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10. The X Window System.

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10.1 Does Linux support X Windows?

Yes. Linux uses XFree86 (the current version is 3.3.2, which is based on X11R6). You need to have a video card which is supported by XFree86. See the Linux XFree86 HOWTO for more details.

Most Linux distributions nowadays come with an X installation.

However, you can install or upgrade your own, from /pub/Linux/X11/Xfree86-* on sunsite.unc.edu and its mirror sites.

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10.2 Where can I get an XF86Config for my system?

See the Linux XFree86 HOWTO, recent versions of Installation and Getting Started, and the instructions for the XF86Setup program.

The contents of the XF86Config file depend on the your exact combination of video card and monitor. It can either be configured by hand, or using the XF86Setup utility. Read the instructions that came with XFree86, in /usr/X11R6/lib/X11/etc. The file you probably need to look at most is README.Config.

You should not use the sample XF86Config.eg file which is included with newer versions of XFree86 verbatim, because the wrong video clock settings can damage your monitor.

Please don't post to comp.os.linux.x asking for an XF86Config, and please don't answer such requests.

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10.3 xterm logins show up strangely in who, finger.

The xterm that comes with XFree86 2.1 and earlier doesn't correctly understand the format that Linux uses for the /var/adm/utmp file, where the system records who is logged in. It therefore doesn't set all the information correctly.

The Xterms in XFree86 3.1 and later versions fix this problem.

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10.4 I can't get X Windows to work right.

Read the XFree86 HOWTO--note the question and answer section.

Try reading comp.windows.x.i386unix--specifically read the the FAQ for that group.

Please don't post X Windows or XFree86 related questions to comp.os.linux.x unless they are Linux-specific.

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