The LCSEE Optimized Ubuntu Distribution is a software package that is designed to provide a customized and optimized Ubuntu operating system for users in the field of computer science and engineering.
LOUD (LCSEE Optimized Ubuntu Distribution) is a specialized version of Ubuntu that's tailored for the computer science department at West Virginia University. In addition to the standard packages found in Ubuntu, LOUD also includes several custom packages that contain specialized software and scripts for use in courses offered by the department. Furthermore, LOUD offers its own WVU-branded GNOME theme, wallpapers, and login manager.
The project began as a way to provide a consistent development environment across both the public and teaching computer labs at the LCSEE. Given the need for flexibility and customization, Linux was the obvious choice. The first distribution, LOUD Version I Fully Automated Install (FAI), was based on Debian and could be installed remotely via imaging. FAI included software that met most class's development needs.
The next distribution, Version II Hoary-LOUD, was based on the Ubuntu release of Hoary Hedgehog. Ubuntu was chosen for its packaging system and ease of use. After Hoary-LOUD, LOUD was developed on a regular basis, with new versions based on Ubuntu distributions with Long Term Support (LTS). The project has since seen three new releases, namely Version III L-Dapper (based on Ubuntu’s release of Dapper Drake), Version IV L-Fiesty (based on Ubuntu’s release of Fiesty Fawn), and Version V L-Gutsy, which was developed by the LOUD Platform Project.
Currently, the LCSEE Systems Staff is working on the development of the sixth version, L-Hardy. Overall, LOUD is a comprehensive package that offers a specialized, fully-customizable Ubuntu-based distribution designed specifically for computer science students and faculty, with a focus on flexibility, ease of use, and regular updates.
The project began as a way to provide a consistent development environment across both the public and teaching computer labs at the LCSEE. Given the need for flexibility and customization, Linux was the obvious choice. The first distribution, LOUD Version I Fully Automated Install (FAI), was based on Debian and could be installed remotely via imaging. FAI included software that met most class's development needs.
The next distribution, Version II Hoary-LOUD, was based on the Ubuntu release of Hoary Hedgehog. Ubuntu was chosen for its packaging system and ease of use. After Hoary-LOUD, LOUD was developed on a regular basis, with new versions based on Ubuntu distributions with Long Term Support (LTS). The project has since seen three new releases, namely Version III L-Dapper (based on Ubuntu’s release of Dapper Drake), Version IV L-Fiesty (based on Ubuntu’s release of Fiesty Fawn), and Version V L-Gutsy, which was developed by the LOUD Platform Project.
Currently, the LCSEE Systems Staff is working on the development of the sixth version, L-Hardy. Overall, LOUD is a comprehensive package that offers a specialized, fully-customizable Ubuntu-based distribution designed specifically for computer science students and faculty, with a focus on flexibility, ease of use, and regular updates.
What's New
Version 2009-05-26: N/A