Linux Support - HP D7171A - NetServer - LPr Notice

About Linux
The Linux OS for personal computers is a UNIX-like OS and meets POSIX standards. It uses a
kernel developed and made freely available by Linus Torvalds (for whom it is named). Originally
developed over the global Internet, Linux has become a widely-used OS that involves its users in
developing new features.
General Public License
Linux is supplied as a set of executable files which are accompanied by the corresponding source
code. The files and code can be copied under the terms of a GPL or "General Public License."
This means users can install and use it for free. In exchange, under the GPL, users who make
changes in the source code (to extend the usefulness of the OS on their own installations) are
required to make their changes available to the rest of the user community under the same terms
(with source code and free of charge).

Linux Support

Linux installations can be time-consuming and each requires someone skillful in OS
programming. Distributors of Linux (like Red Hat Software of Research Triangle Park, NC) have
created documentation, service, and support facilities for users who want to install Linux. The
kernel and source code are still freely licensed, but the client pays for the convenience of
installing the software as a package from a CD-ROM. Other services are also available for a fee.
Red Hat Linux 5.2 Supported on the LC 3 and LPr
HP and Red Hat support Red Hat Linux 5.2 on the tested, approved HP NetServer LC3 and LPr
configuration (See Appendix A.) HP recommends Red Hat Linux version 5.2, the Commercial
Server Edition, be purchased directly from Red Hat software or a Red Hat distributor. The
Commercial Server Edition comes bundled with 90 days of support. If another version is chosen,
Red Hat has support options available for purchase. Hewlett Packard does not provide support for
the Linux Operating System, nor for Red Hat software running on its servers. HP does provide
support for hardware problems related to installation of Linux, and will assist customers to
classify and solve such problems. Please ensure you enlist Red Hat's support directly before you
install the software.
Benefits Claimed for Linux
Some of the benefits claimed for the use of Linux include the following:
Can be run from a disk partition, even if another OS is installed
Multi-user, multi-tasking, multi-threading operating system adapted originally for
Intel PC microcomputers
Now runs on a wide range of server and computer equipment, including the HP
NetServer LPr, LC 3, Digital Alpha, Sun SPARC, and Apple Power Mac.
No restrictive control is in place on the OS and improvements; although Linux may be
packaged for sale, it is also available for free download
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