Welcome to the Java Desktop System GNU/Linux Community Website

Home Users

Perhaps you have seen news articles promoting the Java Desktop System (JDS) as the first alternative to Microsoft Windows in the past 15 years. You may have even read that somewhere on this web site. While JDS is the first commercial desktop alternative to Windows, Sun Microsystems did not develop it with home users in mind.

Sun has always marketed its product to enterprise customers such as Boeing, Intel, Ericsson and thousands of others. Sun is not known as a consumer products company. So JDS, while attractive to many home users may not fit your particular needs out of the box.

Is JDS for Me?

The answer depends on how you use your computer. Are you an average computer user who wants web browsing, email, instant messaging and a quality word processing suite like Microsoft Office? Then you will find JDS an excellent product.

On the other hand, do you have your whole life tied up in everything Microsoft or Apple from obscure utilities, extensive graphic programs, flight training, management of deer leases, DVD Players and specialized digital camera archiving applications, etc.? You may need to stay with Microsoft and Apple. Make sure you have an up-to-date virus scanner, a program that removes spyware, and ways to archive important data files. Also avoid using Microsoft Internet Explorer, Outlook Express and Outlook. You're a sitting duck if you use those products.

Should I Buy a New Computer with JDS Already Installed?

If you have asked yourself that question, then you should. Here is a list of companies that bundle their computers with JDS.

Is this a complete list? Probably not. You may have to ask other companies if they offer JDS with on their systems.

I'm Pretty Good at Installing Software, What about Upgrading to JDS?

Some people have installed JDS in less than 30 minutes without a hitch. Others may discover than their systems have components that are not compatible with Linux. On this web site, we attempt to help you with problems you might have. Also, you should consider looking through the JDS Forum at Sun.

If you have a strong willingness to try JDS, then consider dual booting it. You can install JDS on a system with an existing Windows partition. Before you do make sure your components are compatible with JDS. Again, use the Sun JDS Forum, ask if your laptop is supported and you'll get an answer. One thing to consider, unless you are a Linux Pro or know someone who can help you, BE CAREFUL DUAL BOOTING ON LAPTOPS. Many JDS Laptop users monitor the JDS Forum and they can help you. We suggest you ask first!

What if I Need Help?

JDSHelp.org exists to help consumers utilize the many software applications and benefits of Linux. We invite you to look around the web site and review our software list. This is a community web site and the resources are mostly free. You might be surprised to find out that you can run many Windows applications by visiting our resource section, for example. Check out CodeWeavers.

Thank you for dropping by and contact us with any questions you may have.