[SOLVED] Which kernel should I use

[xr200]

I opened synaptic and searched for kernel-3.2.18.   There are a series of kernels
with "pclos1" in the package name, and a series with "pclos2" in the package name.
The description of "kernel-3.2.18-pclos1" and "kernel-3.2.18-pclos2" appear to be
identical (except for the package name).  

What is the difference between the pclos1 and pclos2 series of kernels?     How do I
determine which one is better suited to my hardware and use?

xr200

Thanks for the replies; the link to PCLinuxOShelp was very useful.

[muungwana]

Two is greater than one and hence -pclos2 is a more recent kernel than -pclos1.

Unless otherwise, always go with the latest version of the kernel so go with -pclos2

-pclosX shows an updated version of the same kernel version. It usually happen when the same version of the kernel is rebuild to fix various issues.

[agmg]

And this numbering applies to packages as well...

[menotu]

Additionally, you may see one's with a .pae extension, these allow - on a 32bit install - all your memory to be seen/used. (non .pae can only "see" approx 3.3GB out of 4GB memory)

Also you will see some with the .bfs extension which may help optimize your system. (web search for what .bfs means)

One thing I would suggest is only installing one kernel at a time; you can always try another later on.

When you reboot, that kernel will be the topmost entry in your boot menu. Also, that first boot may take a few minutes to get to the desktop as it's "building" itself into your system so patience is required

[sling-shot]

Also have a look at this wiki page :
http://www.pclinuxoshelp.com/index.php/Kernel