Linux Distributions: Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS and Others

The Linux operating system is an open-source operating system used by many servers, desktop computers, and mobile devices worldwide. For more information about what the Linux operating system is, its history, and basic features, you can refer to our article What is Linux? History and Basic Features. In this article, however, we will take a closer look at various distributions of Linux.

Linux Distributions: Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS, Debian, Arch Linux, Linux Mint, and Kali

Overview

Linux distributions are operating systems built around the Linux kernel. Each of these systems caters to a specific audience and offers features aligned with the needs of users.

Ubuntu

History and Development

Ubuntu was initiated in 2004 as a derivative of the Debian distribution.

Usage and Popularity

Ubuntu is quite popular among desktop users due to its user-friendly interface.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Ubuntu offers a broad software repository and community support, although it can sometimes use system resources intensively.

Community and Support Resources

The Ubuntu community assists users through forums and wiki pages.

Highlighted Features and Tools

The Ubuntu Software Center facilitates easy installation of software for users.

Fedora

History and Development

Fedora is a successor to Red Hat Linux and is sponsored by Red Hat.

Usage and Popularity

Fedora is preferred especially by developers and system administrators.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Fedora offers up-to-date software but can be less stable.

Community and Support Resources

The Fedora Project Wiki and Ask Fedora platforms provide support to users.

Highlighted Features and Tools

The DNF package manager makes software management in Fedora simple and secure.

CentOS

History and Development

CentOS is a clone of the commercial Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) distribution.

Usage and Popularity

CentOS is commonly used in server environments and enjoys high popularity in the corporate world.

Advantages and Disadvantages

CentOS offers the reliability of RHEL for free, but the packages can be somewhat outdated.

Community and Support Resources

The CentOS forums allow users to find solutions to their problems.

Highlighted Features and Tools

The YUM package manager facilitates easy software management.

Debian

History and Development

Debian was created in 1993 by Ian Murdock. The Debian Project is community-managed.

Usage and Popularity

Used in a range of systems from servers to desktop computers; it is known for its stability.

Advantages and Disadvantages

It offers a stable and reliable system but sometimes does not offer the very latest software promptly.

Community and Support Resources

The Debian Wiki and forums assist users.

Highlighted Features and Tools

The APT package management system greatly simplifies software installation and management.

Arch Linux

History and Development

Arch Linux is a project initiated by Judd Vinet in 2002, offering users complete customization freedom.

Usage and Popularity

It is generally preferred by experienced Linux users.

Advantages and Disadvantages

It offers a fully customizable structure but can be a bit complicated for beginners.

Community and Support Resources

The Arch Wiki provides detailed information and help to users.

Highlighted Features and Tools

The pacman package manager allows for simple and fast software management.

Linux Mint

History and Development

Linux Mint was initiated by Clement Lefebvre in 2006, built on Ubuntu.

Usage and Popularity

It is ideal for beginners and desktop users, offering a user-friendly interface.

Advantages and Disadvantages

It offers easy usage but can sometimes lag behind Ubuntu in terms of updates.

Community and Support Resources

Community forums and blogs assist users.

Highlighted Features and Tools

The Cinnamon desktop environment provides a modern and user-friendly experience.

Kali Linux

History and Development

Kali Linux was initiated by Offensive Security in 2013, built on Debian.

Usage and Popularity

It is preferred by security experts and network administrators; used in security research.

Advantages and Disadvantages

It offers powerful security tools but is not ideal for daily use.

Community and Support Resources

The Kali Linux forums and wiki guide users.

Highlighted Features and Tools

It possesses extensive security and penetration testing tools.

Conclusion

Linux distributions offer different features and tools according to various user needs. Whether you are a developer, a system administrator, or a daily computer user, you can find a distribution in the Linux world that meets your needs. When choosing one of these distributions, it is important to consider factors such as the user base, support resources, and the features offered by the distribution.