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Linux Mint 21.1 ‘Vera’.

Linux Mint 21.1 “Vera” was released on December 20, 2022, a full 14 days after the beta appeared. The popular Ubuntu-based distribution’s intuitive desktop environments make it especially popular among newcomers to Linux.

Linux Mint 21.1 code name “Vera”, brings several interface changes including a cleaner desktop with more vibrant colors. Vera also sees the arrival of more controls in the update, driver, and software managers. New system sounds, ISO tools, and mouse pointers round out this update to the popular Linux distribution.

Let’s see what new Linux Mint 21.1 has in its store for users.

Linux Mint

Linux Mint is one of the most successful distributions based on Ubuntu. And with the number of Ubuntu derivatives out there, that’s saying something. Linux Mint must be doing a lot of things right—at least, according to its passionate user base.

Linux Mint is focused on desktops and laptops. It provides customized desktop environments with a choice of Cinnamon, Xfce, and Mate. It has the Snap store disabled by default; a move first made in Linux Mint 20.

Linux Mint doesn’t have a server version. Its purpose is to provide a simple, intuitive, attractive desktop Linux experience for its users, especially newcomers to the Linux world. The Linux Mint team want a mac or Windows user to be comfortable with Linux Mint within a short time.

Linux kernel

The release will continue to use the Linux 5.15 LTS kernel under the hood, based on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS.

A Refreshed User Interface

When you first boot into the desktop, you should quickly notice the new look of the cursor. It features the new Bibata theme by default.

The cursor icon theme inventory has new options like Yaru, Breeze, and GoogleDot along with the traditional DMZ theme.

Users will also find a unique set of app icon themes to choose from in addition to the traditional Mint-X, Mint-Y, and Mint-Legacy themes. This includes Papirus, Breeze, Numix, and Yaru.

Another interesting thing you may notice is the default accent color isn’t the traditional green anymore, and that’s because the desktop theme is now switched to Aqua. The accent color library offers more vibrant colors and gives the desktop a clean and attractive look.

For those who want the legacy look back, there exists a “Mint-Y-Legacy” option in the theme options. 

Moreover, the Computer, Home, Networks, and Trash icons previously visible on the desktop are removed by default and can be accessed in the file manager. The Home folder icon is displayed on the panel instead. If you want to return the old arrangement, you can do so by heading to the system preferences.

Cleaner Desktop

The desktop has been purged. The “home”, “computer”, “trash”, and “network” icons have been removed.

Clicking the folder icon pinned to the panel opens your “home” directory in the Nemo file browser, so it is still only one click away. Counter-intuitively, its tooltip reads “Files”, but it gives you a fast way to get to Nemo and your “home” directory all in one.

The “computer”, “trash”, and “network” locations are available through the “Go” menu in Nemo or by searching in the start menu.


Files that you copy or save to “~/Desktop” still show up on the desktop, as do mounted devices.

There’s the usual selection of new background wallpapers. You’ve got access to the generic Linux Mint wallpapers, the backgrounds from the Linux Mint 21 Vanessa release, and the new Vera-specific backgrounds.

It’s a stunning collection of images by skilled photographers. Whoever curated these backgrounds did a great job too.

There’s a new “Show Desktop” button at the extreme right-hand end of the panel. It hides all open windows, clearing the desktop with a single mouse click.

It’s practically invisible, but it’s there. Point at it, and you’ll see its tooltip.

A Modern Mouse Pointer

The default mouse pointer has changed. Linux Mint 21.1 uses “Bibata Modern Classic”, which has a gently rounded shape without a tail.


A Modern Mouse Pointer

With all of these cosmetic tweaks, what looks good is subjective. If you don’t like the defaults, you can change them in a flash to something more agreeable to you.

New System Sounds

The system sounds have been updated. As before, the volume can be adjusted, and individual sounds can be switched on and off if they’re too distracting.

A Liberated Driver Manager

The Driver Manager application has been changed to run in user mode. This means it’ll run without the need for a password.

It searches your computer for drivers that are installed and in use, then lists them. It’ll also identify missing drivers and offer to install them.

Our test machine didn’t require any additional drivers, but it’s nice to know that you’ve got a helping hand if your computer does need them.

Enhanced Update Manager

A similar amount of assistance and hand-holding is available in the Update Manager. It makes what can become a complicated task very easy. You can select the packages that you want to update, and exclude those you’re not interested in at this time.

Significantly, support for updating flatpaks has been added.

More Control in Software Manager

If a flatpack is available for an application, the Software Manager let’s you choose between installing a DEB “System Package” or a flatpack.

It’s not the flashiest software store application, but it looks good and works well. You can find what you want quickly from a huge choice of software, and you get a choice of install types, too. I’ll take that over eye candy any day.

New USB Tools

As you’d expect USB Image Writer tool lets you select an ISO image and the USB stick you want to write the image to. It also has a “Verify” button which lets you verify the authenticity of the ISO image before you burn it, which is convenient.

The USB Stick Formatter tool formats USB sticks for you. You can pick a USB stick, set its device name, and choose a file system. There are four file systems supported:

  • FAT32
  • exFAT
  • NTFS
  • ext4

Other improvements

The code which lets you remove applications from the main menu was reviewed and password prompts were removed in situations where administrative permissions weren’t required.

Removing a Flatpak will no longer require a password to be entered. Same goes for simple shortcuts and local applications (i.e. applications which aren’t installed system-wide).

Synaptic and the Update Manager will now also ask pkexec to remember your password so you won’t have to enter it every single time if you perform multiple operations.

Following the upstream deprecation of apt-key, the Software Sources received changes to rework the way it handles PPA keys.

When a PPA is added its key is now only accepted for the PPA itself, not globally for all APT Sources.

Continuous integration for all Linux Mint projects moved from Circle CI to Github Actions. This gives the development team greater control over docker.

Documentation was written and added to the User Guide to cover the following topics:

  • How to reset a forgotten password
  • How to have Bluetooth disabled at boot
  • How to make a Windows live USB stick or a multiboot USB stick

Summary of changes

eRacks/LGRAM
  • First point release of Linux Mint 21, based on Ubuntu 22.04.1 release
  • Linux Kernel 5.15 LTS
  • Cinnamon 5.6.4 desktop
  • Xfce 4.16 desktop
  • MATE 1.26 desktop
  • Friendly driver manager
  • Cleaner default desktop view with fewer icons
  • Default theme changes to “Mint-Y-Aqua” from the green-based icons
  • New cursor theme: Bibata (one of the best cursor themes in Linux)
  • A bunch of stunning wallpapers
  • And an array of bug fixes

Including these, there are lot of new features in this new release. Start using new Linux Mint 21.1 to get the full experiences.

To get the Linux Mint 21.1 on your system, simply upgrade the existing Linux Minx 20.x or do a clean install.

Upgrading to Linux Mint 21.1

Upgrading to Linux Mint 21.1 is simple. Long-time users of the distro will be familiar with the steps needed to do so:

  1. Use the Timeshift app to make a system snapshot
  2. Update any/all Cinnamon spices/applets/themes
  3. Open Update Manager and install any updates
  4. Select the “Upgrade” option in the ‘Edit’ menu of Update Manager
  5. Hit Install

Once all updates are downloaded, unpacked, and installed it’s advised to restart the computer. A reboot ensures all changes take effect, and that the system comes back-up functioning as intended by Linux Mint’s developers.

As mentioned, Linux Mint 21.1 includes a number of visual changes and new artwork. Anyone who makes the upgrade but doesn’t like the new folder icons or aqua color accents can revert to Linux Mint’s older look using the Welcome app available in the applications menu.

Before upgrading or clean install, make sure your system meets the minimum requirements. The system requirements are as follows.

System requirements:

  • 2GB RAM (4GB recommended for a comfortable usage).
  • 20GB of disk space (100GB recommended).
  • 1024×768 resolution (on lower resolutions, press ALT to drag windows with the mouse if they don’t fit in the screen).

Conclusion

If your system doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements, or you need clean pre-installed new system, you can always get one from eRacks Systems store as pre-configured with Linux Mint 21.1.

December 28th, 2022

Posted In: Laptop cookbooks, Linux, Mint, New products, Operating Systems, Upgrades

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Ubuntu 22.10, codenamed “Kinetic Kudu”, is here with eRacks Systems. This release continues Ubuntu’s proud tradition of integrating the latest and greatest open-source technologies into a high-quality, easy-to-use Linux distribution. The team has been hard at work through this cycle, partnering with the community and our partners, to introduce new features and fix bugs.

Ubuntu 22.10 “Kinetic Kudu”

Ubuntu Desktop 22.10 users will benefit from the refinements in GNOME 43, including GTK4 theming for improved performance and consistency. Quick Settings now provide faster access to commonly used options such as wifi, bluetooth, dark mode and power settings.

Since Ubuntu 22.10 “Kinetic Kudu” will be supported for 9 months until July 2023, it was released to the wider public on Oct 20, 2022. Here’s in short, what you can expect from the Ubuntu 22.10 release.

Linux kernel

Linux kernel

Ubuntu 22.10 is shipped with the new 5.19 Linux kernel that brings the most relevant features (in addition to many other new features, new drivers, improvements and fixes.

GNOME 43

In Ubuntu 22.10, GNOME 43 is the base desktop version. GNOME 43 is an impressive release in terms of features and work around the GTK4 and libadwaita. A lot of features which was missed to reach in Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, finally arrived in this version.

Qemu

Qemu was updated to version v7.0.0 which brings many major and minor improvements.

QEMU

libvirt

Tracking the releases of libvirt continuously version v8.6.0 is now provided in Ubuntu 22.10 which – among many other fixes, improvements and features.

Docker.io 20.10.16

This new version contains fixes to avoid potential lock issues and update its dependencies internally.

Security Improvements 

AppArmor gained support for restricting access to unprivileged user namespaces. This allows a system administrator to configure their system so that only applications and services which are confined by an appropriate AppArmor profile can use this feature.

Summary of the key changes in Ubuntu 22.10

eRacks/ZENBOOK15
  • Linux Kernel 5.19
  • GNOME 43
  • Pipewire by default
  • IWD is replacing wpa_supplicant
  • KDE Plasma 5.25 in Kubuntu
  • LXQt 1.1.0 in Lubuntu
  • Firefox 106
  • LibreOffice 7.4
  • Thunderbird 102

Including these, there are a lot of improvements. To experience the full improvements, you need to use one. You can download an installation file directly from here, or get a pre-installed ready to use system from eRacks Systems’ Store.

October 28th, 2022

Posted In: Linux, LiveCD, New products, Open Source, Operating Systems, ubuntu, Zenbook

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Introducing eRacks/ZENBOOK15.UHD 4D resolution, high power Ultrabook with Linux or BSD operating system

Introducing eRacks/ZENBOOK15.UHD 4D resolution, high power Ultrabook with Linux or BSD operating system

We wanted to start the month in style. So, we thought what better way there is than introducing a great looking Ultrabook with powerful specification?   Then the light bulb went on: “eRacks/ZENBOOK15.UHD”.

This really stylish and elegant eRacks/ZENBOOK15.UHD laptop that comes with a screen resolution of 3840 by 2160 — four times FHD (full high-definition) resolution – really started looking mighty good.

This Ultrabook by Asus can be delivered by eRacks with up to 24 Gigabytes of RAM and up to 1 or even 2 Terabytes of SSD hard disk space. As a matter of fact this ultrabook has been ranked the number one among all of ultrabooks that you can find online, this is according to gadget reviews, which is a good indication that it will really serve it’s purpose and will cope up with your expectation. With its 15.6 inch 4K Ultra High Definition IPS screen and a view angle of about 170 degrees, eRacks/ZENBOOK15.UHD is really a great looking and powerful Ultrabook.

As with all eRacks Systems products, this elegant looking Ultrabook will be delivered with your choice of Open Source operating system & software pre-installed and pre-configured. The operating system can be any flavor of Linux or BSD (We can even do other OSes like Haiku, etc on request). We will install and configure the OS fully before packaging your Ultrabook and sending it off your way.

In fact, you can be sure that with your Ultrabook ordered through us, you will receive a powerful open source system, configured to the highest specifications according to your requirements. And you can also be sure that no one else can or will offer anything close to the laptop you will get from us.

So, why not expand your laptop computing power to the next level with us. Contact us and ask about eRacks/ZENBOOK15.UHD. We’ll be happy to hear from you.

info@eracks.com

October 8th, 2015

Posted In: FreeBSD, Laptop cookbooks, New products, News, Products, Upgrades, Zenbook

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Want to eat a healthy diet? Nutritionist Susannah Lawson explains why it’s important to make the right food choices and suggest some easy ideas for healthy eating. Try out phenq.

You may have heard the phrase “you are what you eat”. But what does it mean – and is it true? Perhaps more importantly, what should you eat to feel and become healthier?

Your body is made from the nutrients you consume – proteins, carbohydrates, essential fats, vitamins, minerals and water. These nutrients help your body renew itself naturally – for example, your skin renews itself in 21 days and your bones can repair themselves in six weeks. In five years, you will be an almost completely new person!

However, if you don’t eat healthy food with the right nutrients, your cells won’t reproduce as well or as accurately. Not eating enough of these key nutrients can cause a variety of symptoms – from premature ageing and dull, dry skin, to anxiety and depression; or frequent infections and digestive issues to poor memory and low energy.

The good news is that by taking some simple steps to have a healthy diet, you can help look after your body – and feel and function better than ever. These are the best weight loss pills | firstpost.

1. Balance your nutrients

Why?

You need a mix of the following nutrients to keep everything working well:

  • protein (eg meat, fish, soya, dairy products, nuts/seeds) to build and repair body tissues
  • carbohydrate for energy (slow-releasing and wholegrain sources are best for sustained energy)
  • vitamins and minerals (vegetables and fruit to keep everything functioning)

How?

Help to maintain an ideal balance of these important nutrients by seeing your plate made up of this simple ratio: 25% protein; 25% slow-release carbs; and 50% vegetables, salad and fruit. Try out the latest phenq pills.

To help you get started, here are some healthy meal ideas for breakfast, lunch and dinner:

Breakfast

  • Scrambled eggs, wholegrain toast, tomatoes, and avocado
  • Cream/cottage cheese, oat cakes, watercress, and pear
  • Plain yoghurt, low-sugar granola with chopped apple and berries

Lunch

  • Prawn mayonnaise jacket potato and green salad
  • Smoked salmon wholemeal bagel, with rocket and avocado
  • Hummus pitta bread with carrot, cucumber and pepper sticks. This is the best testosterone booster.

Dinner

  • Chicken breast, roast sweet potatoes, peas, green beans, and red cabbage
  • Grilled steak, New potatoes, grilled mushrooms, and tomatoes
  • Baked salmon and wholegrain pasta with spinach, broccoli, and pesto
  • Halloumi kebab with brown rice, roast peppers, and courgettes

TOP TIP: If you’re a fan of food boxes, double check this ratio applies to the meals provided and top up the veg if necessary.

2. Refuel regularly

Why?

The meal ideas above provide a good balance of nutrients and ‘fuel’ to keep you full of energy throughout the day. Breakfast is particularly important – as the name suggests, you ‘break’ the night ‘fast’, which could mean 12 hours without food. You couldn’t drive your car without fuel in the tank, so don’t try to run your body on empty.

How?

Try to eat three balanced meals a day (see point 1). If you experience a dip in energy, have a snack mid-morning and mid-afternoon too.

Aim to choose healthier, nutrient-rich options such as an apple and chunk of cheese or a handful of unsalted nuts rather than biscuits, sweets or crisps. Check out these exipure reviews.

3. Not all fats are scary!

Why?

Believing all fat is bad or makes you fat is a myth. Yes, fried or processed fatty foods aren’t good for you. But essential fats – found in nuts, seeds and oily fish (eg salmon, mackerel, anchovies or sardines) – help to reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, depression, eczema and arthritis. So, try to eat more!

How?

As long as you are not allergic, enjoy a handful of natural unsalted nuts or seeds daily (they make a great protein-rich snack or topping for cereal or salads). And aim to eat oily fish three times a week.

4. Stay hydrated

Why?

Your body is more than 60% water, so drinking water regularly will hydrate you and help you run more efficiently. Beware of drinking too much tea or coffee because they contain caffeine, which can be dehydrating as well as addictive.

How?

If you feel tired, drinking a glass of water can give you a lift. Also try putting a glass by your bed and drink it first thing, carry a water bottle with you or put it on your desk so it’s always close at hand, dilute fruit juices 50/50 with water and opt for herbal or fruit teas. This way you can quickly build up to the recommended 6-8 glasses a day.

5. Need a top up?

Why?

Even the best diet in the world is unlikely to give you all the nutrients you need, especially when you’re busy or during periods of ill health or stress. So, think about taking some supplements.

How?

During the summer months, we can naturally absorb Vitamin D via our skin from the sun. But to help support our immune systems during the dark winter months, every adult is now recommended to top up their Vitamin D levels. Take 25mcg of the D3 variety daily, from October to April.

During periods where you feel lacklustre or low in energy, a high quality daily multivitamin and mineral can also give you a boost.

Plus, if you don’t like oily fish, consider supplementing omega 3 essential fats.

6. Limit toxins

Why?

As important as getting the nutrients you need, is reducing the substances that can harm or deplete you. These include artificial food additives, processed fats and pesticides and too much alcohol, sugar and stimulants such as caffeine.

How?

Where possible, avoid processed foods and those made with refined ‘white’ flour or sugar (the refining process removes the beneficial nutrients). Easy wins are to swap in brown rice for white rice, and wholegrain for white bread.

Aim to steam, grill, bake or steam-fry your food rather than deep fry.

To help limit your intake of alcohol, consider only drinking moderate amounts (1-2 glasses) at the weekend, and intersperse each drink with a glass of water.

October 20th, 2013

Posted In: How-To, Laptop cookbooks, New products, News, Open Source, Products, ubuntu

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eRacks Open Source Systems new website design

eRacks new website is officially live and fully functional! We completely redesigned the old website. We’ve added a ton of new products, including a custom line of high end gaming laptops.

 

Fremont, CA (PRWEB) January 14, 2013

Have  a look at our Product Lines:
Product Showroom

About eRacks

eRacks strives to return the control of the IT department back to the business owner, by providing quality open source enterprise-level applications on easily-upgradable industry-standard hardware. eRacks believes businesses should not be required to rely on third-party closed-source software vendors

For More Information contact eRacks at info@eracks.com or visit http://www.eracks.com

Dennis
eRacks

January 14th, 2013

Posted In: Laptop cookbooks, News, Open Source

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