What is the deference between "desktop" & "alternate" files?

[Ichido]

What is the deference between the "kubuntu-7.10-desktop-i386.iso " and the "kubuntu-7.10-alternate-i386.iso" download files at the download site: http://ubuntu.osuosl.org/releases/kubuntu/gutsy/

[v_override]

Re: What is the deference between "desktop" & "alternate" files?

The desktop version is more like a Kubuntu version that's already assembled.....like....ready to install.
While the alternate version of a distro is something like you have to put some stuff together yourself.

I would choose the Desktop version if I was you.
With Linux you are free to do whatever you want....with the alternate version, you'll be able to choose your own kernel version, display drivers,.... which makes it alot more difficult to assemble a good "ready to install" distro.

EDIT:

If you want a more detailed answer, you can check this topic

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=220850

[Qqmike]

Re: What is the deference between "desktop" & "alternate" files?

I would add one important thing: Rescue capability!

The regular Desktop install CD can be run as a Live Kubuntu operating system, complete with Internet browser (Konqueror). So, even if you use the Alternate installer (for technical reasons), I would still get the Live Kubuntu CD. (Or, get some other Live rescue CD, like Puppy Live CD or Knoppix Live CD, or any Linux live CD--and practice using it before the need arises, which is why a Kubuntu Live CD is nice, because you already know how to use Kubuntu).
A live CD can be used to rescue your operating system, your data, or to fix your operating system.


EDIT: The Alternate installer also has * some * rescue capability, in terms of fixing an OS; but it does not have capability to run as a live operating system.

[Ichido]

Re: What is the deference between "desktop" & "alternate" files?

A BIG Thanks to v_override & Qqmike for your helpful answers