Linux Distributions or Distros are operating systems with different software packages built on the Linux kernel. There are hundreds of distros built to serve one or more needs of its user. This diversity is what makes Linux the perfect tinkerer operating system.
📌Common Linux Distributions
- Ubuntu - A user-friendly and widely-adopted distribution backed by Canonical.
- Fedora - Red Hat’s community-driven distribution, known for cutting-edge features.
- Debian - A universal operating system and the base for many other distributions.
- openSUSE - Offers both stable (Leap) and rolling release (Tumbleweed) versions.
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) - Commercially-backed and enterprise-focused.
- Arch Linux - A rolling-release system aimed at experienced users.
- Pop!_OS - By System76, optimized for gaming and professional use.
- Manjaro - Arch based with a huge community.
- ArcoLinux - Arch based distro aimed at beginners.
📌Privacy Focused
- Tails - A live OS designed for anonymity and leaving no trace.
- Whonix - An OS focused on anonymity, privacy, and security.
- Qubes OS - Uses compartmentalization to provide security and privacy.
📌Hacking (Penetration Testing)
- Kali Linux - A distribution for penetration testing and ethical hacking.
- Parrot Security OS - Designed for penetration testing, forensics, and privacy.
- BlackArch Linux - An Arch Linux-based distribution for penetration testers.
📌Hobbyist
- Gentoo - A source-based distribution offering high configurability.
- Slackware - One of the oldest distributions, known for simplicity.
- LFS (Linux From Scratch) - A project that provides steps to build a custom Linux system.
📌Gaming
- SteamOS - A Debian-based OS developed by Valve for the Steam Machine gaming hardware.
📌Security Focused
- Alpine Linux - Lightweight and security-oriented.
- Hardened Linux - A project aimed at hardening the Linux environment.
📌Specialist
- Raspbian - Designed for the Raspberry Pi single-board computer.
- Clear Linux - Developed by Intel, optimized for performance and cloud use-cases.
- Tiny Core Linux - A minimalistic distribution known for its tiny size.