Just launched, MidnightBSD 0.2.1, a FreeBSD fork aimed at providing an easy-to-use desktop experience, includes improved support for new hardware devices such as Nvidia, ATI, or Intel SATA controllers. It also adds better wireless networking support and many new packages. Updated software in MidnightBSD 0.2.1:

· GCC 3.4.6
· Bind 9.4.2-p1
· Sendmail
· Bzip2
· OpenSSH 5.0p1
· PPC compiler added (i386)
· Removal of gnu cpio for BSD licensed version
· cpdup added
· IPv6 fixes
· mksh added

"Users who install kde from the ISOs will be able to enable graphical login on bootup. A script now runs on the first boot asking to enable bsdstats and 'graphical desktop environment'. If the script finds kdm, it will enable it automatically. If you select yes without KDE, it will install and enable slim login manager. I would greatly appreciate users installing bsdstats so that we can get a better idea on usage. - said Lucas Holt, main developer of MidnightBSD, in the official release announcement.

MidnightBSD's project goals:

· Create an easy to use BSD-powered desktop environment, with basic functionality and a full graphical administration interface;
· Create a unique window manager designed with ease-of-use in mind;
· Integrate GNUstep into the system, but maintain BSD licensing on its own code whenever possible. The kernel and most userland software must be BSD licensed;
· Incorporate new technologies from other BSD projects that may interest desktop users, such as OpenBSD's OpenNNTP, OpenSSH, and wireless drivers;
· Create its own ports system, based on the popular FreeBSD ports;
· Setup a binary update system. Therefore, users do not need to compile patches or new releases to get security updates or bug fixes;
· Listen to user feedback to improve the system.

Download MidnightBSD right now from Softpedia.