• Linux Distribution Glossary
• Linux Distro Glossary
• Linux Distros Glossary

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Debian: Debian is one of the oldest and most stable Linux distributions, known for its extensive software repositories and strict adherence to free software principles. It serves as the base for many other distributions, including Ubuntu. Debian offers a range of architectures and package management through the APT system, making it popular in both server and desktop environments. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Debian.

Ubuntu: Ubuntu is a popular Linux distribution based on Debian, designed to be user-friendly and accessible for newcomers to Linux. Developed by Canonical, it is widely used in both desktop and server environments and features regular releases, a large community, and long-term support (LTS) versions. Ubuntu also serves as the base for several other distributions, such as Linux Mint. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ubuntu.

Arch Linux: Arch Linux is a lightweight and flexible Linux distribution that follows a rolling release model, providing users with the latest software and updates. It is known for its simplicity, transparency, and user control, requiring users to manually install and configure their system. Arch Linux is popular among advanced users who prefer a minimal base system that they can customize. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arch_Linux.

Fedora: Fedora is a cutting-edge Linux distribution sponsored by Red Hat, focused on providing the latest free and open-source software. It is often used to test and develop features that later make their way into Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). Fedora is available in different editions, tailored for desktop, server, and cloud environments, and is popular for its innovation and commitment to upstream development. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fedora_Linux.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL): RHEL is a commercial Linux distribution developed by Red Hat for enterprise use. It is designed for stability, security, and long-term support, making it widely used in corporate environments for servers and workstations. RHEL is subscription-based and provides access to certified hardware, software support, and security updates. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Hat_Enterprise_Linux.

CentOS: CentOS (Community Enterprise Operating System) was a free, community-supported alternative to Red Hat Enterprise Linux, designed to provide the same functionality without a commercial subscription. It was popular for servers and enterprise environments where RHEL compatibility was needed. As of 2020, CentOS has shifted focus to CentOS Stream, which is a rolling preview of the next RHEL version. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CentOS.

Linux Mint: Linux Mint is a desktop-oriented Linux distribution based on Ubuntu and Debian. It is designed to provide a user-friendly experience with an emphasis on ease of use, stability, and multimedia support. Linux Mint includes the Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce desktop environments, offering a familiar interface for users transitioning from other operating systems. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linux_Mint.

openSUSE: openSUSE is a Linux distribution known for its stability and versatility, available in two main editions: openSUSE Leap and openSUSE Tumbleweed. Leap is focused on long-term stability, while Tumbleweed follows a rolling release model. openSUSE is widely used in both desktop and server environments and is known for its powerful system management tool, YaST. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OpenSUSE.

Manjaro: Manjaro is a user-friendly Linux distribution based on Arch Linux. It offers all the power and flexibility of Arch with an easier installation process and a more out-of-the-box experience. Manjaro is available in several desktop environments and includes graphical tools for system management, making it more accessible to newcomers while maintaining the flexibility of Arch. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manjaro.

Kali Linux: Kali Linux is a Debian-based distribution designed for penetration testing, digital forensics, and security research. It includes a wide range of security tools for tasks such as network analysis, vulnerability scanning, and password cracking. Kali Linux is widely used by ethical hackers and security professionals for testing system security. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Linux.

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Gentoo Linux: Gentoo Linux is a source-based Linux distribution known for its high degree of customization. Users compile software from source code with specific optimizations for their hardware, providing a highly tailored system. Gentoo is popular among advanced users who prefer control over every aspect of their system, including compilation options and dependencies. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentoo_Linux.

Alpine Linux: Alpine Linux is a lightweight, security-focused Linux distribution designed for use in containers and small-scale deployments. It uses musl as its C standard library and BusyBox for its base utilities, resulting in a minimalistic system. Alpine Linux is popular in cloud environments and is used as the base for many Docker images. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpine_Linux.

Slackware: Slackware is one of the oldest Linux distributions, known for its simplicity and minimalism. It aims to provide a stable and secure environment while staying true to the Unix philosophy of simplicity and transparency. Slackware is highly customizable, with minimal automatic configuration, making it popular among Linux enthusiasts and experienced users. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slackware.

Pop!_OS: Pop!_OS is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution developed by System76, aimed at providing a streamlined experience for developers, engineers, and gamers. It includes out-of-the-box support for NVIDIA drivers and offers a clean, minimal desktop experience with tiling window management features. Pop!_OS is optimized for high-performance computing. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pop!_OS.

MX Linux: MX Linux is a mid-weight Linux distribution based on Debian's stable branch, designed to combine an efficient desktop environment with easy configuration. It features a customized Xfce desktop and various graphical tools that make it user-friendly, especially for beginners. MX Linux is known for its stability, ease of use, and efficiency. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MX_Linux.

Clear Linux: Clear Linux is a Linux distribution developed by Intel, optimized for performance and security on Intel hardware. It is targeted toward developers and data center environments, focusing on speed, security, and efficiency, particularly for cloud and containerized workloads. Clear Linux uses aggressive optimizations and automated performance tuning. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clear_Linux.

Void Linux: Void Linux is an independent Linux distribution that uses the runit init system instead of systemd. It is a rolling release distribution that provides a stable and minimal base system with a focus on simplicity and performance. Void Linux uses the XBPS package manager, which is lightweight and fast. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Void_Linux.

Parrot OS: Parrot OS is a Debian-based Linux distribution focused on security, privacy, and development. It includes tools for penetration testing, forensics, cryptography, and secure communication. Like Kali Linux, it is widely used by security professionals, but it also offers versions tailored for development and daily use. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parrot_Security_OS.

Deepin: Deepin is a Debian-based Linux distribution developed in China, known for its elegant and user-friendly desktop environment, the Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE). It focuses on providing a visually appealing and easy-to-use experience with a variety of applications pre-installed for daily tasks. Deepin is popular for its polished user interface and ease of use. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deepin.

EndeavourOS: EndeavourOS is an Arch Linux-based distribution that provides a user-friendly installation experience while maintaining the simplicity and flexibility of Arch. It offers users the choice to install various desktop environments and aims to provide a clean, minimal experience with optional pre-configured tools. EndeavourOS appeals to users who want the power of Arch with easier setup. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EndeavourOS.

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Zorin OS: Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution designed to offer a familiar interface for users transitioning from Windows or macOS. It includes features like Zorin Appearance that allow users to customize the desktop environment to resemble other operating systems. Zorin OS is known for its ease of use and focus on providing a smooth user experience for beginners. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zorin_OS.

Qubes OS: Qubes OS is a security-focused Linux distribution that uses virtualization to isolate different tasks into separate “qubes” or virtual machines. This approach ensures that security breaches in one qube do not affect the rest of the system. Qubes OS is highly regarded for its advanced security architecture, making it popular among security-conscious users. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qubes_OS.

Solus: Solus is an independent Linux distribution aimed at providing a simple and modern desktop experience. It features the Budgie desktop environment, which is developed in-house. Solus is designed with a focus on home computing and includes a curated selection of software for daily use. It follows a semi-rolling release model, providing up-to-date software with stability. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solus_(operating_system).

Garuda Linux: Garuda Linux is an Arch Linux-based distribution focused on performance, gaming, and eye-catching design. It includes various pre-configured tools to optimize system performance, particularly for gaming and multimedia tasks. Garuda offers multiple desktop environments, with the default being KDE Plasma, and aims to provide a powerful yet user-friendly experience. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garuda_Linux.

PCLinuxOS: PCLinuxOS is an independent Linux distribution that focuses on simplicity and ease of use. It provides a rolling release model and uses the Synaptic package manager with APT for managing software. PCLinuxOS is popular for users who want a system that works out of the box with minimal configuration, offering a wide variety of pre-installed applications. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PCLinuxOS.

Peppermint OS: Peppermint OS is a lightweight Linux distribution based on Ubuntu, designed for speed and efficiency. It integrates web apps seamlessly into the desktop using Ice, a custom tool that allows users to create site-specific browsers for web apps. Peppermint OS is popular for use on older hardware or in cloud-focused environments. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peppermint_OS.

NixOS: NixOS is a declarative Linux distribution that uses the Nix package manager. It allows users to define their entire system configuration in a single file, making it easy to reproduce and rollback changes. NixOS is particularly popular among developers and users who want precise control over system configuration and package management. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NixOS.

Tails: Tails (The Amnesic Incognito Live System) is a Debian-based Linux distribution focused on privacy and anonymity. It routes all internet traffic through Tor and is designed to leave no trace on the host system. Tails is commonly used by journalists, activists, and anyone who needs to maintain privacy and security in their online communications. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tails_(operating_system).

ClearOS: ClearOS is a Linux distribution designed for small businesses and home offices, offering an easy-to-use web-based interface for managing network, gateway, and server services. It is based on CentOS and offers integrated apps for security, file sharing, and network management. ClearOS aims to simplify system administration for users who are not necessarily experienced with Linux. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ClearOS.

Feren OS: Feren OS is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu that focuses on providing a visually appealing and highly customizable user interface. It is designed to be easy to use for newcomers, offering features like the Feren Theme switcher, which allows users to easily change the appearance of the desktop. Feren OS aims to provide a smooth transition for users coming from other operating systems. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feren_OS.

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Oracle Linux: Oracle Linux is a Linux distribution developed by Oracle Corporation, based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It is designed for enterprise use and comes with Oracle's Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel (UEK), which is optimized for Oracle software and database solutions. Oracle Linux is widely used in large-scale, high-performance environments. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oracle_Linux.

Bodhi Linux: Bodhi Linux is a lightweight Linux distribution based on Ubuntu, designed to provide a minimal base system with the Moksha desktop environment. It is aimed at users who want to install only the software they need, giving them full control over their system's configuration. Bodhi Linux is popular for its low system requirements, making it suitable for older hardware. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bodhi_Linux.

Devuan: Devuan is a fork of Debian that was created in response to the adoption of systemd as the default init system in Debian. Devuan aims to provide a system free from systemd, focusing on simplicity, control, and maintaining the traditional Unix philosophy. It is used by users and administrators who prefer alternative init systems like SysVinit. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devuan.

Knoppix: Knoppix is a Debian-based Linux distribution known for being one of the first live CD distributions. It is designed to run directly from a CD, DVD, or USB drive without requiring installation on a hard drive. Knoppix is popular for system recovery, troubleshooting, and as a portable operating system for testing or temporary use. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knoppix.

Rescatux: Rescatux is a Debian-based Linux distribution focused on system recovery. It includes tools to fix boot issues, repair file systems, reset passwords, and manage partitions. Rescatux is designed for both novice and advanced users to recover and repair broken systems, particularly after a system crash or boot failure. More information can be found here: https://www.supergrubdisk.org/rescatux/.

Tiny Core Linux: Tiny Core Linux is a minimal Linux distribution that is designed to be extremely lightweight, using very little system resources. It consists of a small core system that users can expand by installing additional packages. Tiny Core Linux is ideal for embedded systems, older hardware, and users who prefer a highly minimal environment. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiny_Core_Linux.

ROSA Linux: ROSA Linux is a Linux distribution based in Russia, derived from Mandriva Linux. It focuses on providing a user-friendly desktop environment and offers a customized version of the KDE desktop. ROSA Linux is aimed at both personal and business use, with versions tailored for different audiences. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ROSA_Linux.

Sabayon Linux: Sabayon Linux is a Gentoo-based distribution that provides an easy-to-use, pre-configured system, while retaining the power and flexibility of Gentoo. It is a rolling release distribution that offers a wide range of desktop environments and pre-installed applications. Sabayon is designed to be user-friendly and suitable for both newcomers and experienced users. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sabayon_Linux.

Calculate Linux: Calculate Linux is a Gentoo-based distribution that focuses on providing a fast and efficient desktop environment with pre-configured applications. It is designed for both personal and enterprise use, offering a range of versions tailored for different needs, including desktop, server, and cloud. Calculate Linux emphasizes easy system administration and fast deployment. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calculate_Linux.

Trisquel: Trisquel is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution focused on providing a fully free and open-source operating system, adhering to the guidelines set by the Free Software Foundation (FSF). Trisquel includes only free software and drivers, making it a popular choice among users who prioritize software freedom. It is designed for both desktop and server use. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trisquel.

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elementary OS: elementary OS is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution known for its focus on design and user experience. It provides a visually appealing interface with a custom desktop environment called Pantheon. Elementary OS is often praised for its minimalist aesthetic, ease of use, and attention to detail, making it popular among users who prioritize a polished desktop experience. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elementary_OS.

Kubuntu: Kubuntu is an official Ubuntu flavor that uses the KDE Plasma desktop environment. It combines the core Ubuntu system with the flexibility and customization features of KDE, offering a visually rich and highly customizable desktop experience. Kubuntu is popular among users who prefer the advanced features and configurability of KDE while benefiting from Ubuntu’s stability and large software repositories. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubuntu.

Lubuntu: Lubuntu is another official flavor of Ubuntu that uses the LXQt desktop environment, which is designed to be lightweight and energy-efficient. Lubuntu is ideal for older hardware or systems with limited resources, providing a fast and responsive user experience while still offering access to the Ubuntu software ecosystem. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lubuntu.

Xubuntu: Xubuntu is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu that uses the Xfce desktop environment. It is designed to be lightweight and efficient, offering a balance between performance and functionality. Xubuntu is a popular choice for users who want a fast, stable system with lower resource usage, making it ideal for both older hardware and modern machines. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xubuntu.

Deepin Linux: Deepin Linux is a Debian-based Linux distribution developed by the Chinese company Wuhan Deepin Technology. It features the Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE), known for its sleek design and intuitive user interface. Deepin focuses on providing a beautiful and user-friendly desktop experience, with various applications specifically developed for DDE. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deepin.

Slackel: Slackel is a Linux distribution based on both Slackware and Salix, offering a rolling release model. It aims to provide a modern and user-friendly experience while maintaining the simplicity and stability of Slackware. Slackel comes with multiple desktop environments, including KDE, Xfce, and Openbox, and is available for both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slackel.

PureOS: PureOS is a Debian-based Linux distribution developed by Purism with a focus on privacy, security, and free software. It ships with the GNOME desktop environment and comes pre-configured with security and privacy-focused features, such as Tor and DuckDuckGo as the default search engine. PureOS is endorsed by the Free Software Foundation as fully free. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PureOS.

Void Linux: Void Linux is an independent Linux distribution built from scratch with a focus on simplicity, performance, and user control. It uses the runit init system instead of systemd and the XBPS package manager for installing software. Void Linux is a rolling release distribution, offering continuous updates and flexibility in system management. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Void_Linux.

Redcore Linux: Redcore Linux is a Gentoo-based distribution designed to bring the power of Gentoo to the average user with a ready-to-use system. It provides precompiled binaries to reduce setup time while still offering the flexibility and performance of a source-based system. Redcore is known for its rolling release model and focus on speed and simplicity. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redcore_Linux.

Mageia: Mageia is a community-driven Linux distribution forked from Mandriva Linux. It is designed to be easy to use for both new and experienced users and offers a wide range of desktop environments, including GNOME, KDE Plasma, and Xfce. Mageia provides a stable system with a focus on quality, security, and strong community support. More information can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mageia.

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