Damn Small Linux is a compact software that offers a reliable range of applications. It primarily uses GTK2 libraries to provide high performance while using minimal resources.
DSL-N boasts several noteworthy features. For one, it is small, but with feature-full software. It also takes advantage of redundant lib dependencies and is sufficiently compact to pack features into a tight distribution. DSL-N has a modern kernel and does not squeeze out critical modules that would limit compatibility.
Like DSL, DSL-N is versatile in terms of booting options as it can be booted from a CD as a live Linux distribution (LiveCD), from a USB pen drive, within a host operating system such as Windows, and fully in RAM. Additionally, it can be modularly grown without the need for customization, which makes it ideal for users who want to add new features without the hassle of a complete software overhaul.
The applications in DSL-N were chosen because they are functional, usable, and relatively compact. In contrast to DSL, however, DSL-N has GTK2 applications, which means it requires more RAM and CPU cycles to run smoothly. To ensure a pleasant experience, at least 64MBs and 300MHz are recommended.
DSL-N does not have a hard size cap, but it is being developed by the DSL team who disdain bloat, so users should not expect the distribution to get too big. The offshoot was created because a 50MB, GTK2 based distribution with a 2.6.x kernel and excellent hardware detection/support is a contradiction in terms.
This release features several improvements, including added "noprompt noeject" to default boot options for frugal installs, fixed madwifi wireless, and fixed chpasswd vs passwd. Additionally, the release contains added gnu-utils into the base iso, fixed USB2 not loading bug, and enhanced exitcheck to prompt warning if no backup device is selected when requested to save special settings. Finally, there are also several bug fixes such as improved multi-user hard drive install, and added murgaLua Lua/Fltk development toolkit.
Version 0.1 RC4: N/A