You all must have heard about Linux. The free opensource operating systems used everywhere around the world, anywhere some scientific work is being performed.
But do you understand what Linux is?
Linux is the family of operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991, by the legendary Linus Torvalds. The Linux in itself was another name for rebellion against the concealed world, being the open-source software it supports the philosophy of
let those who deserve, have!!
northner
So basically what LINUX is, it’s just a kernel developed by millions of volunteers around the globe and maintained and managed by the original creator Linus Torvalds.
Now the operating systems that you use like
- Ubuntu
- Kali
- Parrot
- Fedora
- Debian
- Manjaro
- Arch
- Backtrack
- Mint, etc. etc.
These all are developed using Linux at their HEART hence inheriting the name Linux OS.
You can know more about the story of Linux here
and
About various Linux Distributions here
But do you really understand how vast is the ocean of Linux distros?
To understand this let’s characterize Linux distributions according to their parent Distro or according to the package management system they are based upon.
But first, what is a package manager?
A package manager or package-management system is a collection of software tools that automates the process of installing, upgrading, configuring, and removing computer programs for a computer’s operating system in a consistent manner.
A package manager deals with packages, distributions of software and data in archive files. Packages contain metadata, such as the software’s name, description of its purpose, version number, vendor, checksum (preferably a cryptographic hash function), and a list of dependencies necessary for the software to run properly. Upon installation, metadata is stored in a local package database. Package managers typically maintain a database of software dependencies and version information to prevent software mismatches and missing prerequisites. They work closely with software repositories, binary repository managers, and app stores.
Package managers are designed to eliminate the need for manual installs and updates. This can be particularly useful for large enterprises whose operating systems are based on Linux and other Unix-like systems, typically consisting of hundreds or even tens of thousands of distinct software packages
Majorly Linux distributions are categorised using two different filesystems.
.deb based and .rpm based
but first!!
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RPM-based
Red Hat Linux and SUSE Linux were the original major distributions that used the .rpm file format, which is today 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 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.
Debian-based
Debian 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-get or synaptic).
Debian (Testing) based
| Distribution |
|---|
| BackTrack |
| Kali Linux |
| Parsix |
| PureOS |
| Astra Linux |
| Ubuntu |
Ubuntu-based
Ubuntu is a distribution based on Debian, designed to have regular releases, a consistent user experience and commercial support on both desktops and servers.
Official distributions
These Ubuntu variants 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.
Debian (Stable) based
and this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Here in the bottom graphic, you can see a detailed description of various Linux distributions according to the timeline !!
Such is the vastness of our beloved Operating Systems!
Keep Exploring!!
A technology enthusiast who loves to create and break things. Love to work on Linux, technology, and Computers. I am a CyberSecurity aficionado, and wannabe wildlife Photographer constantly learning and experiencing new things.