Minimum: Dual-core CPU, 4 GB RAM, 32 GB hard drive
- Recommended: Quad-core CPU, 8 GB RAM, SSD hard drive
iDeal OS Diamond Edition:
- Recommended: 8-core CPU, 16+ GB RAM, 512+ GB NVMe or M2 SSD
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650 or equivalent (minimum for complex video editing tasks)
Installation Process
iDeal OS can be tried in live mode without modifying your current operating system. To install:
1. Back up all important files
2. Create a bootable Live USB using tools like Etcher or Rufus
3. Boot from the USB key
4. Run the MX installer and follow the instructions
Conclusion
iDeal OS iD3.4 represents a significant step forward in privacy-focused Linux distributions. By combining the stability of MX Linux with enhanced privacy features and a user-friendly interface, iDeal OS is positioning itself as a strong contender for users who prioritize both security and functionality in their computing experience.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information available at the time of writing and may not reflect any changes or updates made after its publication. Users are advised to consult the official iDeal OS documentation and release notes for the most up-to-date and accurate information before making any decisions regarding installation or use of the operating system.
References
1. iDeal OS Official Website
2. MX Linux Official Website
3. Quad9 DNS Service
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