Run (Damn Small) Linux on Windows

There are a couple of ways you can try Linux before installing it on your hard drive. One way is to use a live cd, another way is to run it on Windows. Damn Small Linux has a version designed to run directly from Windows. To run (Damn Small) Linux on Windows follow the steps below:

 

1. Download the dsl-embedded zip file from the Damn Small Linux download site.

2. Extract the dsl-embedded zip file using Winzip to a folder called dsl-embedded.

3. Double click and run the dsl-base.bat file in the dsl-embedded folder.

4. Damn Small Linux will then load in the same way as when it is being from the CD.

5. Try Linux!

6. When you are finished right-click on the desktop and go to Powerdown > Shutdown.

Note: Damn Small Linux will run more slowly on Windows than directly from CD.

 

For help on using Damn Small Linux try the getting started page or the friendly and active  forums. You can also read this introduction to the Fluxbox window manager. If you are looking for a lightweight distribution I would highly recommend downloading the regular ISO and running it from CD (and its only a 50 meg download!). It is also very easy to add additional applications such as Firefox or OpenOffice.org using myDSL.