List of Linux distributions facts for kids
This page provides general information about notable Linux distributions in the form of a categorized list. Distributions are organized into sections by the major distribution or package management system they are based on.
Contents
Debian-based
Debian (a portmanteau of the names "Deb" and "Ian") Linux is a distribution that emphasizes free software. It supports many hardware platforms. Debian and distributions based on it use the .deb package format and the dpkg package manager and its frontends (such as apt or synaptic).
Ubuntu-based
Ubuntu (named after the Nguni philosophy of ubuntu) is a distribution based on Debian, designed to have regular releases, a consistent user experience and commercial support on both desktops and servers.
Current official derivatives
These Ubuntu variants, also known as Ubuntu flavours, simply install a set of packages different from the original Ubuntu, but since they draw additional packages and updates from the same repositories as Ubuntu, all of the same software is available for each of them.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Edubuntu | A complete Linux based operating system that was targeted for primary and secondary education. Outdated versions are freely available with community-based support. The Edubuntu community is built on the ideas enshrined in the Edubuntu Manifesto: that software, especially for education, should be available free of charge and that software tools should be usable by people in their local language and despite any disabilities. |
| Kubuntu | An official derivative of Ubuntu Linux using KDE instead of the GNOME (or Unity) desktop environment used by default in Ubuntu. |
| Lubuntu | An official derivative of the Ubuntu operating system that is "lighter, less resource hungry and more energy-efficient", using the LXQt desktop environment (used LXDE before 18.10). |
| Ubuntu Budgie | An official derivative of Ubuntu using Budgie. |
| Ubuntu Cinnamon | An official derivative of Ubuntu using the Cinnamon desktop environment. |
| Ubuntu Kylin | An official derivative aimed at the Chinese market. |
| Ubuntu MATE | An official derivative of Ubuntu using MATE, a desktop environment forked from the now-defunct GNOME 2 code base, with an emphasis on the desktop metaphor. |
| Ubuntu Server | An official derivative made for use in servers & IBM mainframes. Ubuntu Server handles mail, controls printers, acts as a fileserver, can host LAMP and more. |
| Ubuntu Studio | Based on Ubuntu, providing open-source applications for multimedia creation aimed at the audio, video and graphic editors. |
| Ubuntu Unity | An official derivative of Ubuntu using the Unity desktop environment. |
| Xubuntu | An official derivative of Ubuntu using Xfce. Xubuntu is intended for use on less-powerful computers or those who seek a highly efficient desktop environment on faster systems, and uses mostly GTK applications. |
Discontinued official derivatives
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Gobuntu | Gobuntu was an official derivative of the Ubuntu operating system, aiming to provide a distribution consisting entirely of free software. It was officially announced by Mark Shuttleworth on July 10, 2007, and daily builds of Gobuntu 7.10 began to be publicly released. The project ended around the release of 8.04 and has since merged into mainline Ubuntu as a 'free software' option. |
| Mythbuntu | Based on Ubuntu and MythTV, providing applications for recording TV and acting as a media center. On 4 November 2016 the development team announced the end of Mythbuntu as a separate distribution, citing insufficient developers. |
| Ubuntu GNOME | Formerly an official Ubuntu variant, but since the main Ubuntu 17.10, which uses GNOME Shell as its default desktop and GDM as its display manager, this distro has been merged into mainline releases. |
| Ubuntu JeOS | "Just Enough OS" – was described as "an efficient variant [...] configured specifically for virtual appliances". Since the release of Ubuntu 8.10 it has been included as an option as part of the standard Ubuntu Server Edition. |
| Ubuntu Mobile | An embedded operating system designed for use on mobile devices. The operating system will use Hildon from maemo as its graphical frontend. Ubuntu Touch is a successor to Ubuntu Mobile. |
| Ubuntu Netbook Edition | Netbook Edition was an official derivative of Ubuntu designed for netbooks using the Intel Atom processor. Starting from Ubuntu 11.04, Ubuntu Netbook Edition has been merged into the desktop edition. |
| Ubuntu Touch | Designed for use with touchscreen devices. |
| Ubuntu TV | Designed for use with TVs. |
Unofficial derivatives
Unofficial variants and derivatives are not controlled or guided by Canonical Ltd. and generally have different goals in mind.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| BackBox | BackBox is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu. It has been developed to perform penetration tests and security assessments. Designed to be fast, easy to use and provide a minimal yet complete desktop environment, thanks to its own software repositories, always being updated to the latest stable version of the most used and best known ethical hacking tools. |
| Bodhi Linux | An Ubuntu-based Linux distribution featuring the Moksha Desktop environment and targeting users who want a minimum of preinstalled software or low system requirements. |
| Cub Linux | Ubuntu-based distribution designed to mimic the desktop appearance and functionality of ChromeOS. |
| dyne:bolic | Live CD geared toward multimedia (audio and video) production, but comes with other non-media specific application (e.g. word processor, desktop publisher) |
| EasyPeasy | Fork of Ubuntu designed for netbooks |
| Eeebuntu | Specifically for the Eee PC range of netbooks, based on Debian. Also rebranded as Aurora OS. |
| Element OS | Based on Xubuntu, made for Home theater PCs |
| elementary OS | A distribution focusing mainly on non-technical users, has a pay what you want model. |
| Emmabuntüs | Based on Xubuntu designed to facilitate the repacking of computers donated to Emmaüs Communities. |
| GalliumOS | A Linux distribution for ChromeOS devices by the community-supported GalliumOS project. Gallium is based on Xubuntu and maintains compatibility with the Ubuntu repositories. |
| GendBuntu | A version adapted for use by France's National Gendarmerie. |
| Goobuntu | An Ubuntu-based distribution that was used internally by Google (until changing to non-Ubuntu, Debian-based GLinux); not available outside of Google |
| gOS | Used the GNOME desktop environment with user interface enhancements to make it work more like Mac OS X, it also featured Google Apps, Picasa, Google Gadgets and other web-based applications, and came with Wine 1.0 pre-installed. Now discontinued. |
| Joli OS | Joli OS (formerly named Jolicloud) is in development and Pre-beta testing. Joli OS is built upon Debian and Ubuntu 9.10, but is tweaked to be more suitable for computers that have weaker specifications in terms of disk storage, memory and screen size. It is designed to run on relatively low-powered netbook computers. |
| Karoshi | A formerly PCLinuxOS-based distribution designed for use in schools. |
| KDE neon | Focused on the development of KDE. The emphasis is on bleeding edge software packages sourced directly from KDE and offers programmers early access to new features, but potentially at the cost of greater susceptibility to software bugs. |
| LiMux | A project by the city council of Munich, Germany |
| Linux Caixa Mágica | Portuguese Linux distribution. |
| Linux Lite | The purpose of Linux Lite is to introduce Windows users to Linux, and provide them with a comfortable and useful user experience. It is designed to be simple and suitable for new Linux users who want a lightweight, highly responsive, and fully functional environment. |
| Linux Mint | Linux Mint synchronizes its release-cycle with Ubuntu's long-term support, and is tailored to user-friendliness for desktop users. Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) is Mint's Debian stable based version. Its purpose is to use Debian base packages/kernel under the hood should Ubuntu ever disappear. It's also used by Mint developers to develop their Cinnamon desktop. |
| LinuxMCE | Linux Media Center Edition, a Kubuntu-based distribution that provides in-depth HTPC functionality as well as home automation. |
| LinuxTLE | A Thai Linux distribution. Not maintained. |
| LliureX | A distribution by the Generalitat Valenciana |
| LXLE Linux | A light-weight Linux distribution based on Lubuntu, using the LXDE desktop environment. |
| MAX | Stands for MAdrid LinuX. Used in education. |
| Maya OS | A distribution developed by Indian Ministry of Defence. |
| Molinux | Ubuntu based initiative to introduce the Castile-La Mancha community in Spain to the information society. |
| Netrunner | Kubuntu based distribution with complete software and codecs installed, developed by Blue Systems (also sponsoring Kubuntu and LinuxMintKDE). |
| Nova | Cuban state-sponsored distribution developed at the University of Information Science, Havana. Formerly based on Gentoo. |
| OpenGEU | Ubuntu based distribution with Enlightenment window manager, previously known as Geubuntu. |
| Peppermint OS | A light-weight LXDE distribution for cloud applications through its own Ice Framework using the Chromium Web Browser. Based on Lubuntu |
| Pinguy OS | An Ubuntu-based distro for people that have never used Linux before or for people that want an out-of-the-box working OS without having to tweak a fresh installation of Ubuntu or other Ubuntu-based distro. |
| Pop! OS | An Ubuntu-based distro developed by System76 predominantly for use on hardware that they manufacture. |
| Poseidon Linux | For academic and scientific use. Based on Ubuntu, but enhanced by GIS/maps, numerical modelling, 2D/3D/4D visualization, statistics, tools for creating simple and complex graphics, programming languages. |
| Sabily | Ubuntu based distribution for Muslims (formerly Ubuntu Muslim Edition) Unmaintained |
| SuperGamer | A Live DVD distribution focused on gaming formerly based on VectorLinux. |
| Trisquel GNU/Linux | Fully free-software system without proprietary software or firmware and uses the Linux-libre kernel deblob script, based on Ubuntu LTS Releases |
| UberStudent | For higher education and advanced secondary students, those who teach them, and lifelong learners |
| Ututo | Ututo UL ("Ubuntu-Libre") Distributes Simusol, a system to simulate Solar Energy projects, returned to the heart of the project. Discontinued. |
| Vinux | A Linux distribution designed for visually impaired users |
| Zorin OS | Zorin OS is a user-friendly distribution that can emulate Microsoft Windows or macOS. It is meant for users unfamiliar with Linux. |
Knoppix-based
Knoppix (a portmanteau of the surname Knopper from Klaus Knopper and Unix) itself is based on Debian. It is a live distribution, with automated hardware configuration and a wide choice of software, which is decompressed as it loads from the drive.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| ... Small Linux | A small Linux distro designed to run on older hardware. It is commonly used on virtual machines due to low memory requirements. |
| Feather Linux | Boots from either a CD or a USB flash drive. Uses Knoppix-based hardware detection and the Fluxbox window manager. |
BackTrack-based
BackTrack (named after the homonym class of backtracking algorithms) was developed by Offensive Security and designed for penetration testing. In March 2013, the Offensive Security team rebuilt BackTrack for the Debian distribution and released it under the name Kali Linux.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Kali Linux | Made to be a completely customizable OS, used for penetration testing. It is based on Debian GNU/Linux and is used mostly by security experts |
| Kali NetHunter | Mobile version based on Kali Linux. |
Other Debian-based
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| antiX | It is comparatively lightweight and suitable for older computers, while also providing kernel and applications, as well as updates and additions via the Aptitude and Debian-compatible repositories. |
| Astra Linux | A Russian Linux-based computer operating system developed to meet the needs of the Russian army, other armed forces and intelligence agencies. It provides data protection up to the level of "top secret" in Russian classified information grade. It has been officially certified by Russian Defense Ministry, Federal Service for Technical and Export Control and Federal Security Service. |
| Bharat Operating System Solutions (BOSS) | An Indian Linux distribution |
| Canaima | A Venezuelan Linux distribution. |
| Corel Linux | Short-lived commercial desktop Linux distribution, bought by Xandros Linux. |
| CrunchBang Linux | A small Linux Distro and Live CD based on Debian Stable, featuring the Openbox window manager and tint2 panel with GTK+ applications. Development has ended for CrunchBang as of February, 2015. |
| Deepin | A Debian-based Chinese Linux Distribution developed by Wuhan Deepin Technology Co. |
| Devuan | A fork of Debian begun in 2014 with the primary goal of allowing user choice in init systems, by decoupling software packages from systemd. |
| DoudouLinux | A discontinued distribution intended for children. |
| Dreamlinux | A discontinued Brazilian Linux distribution. |
| Emdebian Grip | A small-footprint Linux distribution based on and compatible with Debian, intended for use on resource-limited embedded systems. |
| Finnix | A small system-administration Live CD that is available for multiple architectures |
| gLinux | gLinux is a Linux Distro used for Google Employees. |
| gNewSense | Originally based on Ubuntu and later upon Debian, and developed with sponsorship from the Free Software Foundation. Its goal is user-friendliness, but with all proprietary (e.g. binary blobs) and non-free software removed. |
| grml | Live CD for system recovery |
| HandyLinux | Designed for senior citizens running old computers for which Windows has become too slow |
| Kanotix | An installable live DVD/CD for desktop usage using KDE and LXDE, focusing on convenient scripts and GUI for ease of use. |
| LEAF Project | The Linux Embedded Appliance Framework. A tiny primarily floppy-based distribution for routers, firewalls and other appliances. |
| Libranet | A discontinued operating system based on Debian. |
| LiMux | An ISO 9241 industry workplace certified Linux distribution, deployed at the City of Munich, Germany. |
| LMDE | A Debian-based version of Linux Mint that does not use any elements of Ubuntu linux, maintained to ensure continuity should Ubuntu stop being maintained or other issue effecting the core Mint distribution. |
| Maemo | A development platform for hand held devices such as the Nokia N800, N810, and Nokia N900 Internet Tablets and other Linux kernel–based devices. |
| MEPIS | A discontinued OS that focused on ease of use. Significant derivatives include antiX and MX Linux. |
| MintPPC | For PowerPC computers. Although MintPPC uses some Linux Mint Debian Edition code, it is not Linux Mint. |
| Musix GNU+Linux | Intended for music production, graphic design, audio, video editing, and other tasks. It is built with only free software. |
| MX Linux | A midweight OS based on Debian Stable with core components from antiX and using Xfce, offering simple configuration, high stability, solid performance and medium-sized footprint. |
| NepaLinux | A Debian- and Morphix-based distribution focused for desktop usage in Nepali language computing. |
| OpenZaurus | Debian packages and ROM image for the Sharp Zaurus PDA. Replaced by Ångström distribution. |
| Pardus | Developed by Turkish National Research Institute of Electronics and Cryptology. Prior to 2013 it used PISI as the package manager, with COMAR as the configuration framework. Starting with Pardus 2013, it is Debian-based. |
| Parrot OS | A Linux distribution based on Debian used by penetration testers. |
| Parsix | Optimized for personal computers and laptops. Built on top of Debian testing branch and comes with security support. |
| PelicanHPC | Dedicated to setting up a computer cluster. |
| PureOS | A Linux distribution based on Debian with a focus on privacy, security, and convenience. |
| Q4OS | A light-weight Linux distribution with Trinity and Plasma desktop environments. |
| Raspberry Pi OS | Desktop-oriented distribution, formerly known as Raspbian. Developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation as the official OS for their family of low-power Raspberry Pi single-board computers. |
| SolydXK | Xfce and KDE desktop focused on stability, security and ease of use. |
| SparkyLinux | A Debian-based Linux distribution which provides ready to use, out of the box operating system with a set of slightly customized lightweight desktops. Sparky is targeted to all the computer's users who want replace existing, proprietary driven OS to an open-sourced.. |
| Sunwah Linux | A Chinese Linux distribution |
| The Amnesic Incognito Live System (TAILS) | The Amnesic Incognito Live System' or Tails is aimed at preserving privacy and anonymity, with all outgoing connections forced to go through Tor. |
| TTOS Linux | A Debian-based open source distribution bundled with a plethora of unique software and utilities for many uses ranging from security to setup and gaming. |
| TurnKey Linux | Open source project developing a family of free, Debian-based appliances optimized for ease of use in server-type usage scenarios. Based on Debian since 2012; previously based on Ubuntu. |
| Twister OS | Raspberry Pi OS based distribution using Xfce with themes based on other OSes intended for the Raspberry Pi, RK3399 CPU, and x86_64 architecture. |
| Univention Corporate Server | Enterprise distribution with integrated IT infrastructure and identity management system by the company Univention GmbH, Germany. A full version for up to 5 users for tests and for private use can be downloaded for free. |
| Webconverger | Debian Live-based browser only distribution, similar to ChromeOS. However based on Firefox and dwm, with no user sign-in, no special hardware required and designed for public places. |
| Vyatta | Commercial open source network operating system includes routing, firewall, VPN, intrusion prevention and more. Designed to be an open source Cisco replacement. |
| VyOS | Free routing platform. Because VyOS is run on standard amd64, i586 and ARM systems, it is able to be used as a router and firewall platform for cloud deployments. |
Pacman-based
Pacman is a package manager that is capable of resolving dependencies and automatically downloading and installing all necessary packages. It is primarily developed and used by Arch Linux and its derivatives.
Arch Linux-based
Arch Linux is an independently developed, x86-64 general-purpose Linux distribution that strives to provide the latest stable versions of most software by following a rolling-release model. The default installation is a minimal base system, configured by the user to only add what is purposely required.
| Distribution | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Antergos | Antergos is a discontinued Linux distribution based on Arch Linux. | |
| Arch Linux ARM | Port of Arch Linux for ARM processors. | |
| ArchBang | Based on Arch Linux, but also provides Live CDs with working system and graphical installation scripts; uses i3 as default window manager. | |
| Artix Linux | Based on Arch Linux, but using OpenRC, Runit or s6 as init system instead of systemd. | |
| ArchLabs | Based on Arch Linux, with a custom installer, offers many choices of desktop environments and window managers. | |
| Asahi Linux | Port of Linux to Apple silicon-powered Macs. | |
| BlackArch | A cybersecurity-focused OS based on Arch Linux. It is designed to test security and run penetration tests. It includes window managers preconfigured, but no desktop environment. | |
| EndeavourOS | Continuation of Antergos, featuring a graphical installer capable of installing Xfce (default, offline), Budgie, Cinnamon, Deepin, GNOME, i3, KDE Plasma 5, LXQt, and MATE. | |
| Garuda Linux | A distribution based on gaming. | |
| Hyperbola GNU/Linux-libre | An Arch and Debian derivative without any blobs, without systemd support and with OpenRC as its default init system. Packages are built for i686 and x64. Unlike Arch, Hyperbola uses the long-term support model like Debian. | |
| LinHES | LinHES (Linux Home Entertainment Server) designed for use on home theater PCs (HTPCs), providing applications for recording TV and acting as a sound and video center. | |
| Manjaro | Based on Arch Linux, using its own repositories and ships with either Xfce, Plasma, GNOME, or the CLI as the default desktop environment. Additional community-driven editions are available that use MATE, Cinnamon, Openbox, Awesome, i3, BSPWM, or Budgie as a base. | |
| Parabola GNU/Linux-libre | An Arch derivative without any blobs, plus various added packages. Packages are also built for ARMv7 in addition to i686 and x64. MATE and text-mode distributions available. | |
| SteamOS | Arch-based and gaming-focused distribution developed by Valve and designed for the Steam digital distribution platform and Steam Deck. Before version 3.0, was previously based on Debian. | |
| SystemRescue | Linux System rescue toolkit. Previously based on Gentoo, it has been based on Arch Linux since version 6.0.0 |
Other Pacman-based
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Chakra Linux | Originally derived from Arch Linux, with the latest KDE. For now uses the Pacman utility for package management. Strives to be Qt-only. Discontinued. |
| Frugalware Linux | A general purpose Linux distribution designed for intermediate users. Has some influences from Slackware, and uses a heavily modified version of pacman, Pacman-G2, a fork of a cvs version of the complete rewrite of Pacman-G1 by Aurelien Foret (the old monolithic Pacman-G1 is written by Judd Vinet). The packages are tar archives compressed using xz. |
| KaOS | An independent 64-bit only rolling-release Linux distribution inspired by Arch that features the latest KDE Plasma environment and the Qt toolkit. |
RPM-based
Red Hat Linux and SUSE Linux were the original major distributions that used the .rpm file format, which today is used in several package management systems. Both of these were later divided into commercial and community-supported distributions. Red Hat Linux was divided into a community-supported but Red Hat-sponsored distribution named Fedora, and a commercially supported distribution called Red Hat Enterprise Linux, whereas SUSE Linux was divided into openSUSE and SUSE Linux Enterprise.
Fedora-based
Fedora is a community supported distribution. It aims to provide the latest software while maintaining a completely Free Software system.
RHEL-based
Red Hat Enterprise Linux is a commercial open-source Linux distribution developed by Red Hat for the commercial market.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| AlmaLinux | A 100% community owned and governed alternative CentOS as a Red Hat Enterprise Linux rebuild. Governed by the AlmaLinux OS Foundation. |
| Asianux | A Linux distribution co-developed between Red Flag Software Co., Ltd., Miracle Linux Corp. and Haansoft, INC., focused on Chinese, Japanese and Korean support. |
| ClearOS | A Linux distribution designed for use in small and medium enterprises. |
| Fermi Linux LTS | Based on Scientific Linux. |
| Miracle Linux | A Linux distribution developed by Cybertrust Japan Co., Ltd., aims to be compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. |
| Oracle Linux | Supported by Oracle. Aims to be fully compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. |
| Red Flag Linux | A Linux distribution developed in China and optimized for the Chinese market. Based on Asianux. |
| Rocks Cluster Distribution | A Linux distribution for building a High-Performance Computing computer cluster, with a recent release supporting Cloud computing. It is based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux but with extensions to support large multi-node heterogeneous systems for clusters (HPC), Cloud, and Data Warehousing (in development). |
| Rocky Linux | A Linux distribution that is currently in development by the CentOS founder, Gregory Kurtzer, aims to be compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. |
| Scientific Linux | A discontinued Linux distribution co-developed by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), which aims to be compatible with and based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux. |
Other Fedora-based
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Amazon Linux 2 | Amazon Linux 2 is available as an Amazon Machine Image (AMI) for use on Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2). It is also available as a Docker container image and as a virtual machine image for use on Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM), Oracle VM VirtualBox, Microsoft Hyper-V, and VMware ESXi |
| Berry Linux | A medium-sized Fedora-based distribution that provides support in Japanese and English. |
| BLAG Linux and GNU | A completely free software distribution. |
| CentOS Stream | Community-supported Linux distribution originally based on RHEL and well suited for servers. Now sponsored by Red Hat. |
| EnGarde Secure Linux | Server-only Linux distribution designed to be secure. |
| Fuduntu | Designed to fit in somewhere between Fedora and Ubuntu. |
| Hanthana | Designed to cater the needs of Sri Lankan computer users who are unable to access Internet frequently, with many most-wanted applications built in. |
| Korora | Initially aimed at easy installation of a Gentoo system by using install scripts instead of manual configuration. Now based on Fedora. |
| Linpus Linux | Focused on the Chinese market, along with Linpus Lite focused on the netbook market. |
| Linux XP | Fedora-based shareware distribution designed to imitate the Windows environment using GNOME. |
| MeeGo | Built by Intel and Nokia, intended for mobile phones (mainly Nokia N9) and tablets. It is based on Moblin together with Maemo. |
| Moblin | Built around the Intel Atom processor; supplanted by Meego when Intel and (temporarily) Nokia combined activities |
| Network Security Toolkit | A live CD/DVD with security and networking tools to perform routine security and networking diagnostic and monitoring tasks. |
| Qubes OS | Focused on security for desktop users. Based on an "ancient" Fedora release which is said to be upgraded under YUM. |
| Red Star OS | A North Korean Linux distribution developed at the Korea Computer Center (KCC). It is offered only in a Korean language edition, localized with North Korean terminology and spelling. |
| Russian Fedora Remix | A remix of Fedora. |
| Sugar-on-a-Stick Linux | An educational operating system, originally designed for the One-Laptop-Per-Child project. |
| Yellow Dog Linux | For the PowerPC platform. |
openSUSE-based
openSUSE is a community-developed Linux distribution, sponsored by SUSE. It maintains a strict policy of ensuring all code in the standard installs will be from FOSS solutions, including Linux kernel Modules. SUSE's enterprise Linux products are all based on the codebase that comes out of the openSUSE project.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| GeckoLinux | A distribution with a focus on polish and out-of-the-box desktop usability. It is available in Static and Rolling versions, based on openSUSE Leap and Tumbleweed. |
| SUSE Linux Enterprise | Comes in two variations. SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop (previously branded Novell Linux Desktop) is a desktop-oriented Linux distribution supplied by SUSE and targeted at the enterprise market. SUSE Linux Enterprise Server is a server-oriented Linux distribution targeted at the business market. |
Mandriva-based
Mandriva Linux is open-source distribution (with exceptions), discontinued in 2011. The first release was named Mandrake Linux and based on Red Hat Linux (version 5.1) and KDE 1 in July 1998. It had since moved away from Red Hat's distribution and became a completely separate distribution. The name was changed to Mandriva, which included a number of original tools, mostly to ease system configuration. Mandriva Linux was the brainchild of Gaël Duval, who wanted to focus on ease of use for new users. The last stable version was in 2011. Mandriva's developers moved to Mageia and OpenMandriva.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Mageia | A community Linux distribution initially forked from Mandriva Linux in response to the discontinuation of free versions of Mandriva Linux. |
| ROSA Linux | A Russian distribution available in three different editions: ROSA Desktop Fresh, ROSA Enterprise Desktop and ROSA Enterprise Linux Server, with the latter two aiming at commercial users. Its desktop editions come bundled with proprietary software such as Adobe Flash Player, multimedia codecs and Steam. |
| OpenMandriva | A fork of Mandriva Linux by the OpenMandriva Association. |
Other RPM-based
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| ALT Linux | ALT Linux is a set of RPM-based operating systems built on top of the Linux kernel and Sisyphus packages repository. ALT Linux has been developed collectively by ALT Linux Team developers community and ALT Linux Ltd. |
| Caldera OpenLinux | A Linux distribution originally introduced by Caldera and later developed by its subsidiary Caldera Systems. It was later developed by Caldera International (which bought SCO and was renamed The SCO Group). The distribution is no longer produced. Last release: 3.1.1 – Jan. 30, 2002 |
| PCLinuxOS | A rolling release Linux Live CD distribution. Originally based on Mandrake 9.2. Later rebased on Mandriva 2007. |
| Red Hat Linux | Split into Fedora Core and Red Hat Enterprise Linux. The last official release of the unsplit distribution was Red Hat Linux 9 in March 2003. |
| SUSE Linux | Split into openSUSE and SUSE Linux Enterprise. |
| Think Blue Linux | A port of Linux to IBM S/390 (later, zSeries) mainframe computers, done by the Millenux subsidiary of German company Thinking Objects Software GmbH. Discontinued in 2006. |
| Turbolinux | Originally based on Red Hat Linux. |
| Vine Linux | A Japanese distribution originally based on Red Hat Linux. |
Gentoo-based
Gentoo is a distribution designed to have highly optimized and frequently updated software. Distributions based on Gentoo use the Portage package management system with emerge or one of the alternative package managers.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Calculate Linux | Calculate Linux is a family of distributions. |
| ChromeOS | Google's Linux-based operating system used on various Chromebooks, Chromeboxes and tablet computers. It is primarily Internet-based, launching each app within the Chrome browser. The OS features a user interface that looks very similar to Chrome instead of GNOME, Cinnamon, LXQt, Xfce, etc. |
| ChromiumOS | Free and open-source version of ChromeOS. |
| Clip OS | Created by ANSSI, the National Cybersecurity Agency of France and based on hardened Gentoo, it's aimed to secure sensitive information which meets the needs of the French Administration. |
| Container Linux | Linux distribution by CoreOS designed for clustered and containerized deployments with update subscription |
| Pentoo | Penetration-testing Live CD. |
| Sabayon Linux | Discontinued Italian made Linux distribution based on Funtoo. It followed the "out of the box" philosophy, aiming to give the user a wide number of applications ready to use and a self-configured operating system. Like Gentoo, Sabayon used the rolling release model; it used a customized version of Red Hat's Anaconda Installer and included a Media Center application. |
Slackware-based
Slackware is a highly customizable distribution that stresses ease of maintenance and reliability over cutting-edge software and automated tools. It is generally considered a distribution for advanced users.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Absolute Linux | A Light-weight Linux distribution based on Slackware |
| Austrumi Linux | Slackware-based Live CD distribution. Dormant as of 2023. |
| ... Vulnerable Linux | ... Vulnerable Linux (DVL) is a discontinued Linux distribution geared toward computer security students. |
| KateOS | A desktop distribution aimed at intermediate users. It uses Xfce as its default desktop environment. No longer in development. |
| MuLinux | Floppy-based Linux distribution with replaceable modules |
| NimbleX | Completely customizable through the NimbleX website. Now no longer producing new versions. |
| Platypux | A French Linux distribution of the Slackware family. |
| Porteus | A small and portable Linux distro focused on speed. |
| Salix OS | Originally a fork of Zenwalk, Salix is a complete Linux distribution fully backwards compatible with Slackware. It uses Xfce, KDE, LXDE, Fluxbox or Ratpoison as its default desktop environment. Salix OS is available as 32 and 64bit version, and also as Live CD versions. |
| Sentry Firewall | A firewall, server, or intrusion detection system distribution |
| Slackintosh | An unofficial port of Slackware to the PowerPC architecture |
| Slax | A live CD which aims to provide a complete desktop for general use for low-powered computers. Its download size is about 300 MB, almost the same as Puppy Linux's. It can run from RAM, from Live CD, USB or hard drive. Permanent installation of Slax is not recommended or supported; it is designed for "live" use only. Also can be run from a USB flash drive. Originally based on Slackware, then switched to Debian since v9.2.1. Returned to a Slackware base as of v15.0. |
| Topologilinux | Designed to run from within Microsoft Windows, Topologilinux can be installed without any changes to the user's hard disk. Outdated. |
| VectorLinux | A lightweight Linux distribution designed to be easy to use even for new users. Generally considered well-suited for older hardware. |
| Zenwalk | Originally a minimal version of Slackware, Zenwalk has evolved into a very different operating system; however, compatibility with Slackware is still maintained. |
| ZipSlack | A lightweight and portable version of Slackware. |
Android-based
Android is a mobile operating system bought and currently being developed by Google, based on a Google modified Linux kernel and designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Despite Andriod's core mobile focus, some laptop oriented derivatives like Android-x86 have come out over the years since its initial release.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| /e/ | /e/ (also known as /e/ OS and /e/OS, formerly Eelo) is an Android-based mobile operating system and associated online services. The operating system is a fork of LineageOS and Android. |
| Android-x86 | Android-x86 is an open source project which produces an unofficial port of the Android mobile operating system. It is developed by the Open Handset Alliance, and is made to run on devices powered by x86 processors, rather than RISC-based ARM chips. Respective mods CyanogenMod and LineageOS for x86 were and are available. |
| CalyxOS | CalyxOS is an operating system for smartphones based on Android with mostly free and open-source software. It is produced by the Calyx Institute as part of its mission to "defend online privacy, security and accessibility." |
| CopperheadOS | CopperheadOS is a mobile operating system for smartphones, based on the Android mobile platform. It adds privacy and security features to the official releases of the Android Open Source Project by Google. |
| CyanogenMod | A discontinued open-source operating system for mobile devices, based on the Android mobile platform. LineageOS is an actively maintained fork of CyanogenMod. |
| DivestOS | DivestOS is a free operating system (OS) based on the Android mobile platform. It is a soft fork of LineageOS that aims to increase security and privacy, and support older devices. As much as possible it removes proprietary Android components and includes only free-software. |
| Fire OS | An Android-based mobile operating system produced by Amazon for its Fire Phone and Kindle Fire range of tablets, Echo and Echo Dot, and other content delivery devices like Fire TV. |
| GrapheneOS | GrapheneOS (formerly Android Hardening or AndroidHardening) is an Android-based, open source, privacy and security-focused mobile operating system for selected Google Pixel smartphones. |
| LineageOS | A free and open-source operating system for smartphones, tablet computers, and set-top boxes, based on the Android mobile platform. |
| OmniROM | OmniROM is an open-source operating system for smartphones and tablet computers, based on the Android mobile platform. It involves a number of prominent developers from other projects, including the discontinued CyanogenMod operating system. |
| Paranoid Android | Paranoid Android is an open-source operating system for smartphones and tablet computers, based on the Android mobile platform. |
| Remix OS | Remix OS was a computer operating system for personal computers with x86 and ARM architectures that, prior to discontinuation of development, shipped with a number of 1st- and 3rd-party devices. Remix OS allowed PC users to run Android mobile apps on any compatible Intel-based PC. |
| Replicant | A free operating system (OS) based on the Android mobile platform that aims to replace all proprietary Android components with free-software counterparts. |
| Resurrection Remix OS | Resurrection Remix OS, abbreviated as RR, is a free and open-source operating system for smartphones and tablet computers, based on the Android mobile platform. |
Source-based
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| CRUX | CRUX is a lightweight, x86-64-optimized Linux distribution targeted at experienced users. The focus is "keep it simple", which is reflected in a simple tar.xz-based package system, BSD-style initscripts, and a relatively small collection of trimmed packages. Inspiration for Arch Linux. |
| GNU Guix System | A distribution built around the GNU Guix package manager, which provides purely functional package management with build automation, build isolation, easy system upgrades and rollbacks, and an emphasis on free software. Supports amongst others unprivileged package management and per-user profiles. |
| GoboLinux | A Linux distribution which redefines the file system hierarchy by installing everything belonging to one application in one folder under /Programs, and using symlinks from /System and its subfolders to point to the proper files. |
| NixOS | Declarative Linux distribution with atomic upgrades and rollbacks built on top of Nix package manager. Any package build is able to be freely edited and rebuilt from source. An official binary cache is also available for unmodified packages. |
| Sorcerer | Sorcerer was a source-based Linux distribution. The distribution downloads and compiles source code to install and update installed software. |
| Source Mage | A source code-based Linux distribution, descended from Sorcerer. |
| T2 SDE | A System Development Environment for building a Linux distribution. |
Other distributions
The following distributions have not been categorized under the preceding sections.
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| 4MLinux | a lightweight Linux distribution made for both 32-bit and 64-bit. When installing programs with the distribution, the distribution will retrieve the Windows version rather than the Linux version due to it coming pre-installed with Wine (A compatibility layer for Windows applications), and not having any package manager. |
| Alpine Linux | A security-oriented, lightweight Linux distribution based on musl and BusyBox. Has a derivative, postmarketOS, for mobile devices. |
| CHAOS | a small (6 MB) Linux distribution designed for creating ad hoc computer clusters. |
| Clear Linux OS | Intel's rolling-release Linux distribution, optimized for Intel's own processors for performance and security. |
| DD-WRT | Embedded firewall Linux distribution. |
| Dragora GNU/Linux-Libre | A Linux distribution written entirely from scratch and sharing some similarities with Slackware. Approved by the GNU Project as a free operating system. |
| ELinOS | Linux distribution for embedded systems by SYSGO. ELinOS focuses on industrial application and provides real-time extensions. |
| Firefox OS | A discontinued open-source operating system – made for smartphones, tablet computers and smart TVs – designed by Mozilla and external contributors. |
| fli4l | A router and firewall Linux distribution |
| Foresight Linux | A rolling release Linux distribution built around the Conary package manager. |
| GeeXboX | Live CD media center Linux distribution, mainly to play special-encoded video files (e.g.: .ogg, XVID) on home theater. |
| Jlime | Linux distribution for the HP Jornada 6xx and 7xx and NEC MobilePro 900(c) handhelds. |
| KaiOS | A mobile operating system based on Linux, developed by KaiOS Technologies, a US-based company. |
| Kwort | A distribution originally based on CRUX. Contrary to CRUX, the user does not need to compile a new kernel. |
| Lightweight Portable Security (LPS) | A CRUX-based distribution created by the United States Department of Defense that boots entirely in RAM |
| LinuxConsole | Independently developed lightweight distribution for old computers made with causal users and youth in mind. |
| Linux for PlayStation 2 | Sony Computer Entertainment Linux distribution released officially for the PlayStation 2 video game console. |
| Linux Router Project | Embedded networking appliance progenitor (defunct). |
| MeeGo | A discontinued Linux distribution hosted by the Linux Foundation, using source code from the operating systems Moblin (produced by Intel) and Maemo (produced by Nokia). |
| MkLinux | A legacy Linux distribution for PowerPC systems that runs the Linux kernel as a server on top of the Mach microkernel. |
| Nitix | Developed by Net Integration Technologies Inc., Nitix claims to be the first autonomic Linux kernel–based server operating system. |
| MontaVista Linux | Embedded distribution by MontaVista Software. |
| OpenWrt | A router and firewall Linux distribution, also other embedded systems, a lot of routing options via opkg available. |
| postmarketOS | A security-oriented, lightweight distribution for mobile devices. |
| Prevas Industrial Linux | Embedded systems customizable Linux distribution by Prevas. |
| Puppy Linux | A mini Linux distribution which runs well under low-end PCs – even under 32 MB RAM. |
| rPath | A distribution built around the Conary package manager. Discontinued. |
| SliTaz | With less than 40 MB a very small Live-Distribution, which uses 256 MB RAM (or with a special edition only 24 MB) for a complete GUI. |
| Smallfoot | Embedded, gaming and point-of-sale Linux distribution developed by the Santa Cruz Operation (SCO), formerly Caldera International and Caldera Systems – based on Caldera OpenLinux 3.x and 4.x binaries. |
| SmoothWall | A router and firewall Linux distribution. |
| paldo | Independently developed desktop operating system and package manager (upkg) with a rolling release format and standard Gnome environment. |
| Sailfish OS | A Linux-based operating system based on open source projects such as Mer and including a closed source UI. The project is being developed by the Finnish company Jolla. |
| Solus | Desktop Linux distribution offering Budgie, GNOME, MATE and KDE Plasma desktop environments, eopkg for package management. |
| Tinfoil Hat Linux | Bootable floppy Linux distribution focusing on extreme security. |
| Tiny Core Linux | A minimalist (around 10 MB) Linux system focusing on providing a base system with BusyBox, FLTK and other minimalist software. |
| Tizen | A Linux-based mobile operating system backed by the Linux Foundation but developed and used primarily by Samsung Electronics. |
| tomsrtbt | Root boot from floppy disk. Last update May 2002. |
| Void Linux | An independent Linux distribution based on the XBPS package management system and runit, without systemd dependency. |
Historical distributions
| Distribution | Description |
|---|---|
| MCC Interim Linux | Possibly the first Linux distribution, created by the Manchester Computing Centre in February 1992. |
| Softlanding Linux System | One of the earliest Linux distributions, developed from 1992 to 1994; Slackware was originally based on it. |
| Yggdrasil Linux/GNU/X | One of the oldest Linux distributions (December 1992), not updated since 1995. |
See also
In Spanish: Anexo:Distribuciones Linux para niños
- Comparison of Linux distributions
- Comparison of netbook-oriented Linux distributions
- DistroWatch
- Linux on PowerPC
- Linux on IBM Z
- List of live CDs
- List of router and firewall distributions
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List of Linux distributions Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.