Linux Distributions List- A Complete Guide


Linux Distributions List- A Complete Guide

Recipe ID: hsts-r55


As Linux popularity grows, IT professionals will explore different Linux distributions and operating systems. Indeed, many Linux distributions are optimized to handle special tasks very efficiently. Thus, in this article, we cover all Linux distribution lists that are currently very popular.

List of Linux Distributions for Special Purpose Tasks

The list of Linux distributions provided in this article is categorized based on special purposes like education, Linux Desktop OS, etc. Each Linux distribution is accompanied by a brief description. We do our best to update the list of Linux distributions periodically and hope to include all Linux distributions. So feel free to suggest any changes to this distribution list by emailing us.


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Linux Distributions List- Linux Operating Systems

The following Linux distributions have usually been around for a while and are well-established. They generally support several architectures and are translated into multiple languages. Some come from companies that supply service and support contracts for their products, others are community projects.

  1. Android
    http://www.android.com/
    Android is Linux without any GNU. Google backs Android, which can be found in the wild in phones, tablets and other devices. These devices usually contain proprietary software, and some of the available apps are proprietary as well. See the Android Open Source Project for the open source parts. Android was first announced November 5, 2007. Android 1.5 (Cupcake) was released April 30, 2009. Android 4.4 (KitKat) was released October 31, 2013. Android 5.1 (Lolipop) was announced March 9, 2015. Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) was released September 2015. Android 7.1.2 (Nougat) was released April 3, 2017. Android 8.1 (Oreo) was released December 5, 2017. Android 9 (Pie) was released August 6, 2018. Android Q beta 6 was released August 7, 2019.
  2. Debian GNU/Linux
    http://www.debian.org/
    The Debian Project is one of the oldest distributions, dating back to 1993, and is currently the largest volunteer-based distribution provider. Debian, the "universal operating system", has been translated into many languages; works on many hardware platforms; has a large repository with a wide variety of packages; includes experimental kernel variants for kfreebsd and the GNU Hurd; and has many derivatives. Debian Stable releases when ready, not on any fixed schedule. Stable releases are supported for about 3 years. The Debian LTS team extends the lifetime of stable releases by providing security updates for a reduced set of packages after the Debian security team ends official support. The Debian testing branch (currently 11.0 "bullseye") is where the next stable release is prepared; packages are more current than stable while (usually) providing a stable desktop. The unstable branch (sid) is more bleeding edge, while the experimental branch contains packages that aren't yet ready for sid. Debian 12 will be named "bookworm". Debian 8.0 "jessie" was released April 25, 2015. The eleventh and final "jessie" point release, version 8.11, was released June 23, 2018. The LTS team will continue to maintain jessie until June 30, 2020. Debian 9.0 "stretch" was released June 17, 2017. The ninth "stretch" point release, Debian 9.9, was released April 27, 2019. Debian 10.0 "buster" was released July 6, 2019.
  3. Fedora
    http://fedoraproject.org/
    The Fedora Project is Red Hat's community distribution. It is intended to be a fast-paced distribution for those that like to stay on the leading edge of technology. It is also a test-bed for Red Hat's Enterprise Linux products. The Fedora contains all the packages necessary to run a functional desktop or small server. The first Fedora Core release was dated November 5, 2003. Fedora strives for a new release every 6 months and releases will be supported for about 13 months. Fedora 21 for aarch64 was released December 17, 2014. Fedora 21 for Power was released December 17, 2014. Fedora 21 for IBM System z was released December 18, 2014. Fedora 22 for aarch64 was released May 26, 2015. Fedora 23 for aarch64 and Power were released November 3, 2015. Fedora 23 for z Systems was released November 10, 2015.
    Still supported: Fedora 29 (released October 30, 2018) and Fedora 30 (released April 30, 2019).
  4. openSUSE
    http://opensuse.org/
    The openSUSE community distribution is supported by SUSE. openSUSE was opened for community development with the release of SUSE Linux 10.0, dated October 6, 2005. openSUSE used to offer a new release every 8 months with 18 months of support, but now offers two options. Tumbleweed uses a rolling release model that updates to the latest stable software, with frequent snapshots. The more conservative openSUSE Leap is based on core SUSE Linux Enterprise (SLE) components with more up-to-date applications. Its releases follow SLE service packs, with the initial release (42.1) based on SLE 12 SP1. Leap 42.1 was was released November 4, 2015 and reached eol May 16, 2017. openSUSE Leap 15 (with SLE 15 components) was released May 25, 2018. Leap 15.1 was released May 22, 2019.
  5. Red Hat Enterprise Linux
    http://www.redhat.com/
    Red Hat, Inc. provides one of the the best known Linux distributions in the world. In 2003 the company announced its decision to drop its popular Red Hat Linux in order to concentrate on the Red Hat Enterprise Linux line. The Fedora Project (see above) has replaced the Red Hat Linux line for the home user or small business. Red Hat Linux 9 was the last release in the Red Hat Linux series. It was released April 7, 2003 and was supported until May 1, 2004. Red Hat Enterprise Linux comes with service and support contracts for those Red Hat customers who require a stable, supported system. There are a number of other Red Hat products for cloud environments. Red Hat was acquired by IBM in July 2019, however no changes are planned for RHEL products and services, or for Fedora and CentOS. Supported versions: RHEL 6 was released November 10, 2010; now at update 6.10, released June 10, 2018. RHEL 7 was released June 10, 2014; now at update 7.7, released August 6, 2019. RHEL 8 was released May 7, 2019. 8.1 beta was released July 24, 2019.
  6. Slackware Linux
    http://www.slackware.com/
    Slackware Documentation Project
    The Slackware project is headed by Patrick J. Volkerding, with a cast of volunteers and a loyal following. It is the oldest active Linux distribution with the first release dated July 16, 1993. For a very long time the official Slackware project only supported x86 platforms, however others have made ports to other platforms. In 2009 the x86_64 port and the ARM port were offically accepted into Slackware. Slackware 13.37 was released April 27, 2011. Slackware 14.0 was released September 26, 2012. The ARM port of Slackware 14.0 was released September 28, 2012. Slackware 14.1 was released November 7, 2013. Slackware 14.2 was released July 1, 2016.
  7. SUSE Linux
    http://www.suse.com/
    Nuremberg based SUSE Linux AG is one of the older Linux distribution providers. SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) supports x86, x86-64, IPF (ia64), POWER (32 & 64bit, ppc & ppc64) and Mainframes (32 & 64bit, s390 & s390x). SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) and SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop (SLED) are available for enterprise customers. SLES/SLED 10 became generally available July 17, 2006. Pack 4, released April 12, 2011. SUSE Linux Enterprise Real Time 10 was released November 27, 2007. SUSE Linux Enterprise 11 (SLES/SLED/JeOS) was released February 28, 2009, generally available March 24, 2009. SLE 11 Service Pack 4 was released July 15, 2015. SLE 12 was released October 27, 2014. SLE 12 SP4 was released December 15, 2018. SLE 15 was released June 25, 2018. SLE 15 SP1 was released June 2, 2019.
  8. Ubuntu
    http://www.ubuntu.com/
    Kubuntu, Edubuntu, Xubuntu, Mythbuntu, Ubuntu Studio, Lubuntu, Ubuntu Kylin, Ubuntu MATE, and Ubuntu Budgie.
    Ubuntu is supported by Canonical Ltd. The offical 'flavors' listed above use the Ubuntu repositories and infrastructure, but are supported by the community. Ubuntu takes a snapshot of Debian unstable and then creates a small fork, recompiling and stabilizing the code to get a final stable release. Ubuntu releases happen every 6 months, in April and October. Ubuntu comes with the GNOME desktop, Kubuntu with the KDE Plasma desktop, Xubuntu features XFCE, Edubuntu comes with educational packages, Ubuntu Studio integrates packages for multimedia creation, Mythbuntu incorporates the MythTV packages, Lubuntu comes with the LXQt desktop environment, Ubuntu Kylin has been localized and customized for users in China, Ubuntu MATE features the MATE desktop, and Ubuntu Budgie features the Budgie desktop.
    The first Ubuntu release was 4.10 Preview "Warty Warthog", released September 15, 2004. Ubuntu LTS releases are supported for 5 years. Flavors usually have shorter LTS support windows. Non-LTS releases are supported for 9 months. 19.10 "Eoan Ermine" is open for development.
    Supported versions: 16.04 LTS "Xenial Xerus", 18.04 LTS "Bionic Beaver", and 19.04 "Disco Dingo". 16.04.6 LTS was released February 28, 2019. 18.04.3 LTS was released August 8, 2019. 19.04 was released April 18, 2019.
  9. Arch Linux
    http://www.archlinux.org/
    Arch Linux is a lightweight and flexible distribution that tries to Keep It Simple. It contains the latest stable versions of software. Packages are in .tar.gz format and are tracked by the Pacman package manager, which is designed to allow easy package upgrades. There are few releases in the traditional meaning. A steady stream of package updates are available. New installion media does come out occasionally. The inital version, 0.1, was released March 11, 2002. x86_64 support was added in April 2006. The numbering scheme for Arch installtion media was changed to yyyy.mm format with the August 2009 release. The Arch Linux 2012.10.06 install media boots with systemd. Arch Linux 2017.05.01 is out.
  10. CentOS
    http://www.centos.org/
    CentOS, the Community ENTerprise Operating System, is an Enterprise-class Linux Distribution derived from Red Hat Enterprise Linux sources. Red Hat is a sponsor of CentOS. CentOS aims to be 100% binary compatible. (CentOS mainly changes packages to remove upstream vendor branding and artwork.) There are also Special Interest Groups (SIGs) extending CentOS in various ways. This project dates back to late 2003. CentOS 6.0 was released July 11, 2011. CentOS 6.10 was released July 3, 2018. CentOS 7.0-1406 was released July 7, 2014. CentOS 7.6-1810 was released December 3, 2018.
  11. Gentoo Linux
    http://www.gentoo.org/
    Gentoo Linux is a source-based distribution that can be optimized and customized for just about any application or need. Gentoo offers extreme performance, configurability and a top-notch user and developer community. Users keep their systems up-to-date using Portage, which is based on BSD Ports. Gentoo is a meta-distribution with a large number of packages available (nearly 11,000 as of April 2006). Gentoo Linux 2005.1 was available for Alpha, AMD64, PPC, PPC64, SPARC, X86, IA64 and SPARC32. Gentoo Ten LiveDVD 10.1 was released October 23, 2009. Gentoo Linux LiveDVD 11.0 was released March 8, 2011. Gentoo 11.2 was released August 7, 2011. Gentoo LiveDVD 12.1 was released April 1, 2012. Gentoo Linux 20160514 LiveDVD - Choice Edition - is out.
  12. KNOPPIX
    http://www.knopper.net/knoppix/index-en.html
    German: http://www.knopper.net/knoppix/
    http://www.knoppix.net/
    This German distribution is the original, Debian-based live CD, spawning dozens (hundreds?) of remasters and customized live CD distributions. Take your KNOPPIX CD/DVD/USB with you when you're on the road and run Linux anywhere. KNOPPIX is a complete GNU/Linux installation which runs from CD/DVD/USB, with automatic hardware detection and configuration for many graphics and sound cards, SCSI devices, and peripherals. KNOPPIX first showed up on May 29, 2002. KNOPPIX 5.0 Live DVD was released for CeBIT 2006. KNOPPIX 6.0 featured the LXDE desktop and the ADRIANE audio desktop. KNOPPIX 6.7.1 with ADRIANE 1.4 was released September 17, 2011. KNOPPIX 7.0.5, the last in the 7.0 series, was released December 22, 2012. KNOPPIX 7.6.0 / ADRIANE 1.7 was released November 24, 2015. KNOPPIX 7.7.1 was released October 28, 2016. KNOPPIX 8.6.0 was released August 17, 2019.
  13. Linux Mint
    http://linuxmint.com/
    Linux Mint aims to produce an elegant, up to date and comfortable GNU/Linux desktop based on Ubuntu. It started out as a customized version of Ubuntu, but the project now develops many of its own tools and provides alternative desktops (MATE and Cinnamon). It is compatible with Ubuntu repositories. Linux Mint 5 "Elyssa" was released June 8, 2008 and was supported until April 25, 2011. The Mint project decided to track only Ubuntu LTS releases, starting with v17 "Qiana". Official releases come with MATE or Cinnamon and are joined by Xfce and KDE community editions.
    Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) follows Debian directly, not Ubuntu. Early releases were based on Debian testing, later tracking Debian stable. LMDE 201009 was released September 7, 2010. Debian 9 "stretch"-based LMDE 3 "Cindy" Cinnamon was released August 31, 2018.
    The Ubuntu 16.04-based Linux Mint 18.x series will be supported until 2021. The series includes 18 "Sarah" (released June 30, 2016), 18.1 "Serena" (released December 16, 2016), 18.2 "Sonya" (released July 2, 2017), and 18.3 "Sylvia" (released November 27, 2017). The Ubuntu 18.04-based Linux Mint 19.x series will be supported until 2023. The series includes 19 "Tara" (released June 29, 2018), 19.1 "Tessa" (released December 19, 2018), and 19.2 "Tina" (released August 2, 2019).
  14. Mageia
    http://mageia.org/
    Mageia is a community fork of Mandriva created by a large group of former Mandriva employees, Cooker contributors and users' communities. The project was first announced September 18, 2010 with plans to set up a not-for-profit organization to be managed by a board of community members. Mageia released its first alpha February 15, 2011. Mageia 1 was released June 1, 2011. Mageia 6.1 was released October 5, 2018. Mageia 7 was released July 1, 2019. Mageia 7.1 was released July 16, 2019 to address an issue with the AMD Ryzen 3000 series of CPU's.
  15. Oracle Linux
    http://www.oracle.com/us/technologies/linux/overview/
    Oracle's Unbreakable Linux campaign was launched in June 2002. It started as a support program for Red Hat Enterprise Linux for Oracle customers. It evolved into an enterprise distribution with source and binary compatibility with its upstream parent. The Oracle "Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel" was launched in September 2010. Oracle Enterprise Linux 5.11 was released September 25, 2014. Oracle Linux 6 was released February 11, 2011. Oracle Linux 6.10 was released June 26, 2018. Oracle Linux 7 was released July 23, 2014. Oracle Linux 7.6 was released November 7, 2018. Oracle Linux 8 was released July 18, 2019.
  16. Scientific Linux
    http://www.scientificlinux.org/
    Scientific Linux is sponsored by Fermilab. The project rebuilds Red Hat Enterprise Linux source and adds a handful of enhancements aimed at physics research. Other scientific laboratories and universities in the United States, Switzerland, and other countries were involved in this project. The first Scientific Linux release was 3.0.1, released May 10, 2004. Scientific Linux was discontinued as of April 22, 2019. Instead, Fermilab will collaborate with CERN and other labs to help make CentOS a better platform for high-energy physics computing. Fermilab will continue to support Scientific Linux 6 and 7 through the remainder of their respective lifecycles. Scientific Linux 6.10 was released July 10, 2018 and 7.7 was released August 26, 2019.

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Linux Distributions List- Non-Technical Desktop

These are designed to be user-friendly, easy to install distributions with plenty of desktop applications.

  1. AIMS Desktop
    https://desktop.aims.ac.za/
    AIMS Desktop is a Debian derivative offering a collection of software that allows you to do mathematics and science on your computer easily and efficiently. It is maintained by AIMS (The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences) in South Africa. The current version was 2017.1, based on Debian 9.0 "stretch", when this entry was added, June 13, 2017.
  2. AriOS
    http://arioslinux.org/
    AriOS is based on Ubuntu and includes many extra applications, multimedia codecs, flash and java plugins, many tweaks and a unique look and feel. AriOS is not just Ubuntu+extra packages. It has been carefully designed to help you get productive instantly instead of spending a lot of hours configuring your system. AriOS could be translated into "The Operating System from the Ancient Persia". AriOS 3.0 is based on Ubuntu 11.04 and comes with a customized GNOME 2 desktop. AriOS 3.0 was released July 2, 2011. AriOS 4.0, released October 6, 2012, was based on Ubuntu 12.04 LTS and GNOME shell.
  3. Bella OS
    http://www.bellaos.org/
    http://sourceforge.net/projects/bellaos/
    Bella OS strives to be beautiful and friendly. It is based on Xubuntu and Debian. Bella OS joined the list with the release of v2.2 on April 9, 2015.
  4. Black Lab Linux
    http://www.blacklablinux.org/
    http://www.pc-opensystems.com/
    Black Lab Linux was known as OS/4 OpenLinux, which was a descendant of the PC/OS project. Black Lab Linux, a product of Black Lab Sofware, is a custom Linux distribution compatible with Ubuntu and Debian Linux. It aims for ease of use and user friendliness. The first version of PC/OS was a remix of Ubuntu 8.04.1 with extra packages. The first OS4 release was v12.5, dated July 10, 2012. The final OS/4 releases were OpenLinux 14.1 and Enterprise Linux 4.1.6, dated November 2, 2013. Black Lab and Black Lab Enterprise Linux 4.1.8 were released November 26, 2013. Black Lab Professional Desktop 6.0 SR3 was released January 31, 2015. Black Lab Linux MATE 6.1 was released February 16, 2015. Black Lab Linux 6.5 SR1 was released May 11, 2015. Black Lab Enterprise Desktop 6 SR4 was released June 1, 2015. Black Lab Linux GNOME 2015.6 was released June 15, 2015 and will be supported until 2020. Black Lab Linux 7.7 was released September 18, 2016 and will be supported until April 2019. Black Lab Linux 8.0 was released November 10, 2016. Black Lab Enterprise Linux 8.0 SP1 was released October 23, 2016. Black Lab Enterprise Linux 11.5 was released November 27, 2017.
  5. Calculate Linux
    http://www.calculate-linux.org/
    Calculate Linux is an open project, supported by the Calculate Pack company, which promotes using Linux everywhere. The project gives free and easy access to all the opportunities of Gentoo Linux. Calculate Linux was started May 29, 2007. Exactly two years later Calculate Linux Desktop 9.6 KDE was released. Other editions included XFCE Desktop and Directory Server. Calculate Linux From Scratch 9.8 was released August 12, 2009. Calculate Linux 14.16.2 was released June 5, 2015. Calculate Linux 14.16.2 MATE was released July 21, 2015. Calculate Linux 15.17 was released May 20, 2016. Calculate Linux 17.12.2 was released February 22, 2018. Calculate Linux 18 was released October 7, 2018. Calculate Linux Desktop 18 LXQt was released November 29, 2018. Calculate Linux 18.12 was released December 29, 2018.
  6. Chakra
    http://chakraos.org/
    http://chakra.sourceforge.net/
    Chakra aims to be a fast, user-friendly and powerful Live CD and/or small distribution that utilizes KDE applications and the Plasma desktop. A special repository for well known GTK applications is available. Chakra was initially based on Arch Linux, but evolved into an independent effort. Chakra uses what they call a half-rolling release model where new stable versions of packages are updated as soon as possible, on top of a stable core. The distribution provides unique GUI tools and has a small but strong and diverse community. Chakra joined the list on September 30, 2009, with the third alpha release of the Chakra LiveCD. The Chakra Project split from its Arch roots with the development release of Phoix. Chakra 0.3.2 was released January 30, 2011. Chakra 2017.10 "Goedel" was released October 7, 2017. Chakra 2019.03 "Hawking" RC4 was released March 3, 2019.
  7. Chapeau
    http://chapeaulinux.org/
    Chapeau is a Fedora remix that aims to be a high-performance, cutting-edge operating system for 64bit PCs, that is also easy to use by new and advanced users. Chapeau ships with multimedia codecs, Flash, anti-virus software, data recovery tools, WINE, PlayOnLinux and Steam. In addition, third-party software repositories are enabled by default. Chapeau 21.2.1 was released April 11, 2015. Chapeau 22 "Indurain" was released June 13, 2015. Chapeau 23 "Armstrong" was released December 8, 2015. Chapeau 24 was released September 28, 2016.
  8. ComFusion
    http://comfusion.softonic.com/linux
    ComFusion (formerly Uberyl) is an Ubuntu-based desktop with Compiz-Fusion. It's aimed at Spanish-speaking users coming from other operating systems. The GNOME, LXDE, and OpenBox desktops are available. ComFusion 3 was released February 16, 2011. ComFusion 4.1 was released December 8, 2012.
  9. Cr OS Linux
    http://getchrome.eu/
    Cr OS Linux is a free operating system built around the revolutionary Chromium browser. The aim of this project is to provide a lightweight Linux distribution for the best web browsing experience on any x86 PC, notebook or Chromebook. Version 1.7.932 RC (released November 16, 2011) is based on openSUSE with the GNOME desktop and the Google Chrome 17 web browser. It was renamed Cr OS in September 2012. Cr OS Linux 2.4.1290, released December 10, 2012, features the Cinnamon desktop.
  10. Cub Linux
    https://cublinux.com/
    http://chromixium.org/
    Chromixium is a project to recreate the functionality, look and feel of Google’s Chrome OS on a conventional desktop. Chromixium is based on a custom 32 bit Ubuntu 14.04 build. It's built around the Chromium web browser, but additional applications may be included from the Ubuntu repositories. Chromixium 1.0 was released April 29, 2015. Chromixium 1.5 was released July 18, 2015. Chromixium changed its name to Cub Linux (Chromium + Ubuntu), announced January 17, 2016. The first Cub Linux release is expected to be released in May 2016.
  11. elementary OS
    https://elementary.io
    elementary OS is designed to be a simple, easy-to-use distribution using the best of free/open source software, with only one application per task. The project aims to improve the applications that they use. elementary OS Jupiter was released April 1, 2011. elementary OS Luna was released August 10, 2013. elementary OS Freya 0.3.2 was released December 9, 2015. elementary OS Loki 0.4.1 was released May 17, 2017. elementary OS Juno 5.0 was released October 16, 2018.
  12. ELX, Everyone's Linux
    http://www.elxlinux.com/
    ELX provides a commericial family of products, including BizDesktop, PowerDesk, Gateway Server, PowerServer, and more. BizDesktop 4.0 was based on kernel 2.4.20 and contained a variety of applications suitable for business and home usage. As of December 19, 2014 available products included PowerDesktop 6 Beta, BizDesktop 5, Gateway Server 3.0, and an unversioned Wifi-Gateway Server.
  13. EndeavourOS
    https://endeavouros.com/
    EndeavourOS aims to be an easier way to install Arch Linux. It was created by the Antergos community after Antergos was discontinued in May 2019. EndeavourOS launched July 15, 2019.
  14. Endless OS
    https://endlessos.com/
    Endless is designed to be useful offline as well as online. It comes with many apps and tools that don't require an internet connection, including over 50,000 Wikipedia articles. It is based on Debian and features the GNOME desktop. The current version of Endless OS was 2.6.4 when this entry was added June 15, 2016. Endless OS 3.6.0 was released June 10, 2019.
  15. feren OS
    http://ferenos.weebly.com/
    Feren OS offers customisation, applications, and much more in one package. It uses a Linux Mint/Cinnamon base. feren OS 2017.0 was released May 1, 2017. feren OS announced a transition to a rolling-release model June 11, 2017. Snapshots are released every 3 months. Feren OS 2019.07 was released July 13, 2019.
  16. GeckoLinux
    http://geckolinux.github.io/
    GeckoLinux is a Linux spin based on the openSUSE distribution, with a focus on polish and out-of-the-box usability on the desktop. Various editions have been released, including GNOME, Cinnamon, XFCE, Budgie, and BareBones (with the OpenBox window managaer). The inaugual releases were based on openSUSE Leap 42.1 and began with version number 421 followed by a date in yymmdd format. The first BareBones edition was numbered 421.151205.0. Version 421.160614.0 was released with several desktop editions. GeckoLinux Rolling 999.161031.0 became available November 3, 2016. GeckoLinux 150.180607 [static] and 999.180607 [rolling] were released in June 2018.
  17. Granular Linux
    http://linux.granularproject.org/
    http://www.granularproject.org/
    Granular is a Linux operating system that is easy to use, user-friendly and filled with lots of fun. Designed for both newbies and experienced Linux users, Granular is based on PCLinuxOS and features easy switching between the KDE and XFCE desktop environments. Granular 0.90, code-named Esto Vello, was released July 3, 2007. Granular FunWorks 2007 was released October 7, 2007. Granular 1.0 was released January 20, 2009.
  18. Hanthana Linux
    http://hanthana.org/
    Hanthana is a Fedora remix suitable for desktop and laptop users. It comes as a live CD and may be installed to a hard drive. It comes with additional software including multimedia players and codecs by default. The first release was dated Septmeber 19, 2009. Hanthana joined the list with the release of HL17, September 16, 2012. Hanthana 17 LiveCD with LXDE was released September 30, 2012. The 64bit edition was released October 13, 2012. Hanthana Linux 21 (Sinharaja) was released April 15, 2015.
  19. JULinux
    http://www.JustUseLinux.com/
    Just Use Linux or JULinux is an Ubuntu based distribution aimed at Windows and Mac users. JULinuXP has an interface similar to Windows 98, 2000, XP, and 7 while JULinOX OS is very similar to Mac OS X. Both versions feature the MATE desktop. JULinux joined the list May 29, 2013. JULinux 10 was released August 4, 2014.
  20. Kannolo
    https://sourceforge.net/projects/kannolo/
    Kannolo is an installable graphical Fedora Remix without GTK+, based on the KDE Plasma Desktop workspace and the Calamares installer. Kannolo does not include software that requires GTK+ (e.g. Firefox, Anaconda, firewall-config, ABRT). It features KDE or Qt software (e. g. QupZilla, Calamares, UFW-KDE, DrKonqi) instead. SELinux is disabled by default because there is no Qt/KDE troubleshooting application for it. GTK+ and GTK+ applications are available from the upstream distribution’s online repositories, enabled by default. Kannolo 25 and Kannolo 24 were released December 23, 2016.
  21. Linux Lite
    https://www.linuxliteos.com/
    http://sourceforge.net/projects/linuxlite
    Linux Lite is an Ubuntu based system that aims to be simple for anyone to use. Linux Lite's first release was v1.0.0, dated October 23, 2012. Linux Lite 1.0.8 Final was released January 16, 2014. Linux Lite 2.8 was released January 31, 2016. Linux Lite 3.0 was released May 31, 2016. Linux Lite 3.2 was released October 31, 2016. Linux Lite 3.8 was released January 31, 2018. Linux Lite 4.0 was released May 31, 2018. Linux Lite 4.2 was released October 31, 2018. Linux Lite 4.4 was released March 31, 2019. Linux Lite 4.6 RC1 was released July 29, 2019.
  22. Linvo GNU/Linux
    http://www.linvo.org/
    Linvo is a Slackware derived distribution that aims to be a multi-purpose, flexible and easy-to-use. Packages are available from both the Slackware and the Linvo repositories. The project was started in 2009. Linvo 2010.12, released December 30, 2010, features the GNOME 2.32 desktop. Linvo 2010.12.6, the last planned maintenance release for the 2010.6 series, was released July 14, 2011.
  23. Liquid Lemur Linux
    http://liquidlemurlinux.org/
    Liquid Lemur Linux is a Debian-based distribution. The original edition features Window Maker, along with custom tools, scripts, applications, and original artwork. They also have a hybrid desktop using Window Maker and Xfce. Liquid Lemer joined the list with the release of v2.0 Alpha 2, dated August 23, 2015. Liquid Lemur Linux 2.0 Alpha 3 was released September 20, 2015.
  24. Luninux OS
    http://luninuxos.com/
    Luninux OS is an Ubuntu based distribution with GNOME Shell instead of Ubuntu's Unity desktop. Luninux joined the list with the release of 12.0 LTS "Purple Possum", dated July 24, 2012. Luninux 12.10 was released December 10, 2012. Luninux OS 14.00 was released June 22, 2014.
  25. LXLE
    http://lxle.net/
    LXLE is based on Lubuntu which is an Ubuntu OS using the LXDE desktop enviroment. It is designed to be a drop-in and go OS, primarily for aging computers. Its intention is to be able to install it on any computer and be relatively done after install. LXLE follows the same LTS schedule as Ubuntu. In short, LXLE is an eclectic respin of Lubuntu with its own user support. LXLE 12.04.4 was released February 8, 2014. LXLE 14.04 was released June 13, 2014. LXLE 14.04.2 and 12.04.5 were released April 3, 2015. LXLE LS is aimed at small to micro businesses and includes software to help run a business. The first beta of LXLE LS was released July 7, 2015. LXLE 14.04.4 was released March 24, 2016. LXLE 16.04.3 Eclectica was released November 20, 2017. LXLE 18.04.3 Beta was released August 19, 2019.
  26. Macpup
    http://macpup.org/
    Macpup is Puppy Linux derivative or puplet. Like other puplets, Macpup uses the woof build system and should run on older hardware. The Macpup 525 release, dated June 11, 2011, was based on Lucid Puppy, which is binary-compatible with the Ubuntu Lucid Lynx release and includes the E17 window manager. Macpup 550 was released August 21, 2013.
  27. Nitrux
    https://nxos.org/
    Nitrux focuses on portable universal app formats (focused on the AppImage format). It uses the Nomad Desktop, which is built on top of KDE Plasma 5 and Qt. Version 1.0 was based on Ubuntu 17.10 and released June 30, 2017. Nitrux 1.1.2 was released December 29, 2018.
  28. Open webOS
    http://www.openwebosproject.org/
    Open webOS is the next generation of web-centric platforms built to run on a wide range of form factors. The Open webOS Project is a key part of the ecosystem of HP, along with the webOS cloud services product offerings and the Enyo Open Source Project. Open webOS joined the list with the release of 1.0 on September 28, 2012.
  29. Parsidora
    http://sourceforge.net/projects/parsidora/
    http://parsidora.ir/en
    Parsidora is a Fedora Remix that aims to provide a more pleasant out of the box experience for people not bound by US law. It has multimedia codecs and other extra goodies in it. Its primary focus is on providing an Installation DVD/media instead of a live version to target users who do not have access to high speed internet. Parsidora is NOT a localized distribution, and the main language is English. But it does provide some features suitable for Persian users, which can be easily disabled during the installation. Therefore, it can be considered an international distribution. Parsidora 15, released August 9, 2011, features Jockey for easier hardware driver installation. Parsidora 18 was released June 4, 2013. Parsidora 20 was released July 16, 2014.
  30. PCLinuxOS
    http://www.pclinuxos.com/
    PCLinuxOS 2K4 started out as a live CD based on Mandriva. In the early days the project produced a KDE-centric desktop distribution, but it later branched out into other editions. PCLinuxOS 2K4 Preview 4 was the current version as of December 17, 2003, when it was added to this list. By 2016 PCLinuxOS had moved to a rolling-release model where packages are updated frequently. Community PCLinuxOS LXDE 64 2016.07 was released July 8, 2016. PCLinuxOS KDE64 2017 Desktop and PCLinuxOS MATE64 2017 Desktop were released in February 2017. PCLinuxOS KDE Plasma 5 2017.03 was released March 2, 2017. PCLinux OS KDE Full Edition 2019.06 was released June 16, 2019.
  31. Peach OSI
    http://www.peachosi.com/
    Peach OSI is an Xubuntu derivative that aims to be easy to use, flexible, lightweight, full of useful software and multi-functional. The first stable release of Peach OSI, based on Xubuntu 14.04.1, happened in June 2014. Peach OSI "Netbook" was released December 18, 2014.
  32. Peppermint
    http://peppermintos.com/
    Peppermint is a cloud/web application-centric distribution. It aims to be sleek, user friendly and fast. Peppermint was designed for enhanced mobility, efficiency and ease of use. It's based on Lubuntu and uses some of Linux Mint's configuration files. A first private beta was released April 14, 2010. Peppermint OS One was released May 10, 2010. Peppermint 6 Respin with UEFI Support was released September 6, 2015. Peppermint 7 was released June 24, 2016. Peppermint 7 Respin was released November 29, 2016. Peppermint 8 was released May 28, 2017. Peppermint 8 Respin-2 (Peppermint-8-20180203) was released February 5, 2018. Peppermint 9 was released June 22, 2018. Peppermint 9 Respin-2 was released January 2, 2019. Peppermint 10 was released May 17, 2019.
  33. PinguyOS
    http://pinguyos.com/
    PinguyOS is a Ubuntu based distribution that strives to be even easier to use, with applications chosen and pre-installed with that goal in mind. PinguyOS 11.04 was released May 14, 2011, with a classic GNOME 2.32.1 desktop. Ping-Eee OS 11.04 was released July 8, 2011. Pinguy 10.04.3 LTS was released August 4, 2011. Pinguy OS 12.04 LTS was released June 17, 2012. Pinguy OS 13.10 was released December 6, 2013. Pinguy OS 14.04.3 was released September 9, 2015. Pinguy OS 18.04.1 was released August 6, 2018.
  34. Point Linux
    http://pointlinux.org/
    Point Linux is a Debian-based desktop aimed at experienced users and the business/IT sector. The 3.0 release is based on Debian 8.0 (jessie). Point Linux joined the list with the release of 3.0 beta 1, dated December 31, 2013. Jessie was in testing at that time. Point Linux 3.0 with MATE and Xfce was released July 9, 2015. Point Linux 3.2 (MATE and Xfce) was released June 21, 2016.
  35. Robolinux
    http://www.robolinux.org/
    http://sourceforge.net/projects/robolinux/
    Robolinux aims to be easy to use, fast, and secure. Based on Debian stable, this distribution allows Windows applications to run in a VM. Robolinux 7.8.1 was released January 22, 2015 in Gnome, lxde, and xfce editions. Robolinux 7.8.1 KDE was released February 12, 2015. Robolinux 7.9.2 LTS (supported until 2018) was released June 19, 2015. Robolinux Xfce Raptor 8.1 LTS 2020 was released September 3, 2015. Robolinux Raptor 8.4 was released March 18, 2016. Robolinux Raptor 8.4 Cinnamon, Mate, Xfce & LXDE were released March 18, 2016. Robolinux 8.5 was released June 17, 2016. Robolinux 9.2 was released May 3, 2018. Robolinux 10.5 was released May 20, 2019.
  36. Salix OS
    http://www.salixos.org/
    Salix OS is a Linux distribution based on Slackware, that is simple, fast and easy to use. Salix is also fully backwards compatible with Slackware, so Slackware users can benefit from Salix repositories, which they can use as an "extra" quality source of software for their favorite distribution. Salix is using a system of one application per task. It also follows the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) principle. Like a bonsai, Salix is small, light and the product of infinite care. Salix 13.0 was released September 16, 2009. Salix 13.1 was available with KDE, LXDE, Xfce, Fluxbox, and Live editions. Salix 13.37 was available in Xfce, Fluxbox, KDE, LXDE, Ratpoison, and MATE editions. Salix Xfce 14.1 was released March 4, 2014. Salix MATE 14.1 was released June 1, 2014. Salix Openbox 14.1 was released July 27, 2014. Salix Fluxbox 14.1 was released September 22, 2014. Salix Live Xfce 14.2 was released November 13, 2016. Salix Xfce 14.2 was released August 29, 2016.
  37. SemiCode OS
    http://www.semicodeos.com/
    SemiCode OS is billed as "Linux For Programmers and Web Developers". It comes with many programming languages, compilers, editors, and IDEs out of the box. SemiCode OS 0.1 Beta (based on Ubuntu 14.04) was released December 12, 2016.
  38. Simplicity Linux
    http://simplicitylinux.org/
    Simplicity Linux is based on Puppy Linux. It comes in different versions, from bare bones to fully featured. The Netbook or mini edition is light-weight and meant for using cloud based applications. The Desktop edition is fully-featured. Simplicity 13.10 was released October 17, 2013. Simplicity Linux 16.07 was released July 31, 2016. Simplicity 19.10 Alpha 1 was released August 23, 2019.
  39. Swift Linux
    http://www.swiftlinux.org/
    Swift Linux aims to be a lightweight, user-friendly distribution that is fully compatible with Debian software repositories. Swift was originally based on AntiX (a lightweight Mepis derivative). Swift Linux 0.1.2, released August 21, 2011, came in Diet Swift, Regular Swift, Taylor Swift, Minnesota Swift, and Chicago Swift editions. For the 0.2.0 release (April 24, 2012) the base switched to Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) and the Silicon Valley Swift edition was added.
  40. Symphony OS
    http://www.symphonyos.com/
    Symphony OS was originally based on Debian and KNOPPIX, but later switched to a Ubuntu base. It uses a lightweight window manager, includes its own package mangement system that can install deb packages, source packages and Symphony binary packages, and includes the Orchestra application development environment. Beta 1 Preview 1 was released October 25, 2005. Symphony OS 2007.06 (the first Ubuntu-based release) was released June 6, 2007. SymphonyOS 15.0 was released January 31, 2015.
  41. Trisquel GNU/Linux
    http://trisquel.info/en/
    Trisquel GNU/Linux aims to be a fully free-as-in-speech system that is easy to use, complete, and with good language support. The project was born in 2004 with the sponsorship of the University of Vigo in Galicia Spain. The first version was officially presented in April 2005. The project hosts its own repositories which are derivatives of Ubuntu's main and universe components, but with all proprietary software removed. The differences include the removal of all non-free packages, the substitution of the original Linux kernel with the blob-free version linux-libre, and the addition of several packages. Trisquel joined the list with the release of version 3.0 STS "Dwyn", September 8, 2009. Trisquel 8.0 LTS "Flidas" was released April 18, 2018 and will be supported until April 2021.
  42. Ulteo
    http://www.ulteo.com/
    Ulteo strives to be the easiest system to use on computers. Ulteo is a new concept of an easy-to-use open-source operating system which could change the way we all use computers. The project was founded by Mandrake/Mandriva founder Gaël Duval, in late 2006. Ulteo currently consists of the Ulteo Online Desktop (Ulteo OD, version 1 - released March 18, 2008) and the Ulteo Application System. Ulteo AS "Sirius" was released July 22, 2008. Ulteo Application System "Polaris" alpha was released October 28, 2008. Open Virtual Desktop (OVD) 2.0 was released November 25, 2009. OVD 4.0.2 was released July 15, 2014.
  43. Ultimate Edition
    http://ultimateedition.info/
    OZ Unity
    https://www.ultimateeditionoz.com/
    Ultimate Edition is an Ubuntu based distribution. It joined the list at version 2.0 (released November 11, 2008), based on the Intrepid Ibex daily build. That version came in a 32 bit, 64 Bit & and a Gamers edition (x86 based). There are plenty of themes, wallpapers, icon sets, gdm login screens, and Usplashes. Ultimate Edition 3.6 was released October 24, 2013. The OZ Unity project creates an Ultimate Edition OS aimed at creating a system for new users. OZ Unity aimes to be easy to install, inviting and intuitive to use, and enhanced with applications that the majority of users would require on a day by day basis. Users are invited to post their application list to the OZ Unity forum. Ultimate Edition 3.9 was released April 8, 2014. Ultimate Edition 4.3 was released December 7, 2014. Ultimate Edition 4.6 Gamers was released September 4, 2015. Released December 19, 2015: 4.2.3 Lite, 4.2 armhf, 4.2 armhf lite, and 4.9-x64. Ultimate Edition 5.0 LTS was released June 20, 2016. Ultimate Edition 5.0 Gamers was released January 7, 2017. Ultimate Edition 5.5 was released June 24, 2017.
  44. Uruk GNU/Linux
    https://urukproject.org/dist/
    Uruk GNU/Linux aims to be lightweight, user-friendly and powerful. It is currently based on the Trisquel GNU/Linux core, with the Linux-libre kernel. It comes ready for home and office use, and programs are easy to find and install. Uruk 1.0 was the current version when this entry was added to the list, July 6, 2016. Uruk 2.0 was released December 5, 2017.
  45. VLOS
    http://www.vidalinux.com/
    VLOS is a Linux distribution based on Gentoo, but uses the Red Hat Anaconda installer to make it easier for end users to install it. Its default desktop environment is GNOME. The purpose of VLOS is to make the Linux operating system more accessible to home and office users. It combines the power of ebuilds and portage and compiling all software from source (aside from a select few larger ones, which are available in binary) into an easy-to-use package. It comes from Puerto Rico. Vidalinux was still in its first beta edition when added to the list on July 14, 2004. VLOS 1.2, based on Gentoo Linux and Red Hat's anaconda graphical installer, was released August 2, 2005. VLOS 1.3 was released October 18, 2006. VLOS 2.2 was released November 25, 2010.
  46. Xange
    http://openxange.org/
    Xange, formerly Vixta.org, is a Fedora remix with KDE and open source software. It is a general purpose OS designed for netbooks, laptops, desktops and servers. Vixta joined the list at v094, released October 6, 2007. Open Xange 2010 was released January 9, 2010. Open Xange 2011.08 was released August 15, 2011. OX 2014.02 was released February 12, 2014.

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Linux Distributions List- General Purpose

These distributions should be suitable for desktop and server applications. Most should have current versions available.

  1. Absolute Linux
    http://absolutelinux.org/
    Absolute is a customized Slackware distribution, assembled to make installation and maintenance of Slackware easier. It's built for speed, stability, security, ease of use and development. It is lightweight and should run on older hardware. Absolute joined the list with the release of v12.0, July 16, 2007. Absolute 14.2 (based on Slackware 14.2) was released September 18, 2016. Absolute 15.0 Beta1 was released January 11, 2018.
  2. ALT Linux
    http://www.altlinux.org/
    ALT Linux started out as a Russian localization of Mandrake Linux. The last such release was Linux-Mandrake Russian Edition Spring 2001. After that ALT forked into a unique distribution. It is well-known in Russia. Designed to be a universal distribution, ALT is suitable for servers, user workstations, software development, etc. The heart of ALT Linux is the unstable, development branch Sisyphus. ALT Linux Master 2.2 was released March 7, 2003. ALT Server, Workstation, Education 8.2 was released December 30, 2017.
  3. AntiX
    http://antix.mepis.org/
    MEPIS Community
    AntiX started out as an Ultra-Lite, community developed MEPIS Derivative. The antiX-12 release was based directly on Debian testing, compatible with Debian testing repositories. Older, less powerful hardware should be well supported. It includes support for multiple languages including Brazilian-Portuguese, Catalan, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Italian, Romanian, Spanish, Russian, and Turkish. AntiX 6.5 was released July 9, 2007. antiX-M11 'Jayaben Desai' was released May 3, 2011. antiX 15 was released June 30, 2015. antiX-16.1 (Berta Cáceres) (based on Debian 8.5 "jessie", but systemd-free) was released January 17, 2017. antiX 16.2 was released June 16, 2017. antiX 17.4 was released March 6, 2019. antiX 19 (based on Debian Buster and systemd-free) beta 3 was released August 17, 2019.
  4. aptosid
    http://aptosid.com/
    Aptosid was born from the ashes of sidux. Aptosid is a full featured Debian sid (unstable) based live CD with a special focus on hard disk installations, a clean upgrade path within sid and additional hardware and software support. The ISO is completely based on the free main component of Debian sid, enriched and stabilized with aptosid's own packages and scripts. The project was announced September 11, 2010. aptosid 2012-01 was released December 1, 2012. aptosid 2013-01 was released May 5, 2013.
  5. ArchBang
    http://archbang.org/
    ArchBang is a simple GNU/Linux distribution which provides you with a lightweight Arch Linux system combined with the Openbox Window Manager. It's suitable for both desktop and portable systems. ArchBang is a rolling release with regularly updated isos. ArchBang appeared on this list with the 2011.02 release, dated February 4, 2011.
  6. ArchLabs Linux
    https://archlabslinux.com/
    ArchLabs is based on Arch Linux, influenced and inspired by the look and feel of BunsenLabs. It is not a clone of BunsenLabs, but does follow Arch closely and rolls along with regular updates. ArchLabs joined the list with the release of v2017.12 on December 23, 2017. ArchLabs 2018.12 was released December 17, 2018.
  7. Artix
    https://artixlinux.org/
    The Arch-OpenRC and Manjaro-OpenRC projects joined forces to create Artix, an Arch-based distribution that uses the OpenRC init system. It uses a rolling release model with no version numbers. Artix was first announced July 27, 2017. There are three editions: a minimal Base edition, an edition featuring the i3 window manager, and an edition running the LXQt desktop.
  8. AryaLinux
    http://aryalinux.org/
    AryaLinux is a source-based Linux distribution inspired by LFS/BLFS. Bash scripts are used for building the entire distribution from the ground up. AryaLinux has Mate and XFCE spins as the supported desktop environments but support for other desktops is in progress. AryaLinux joined the list with the release of v2016.04, dated May 9, 2016. AryaLinux 2016.08 was released September 7, 2016. AryaLinux 2017 was released January 13, 2017. AryaLinux 1.0 Aranya, released July 5, 2018, has the GNOME desktop as the default.
  9. Bluestar Linux
    http://bluestarlinux.sourceforge.net/
    Bluestar Linux is based on Arch Linux and aims to be easier to get started on than standard Arch. It comes with multi-media codecs and a wide variety of applications to create a full development / desktop / multimedia environment. Bluestar comes in 3 editions desktop, deskpro and developer. Bluestar 4.8.4 Desktop Edition was released October 27, 2016. Bluestar 4.8.6 Deskpro Edition was released November 6, 2016. Bluestar Lite Edition was released November 14, 2016. Bluestar 4.8.8 Developer Edition was released November 20, 2016. Bluestar Linux 4.9.6 DeskPro was released February 1, 2017. Bluestar 4.9.6 Developer Edition was released February 7, 2017.
  10. Bodhi
    http://bodhilinux.com/
    Bloathi
    Bodhi is an Ubuntu-based distribution that uses the Enlightenment window manager and libraries. Bodhi only pre-installs a few packages so you can add what you want and not have your system cluttered with unwanted applications. Bodhi 1.0.0 was released March 25, 2011. Bodhi 1.4.0 was released March 22, 2012. Bloathi provides an alternative installation for those who want a more fully featured distribution out of the box. The initial release of Bloathi, v1.3.0, was announced January 15, 2012. Bodhi Linux 2.4.0 was released September 12, 2013. Bodhi Linux 3.0.0 was released February 17, 2015. Bodhi 3.1.0, released August 11, 2015, features the Moksha Desktop (a fork of E17). Bodhi Linux 3.2.0 was released March 30, 2016. Bodhi 4.4.0 was released December 8, 2017. Bodhi 5.0.0 was released August 22, 2018.
  11. BunsenLabs Linux
    https://www.bunsenlabs.org/
    BunsenLabs Linux is a distribution offering a light-weight and easily customizable Openbox desktop. The project is a community continuation of CrunchBang Linux. The current release was Debian jessie-based Hydrogen when this entry was added to the list, June 13, 2016. A BunsenLabs "Deuterium" point release was made available January 30, 2017. BunsenLabs Helium was released April 30, 2018.
  12. ClearOS
    http://www.clearfoundation.com/
    Formerly known as ClarkConnect, ClearOS is Red Hat/CentOS based. It is a network and gateway server designed for the small business and distributed environments. ClarkConnect version 1.1 was released July 31, 2002. ClarkConnect 5.0 was based on CentOS 5.3 and was available in Community and Enterprise editions in July 2009. Historically the ClarkConnect Enterprise OS had proprietary bits. The ClearFoundation renamed ClarkConnect to ClearOS, a completely free distribution, announced September 12, 2009 and version 5.1 was released in December. ClearOS 6.7.0 Community and Professional editions were released December 14, 2015. ClearOS 7 was released April 30, 2015. ClearOS 7.6.0 was released April 30, 2019.
  13. ConnochaetOS
    http://www.connochaetos.org/
    http://sourceforge.net/projects/connochaetos/
    ConnochaetOS was once known as DeLi Linux ("Desktop Light" Linux), a desktop distribution for older computers. It is based on Slackware and Salix. ConnochaetOS aims to be suitable for older computers, but still have modern desktop software. DeLi Linux 0.1 was released November 3, 2002. Development came to standstill after the release of DeLi Linux 0.8.0 dated May 28, 2008 and the distribution was eventually renamed ConnochaetOS with the release of 0.8.9 Beta 1, dated November 13, 2010. Connochaet aims to include only FSF-approved free software. ConnochaetOS 0.9.1 was released February 22, 2012. Developement was discontinued in 2013. The project was revived and version 14.1 was released May 12, 2015. ConnochaetOS 14.2 was released August 26, 2016.
  14. CrunchBang++
    https://crunchbangplusplus.org/
    CrunchBang (#!) Linux was a Debian based distribution featuring the lightweight Openbox window manager and GTK+ applications. #! joined the list at version 8.10.02, released January 18, 2009. CrunchBang 11 "Waldorf" (stable) was released May 6, 2013. CrunchBang was officially retired on February 6, 2015. But #! is not dead, it is succeeded by #!++. Debian Jessie based #!++ 1.0 was released April 29, 2015.
  15. CRUX
    http://www.crux.nu/
    CRUX is a lightweight, i686-optimized Linux distribution targeted at experienced Linux users. The primary focus of this distribution is "keep it simple", which is reflected in a simple tar.gz-based package system, BSD-style initscripts, and a relatively small collection of trimmed packages. The secondary focus is utilization of new Linux features and recent tools and libraries. Version 1.1 was released March 24, 2003. CRUX 1.3.1 for PowerPC was released February 25, 2004. CRUX 2.8 was released October 24, 2012. CRUX 3.5 was released June 11, 2019.
  16. Cucumber Linux
    http://www.cucumberlinux.com/
    Cucumber Linux is an independent distribution that aims to provide a minimalistic system that follows the Unix Philosophy. Cucumber Linux favors simplicity and modularity of design over simplicity of use. It does not use systemd. Cucumber Linux 1.0 was released July 10, 2017.
  17. Devuan GNU+Linux OS
    https://devuan.org
    Devuan is a Debian fork that seeks to eliminate the use of systemd. The project was started in 2014. The first beta release was dated April 29, 2016. Devuan Jessie 1.0.0 was released May 25, 2017. Devuan 2.0 ASCII was released June 9, 2018. Devuan Beowolf is in testing.
  18. Draco GNU/Linux
    http://www.dracolinux.org/
    Draco is a semi source based GNU/Linux distribution. It has roots in Slackware and uses pkgsrc, a package management system from NetBSD. Draco separates the system from the third-party packages, for a simple and clean distribution to use as you see fit. Draco joined the list at v0.3.0, released April 10, 2008. The current version was 0.4 in January 2014.
  19. FreespireOS
    http://www.pc-opensystems.com/p/freespireos.html
    LinspireOS
    FreespireOS is a Debian/Ubuntu based, 64-bit free and open Linux OS, that is geared towards open source users and developers. It is made by PC/OpenSystems LLC, which also makes LinspireOS. While FreespireOS is all free software, LinspireOS comes with proprietary applications and support options. The company also sells hardware with Linspire pre-installed. Freespire 3.0 and Linspire 7.0 were released January 1, 2018.
  20. Frugalware Linux
    http://frugalware.org/
    Frugalware is general purpose Linux distribution, designed for intermediate users. It has a current, a testing and a stable branch. The current branch is updated daily, with packages pushed to testing about every two months, and plans to update the stable branch every 6 months. Frugalware Linux 0.3-i686 was released October 13, 2005. Frugalware 1.0 was released March 22, 2009. Frugalware 2.1 (Derowd) was released September 5, 2016.
  21. Funtoo
    http://www.funtoo.org/
    Funtoo Linux was launched in 2009 by Daniel Robbins, who previously founded the Gentoo project. The Funtoo project aims to create a supportive environment for people to learn about free software. Like Gentoo, Funtoo is a meta-distribution that builds packages automatically from source code. Funtoo 1.3 was released January 7, 2019.
  22. gNewSense
    http://www.gnewsense.org/
    gNewSense is a GNU/Linux project that aims to remove all the binary blobs out of a rather popular distribution and make it all free. Initially the project produced a set of scripts to create a GNU/Linux Distribution based on Ubuntu. As of version 3.0 the distribution switched to a Debian base. Version 0.91 (beta) was released August 23, 2006. gNewSense 3.1 "Parkes" was released February 9, 2014. gNewSense 4.0 "Ucclia" was released May 2, 2016.
  23. Jeoss Linux
    http://www.vercot.com/~jeoss/
    Jeoss Linux is a compact install-everywhere Ubuntu based server oriented distribution. It is directly-installable even on legacy, limited resource, and embedded x86 platforms. The install process can be controlled from start to finish by the target local console, a remote serial console, or a remote SSH sesion. Jeoss U 8.04, released June 18, 2011, derives from Ubuntu 8.04 LTS. Ubuntu kernels are patched versions of unmodified mainline Linux kernel sources from kernel.org compiled with Debian build system plus Ubuntu specific configuration files. Every group of configuration files creates a unique combination of build-time defined kernel variables. These variables set kernel parameters as target processor, memory capabilities, I/O scheduler strategies, process preemption, etc. Ultimately every configuration blend defines a kernel "flavor" for the i386 architecture targeting a specific scenarios.
  24. KaOS
    http://kaosx.us/
    The idea behind KaOS is to create a tightly integrated rolling and transparent distribution for the modern desktop, built from scratch with a specific focus; one DE (KDE), one toolkit (Qt), one architecture (x86_64), etc. All work is geared toward packaging, not developing new tools or applications. The first KaOS release was in April 2013. KaOS 2019.07 was released July 1, 2019.
  25. Kwort Linux
    http://kwort.org/
    Kwort is a modern and fast Linux distribution that combines powerful and useful applications in order to create a simple system for advanced users who finds a strong and effective desktop. Kwort is based on CRUX, so it's robust, clean and easy to extend. Kwort joined the list with the release of v3.5-rc1, dated November 9, 2012. Kwort 3.5 was released November 19, 2012. Kwort 4.3.4 was released June 16, 2019.
  26. libreCMC
    http://librecmc.org/
    libreCMC (Concurrent Machine Cluster) is an embedded GNU/Linux-libre distribution with out non-free software or binary blobs. The project's goal is to provide an embedded distribution that respects user freedoms and allows users to control what their hardware does. This entry was added September 10, 2014, when the FSF added libreCMC to their list of free/libre distributions.
  27. Lunar-Linux
    http://www.lunar-linux.org/
    Lunar-Linux began as a fork of Sorcerer GNU/Linux. Lunar-Penguin, the development group behind Lunar-Linux, say they plan for this fork to stay close to the bleeding edge. This is a source-based Linux distribution with a unique package management system that builds each software package or module for the machine it is being installed on. Although a complete installation can take some time, it tends to be quite fast once installed. The initial ISO image lunar-20020321.iso.bz2 was released March 21, 2002. Lunar-1.5.0 "Indium Phosphide" was released May 23, 2005. Lunar 1.6.1 installer iso "Moose Drool" was released for i686 and x86_64, February 18, 2007. Lunar Linux 1.6.4 was released for i686 and x86-64, December 27, 2008. Lunar Linux 1.6.5 was released August 22, 2010. Lunar Linux 1.7.0 "Sinus Successus" was released October 11, 2014.
  28. Manjaro Linux
    http://manjaro.org/
    Manjaro Linux is based on well-tested snapshots of the Arch Linux repositories and is 100% compatible with Arch. The Manjaro repository is managed with its homemade tool called BoxIt, which is designed like git. Manjaro joined the list with the release of v0.8.2, dated November 10, 2012. Manjaro Linux 0.8.13 was released June 14, 2015. Manjaro-i3 o.8.13.1 was released August 4, 2015. Manjaro KDE-Next 2015.08 was released August 16, 2015. Manjaro (Bellatrix) 15.09 was released September 27, 2015. Manjaro Linux 15.12 was released December 23, 2015. Manjaro BspWM Community Edition 15.12 was released December 30, 2015. Manjaro 16.06 "Daniella" was released June 6, 2016. Manjaro 16.10 Fringilla was released October 31, 2016. Manjaro 17.1.0 was released December 31, 2017. Manjaro 18.0 was released October 30, 2018.
  29. Maui
    https://mauilinux.org/
    Maui is an Arch Linux based distribution that features the Hawaii desktop and uses Wayland and systemd under the hood. Hawaii 0.2.0 was released December 24, 2013. Netrunner/KDE Neon-based Maui 1.0 "Aurora" was released August 14, 2016. Maui 2 "Blue Tang" was released October 28, 2016. Maui 2.1 was released November 26, 2016. Maui 17.03 "Cuba Libre" was released March 4, 2017.
  30. MostlyLinux
    http://mostlylinux.com/
    MostlyLinux is a software company based in Jharkhand, India. The company does mostly the same things other Linux companies do including enterprise support and service, corporate training and custom distributions. They also are building a distribution called MostlyLinux. This entry was added August 24, 2004. The distribution is Fedora based with lots of additional software, including multimedia applications, LTSP packages and more. MostlyLinux 3.0 Enterprise/ Desktop was the most current version as of October 16, 2008. MostlyLinux 7.1 was released May 28, 2015.
  31. MX Linux
    https://mxlinux.org/
    MX Linux is a cooperative venture between the antiX and former MEPIS communities, using the best tools and talents from each. It is a midweight OS designed to combine an elegant and efficient desktop with simple configuration, high stability, solid performance and medium-sized footprint. MX-15 was released December 24, 2015. MX-16.1 (Metamorphosis) was released June 8, 2017. MX-17.1 was released March 14, 2018. MX-18.3 Continuum was released May 26, 2019. MX-19 Beta 1 was released August 25, 2019.
  32. NethServer
    http://www.nethserver.org/
    NethServer is CentOS-based distribution aimed at small offices and medium enterprises. NethServer joined the list with the release of v6.6 Beta1, dated January 28, 2015. NethServer 6.6 was released March 25, 2015. NethServer 6.7 was released October 19, 2015. NethServer 6.9 was released May 2, 2017. NethServer 7 was released February 8, 2017. NethServer 7.4 was released October 30, 2017. NethServer 7.6 was released December 17, 2018.
  33. Netrunner
    http://www.netrunner-os.com/
    Netrunner is sponsored by Blue-Systems.com. Its core is Ubuntu with an optimized KDE front-end, with a focus on freedom and useability, while not separating KDE and Gnome, but building functional bridges between them. Netrunner 3.2 was released June 30, 2011. Netrunner Desktop 17.06 was released July 1, 2017. Netrunner Rolling 2019.04 was released April 20, 2019. Netrunner 19.08 Indigo was released August 20, 2019.
  34. OpenMandriva
    http://openmandriva.org/
    OpenMandriva is a community fork of the now defunct Mandriva. During 2012 the OpenMandriva Association was formed separating the community from Mandriva SA. Mandriva/Moondrake 2012 alpha 2 was released November 6, 2012. The OpenMandriva Association later decided the community distribution would be called OpenMandriva. ROSA-based OpenMandriva 2013.0 Alpha was released June 18, 2013. OpenMandriva Lx 2013.0 was released November 22, 2013. OpenMandriva Lx 2014.1 was released September 26, 2014. OpenMandriva 2014.2 (Scion) was released June 29, 2015. OpenMandriva Lx 3.03 was released November 21, 2017. OpenMandriva Lx 4.0 was released June 16, 2019.
  35. paldo
    http://www.paldo.org/
    paldo stands for "pure adaptable linux distribution". It is a Upkg driven GNU/Linux distribution and it's a mix of a source and a binary distribution. Even though it builds packages like a source distribution it provides binary packages. paldo joined the list at v1.12, released November 5, 2007. paldo 1.22 was released May 21, 2010. A live CD (hybrid ISO) was released January 10, 2014. This is a rolling release with continuous updates. A stable live image was released June 4, 2019 and an unstable image was released June 16, 2019.
  36. Parabola GNU/Linux-libre
    https://parabola.nu/
    Parabola aims to provide a fully free as in freedom Archlinux. It's is compatible with Archlinux repositories and maintains its own "libre" repository with replacement packages such as the Linux-libre kernel. Parabola was added to the list February 7, 2012. Parabola is a rolling release with no version numbers.
  37. Pop!_OS
    https://system76.com/pop
    Pop!_OS is developed by System76 for use in the computers that the company makes. It can also be downloaded and installed elsewhere. It aims to be an OS for the software developer, maker, and computer science professional who uses their computer as a tool to discover and create. The initial October 27, 2017 release of Pop!_OS was based on Ubuntu 17.10. Pop!_OS 18.04 was released May 1, 2018. Pop!_OS 18.10 was released October 19, 2018. Pop!_OS 19.04 was released April 18, 2019.
  38. Q4OS
    http://q4os.org
    Q4OS aims to be fast and powerful, with a focus on security, reliability and conservative integration of verified new features. It features the KDE plasma desktop, with the Trinity desktop (a fork of KDE 3.5) and other desktops available. It should work well on older hardware. Q4OS joined the list with the release of Q4OS 0.5.18, September 8, 2014. Q4OS 1.2.8 was released August 22, 2015. Debian 9.5 'Stretch'-based Q4OS 2.7 was released December 31, 2018. Q4OS 3.8 Centaurus is based on Debian 10 'buster' and will be supported for 5 years; released July 15, 2019.
  39. Rebellin
    http://therebellin.com/
    Rebellin is a Debian based distribution that comes in two flavors. Synergy tracks Debian stable while Adrenaline tracks unstable. Rebellin aims to be fast, easy to use, and secure. The distribution is available for a nominal fee and the company provides email support. Rebellin joined the list with the release of version 1.5, dated April 16, 2013. Rebellin Linux 'Synergy 2.0' was released October 15, 2013. Rebellin Linux 2.5 was released February 13, 2015. Rebellin 3.0 was released May 9, 2016. Rebellin Linux 3.5 was released February 21, 2017.
  40. Refracta
    http://www.ibiblio.org/refracta/
    Refracta is designed for home computer users. It provides a simple and familiar layout that most users will find very comfortable. This Devuan derivative includes special tools - refractainstaller, refractasnapshot and refracta2usb - that allow you to customize your installation and create a live-CD or live-USB of your running system. These tools will work on most Debian/Devuan-based systems. Refracta (beta images based on Devuan Jessie) were available when this entry was added, August 2, 2016. Refracta-9.0, based on Devuan-2.0 (ASCII), was released February 8, 2019.
  41. Revenge OS
    https://sourceforge.net/projects/obrevenge/
    http://obrevenge.weebly.com/
    Revenge OS, formerly OBRevenge OS, aims to be light and fast, with an Arch Linux base. The goal of OBRevenge OS is to provide an easily installed desktop operating system with all of the power and customization of an Arch Linux base. OBRevenge OS is light on system resources, making it perfect for lower spec hardware, older machines, or those who simply want to save precious system resources for the work that they are doing. OBRevenge uses the Calamares installer. OBRevenge joined the list February 27, 2017. The name was changed to Revenge OS in July 2017. Updated 32-bit and 64-bit ISOs are available monthly.
  42. Sabayon
    http://www.sabayonlinux.org/
    Sabayon is a beginner-friendly Gentoo-based distribution that aims to deliver the best "out of the box" user experience by providing the latest open source technologies. Building on a distribution known as RR4 (32-bit) and RR64 (64-bit) Linux, Sabayon released version 3.3 March 25, 2007. The project moved to a rolling release model and snapshot 16.11 was released October 28, 2016. Sabayon 19.03 was released March 31, 2019.
  43. Semplice
    http://semplice-linux.org/
    Semplice aims to be simple, fast, and lightweight. It's based on Debian sid and uses Openbox and other lighter weight applications. Newer versions feature the "vera" desktop which uses GTK3 libraries. It will run on a 486 processor (or better) with at least 384 MB of RAM (to boot the live system). Additional applications can be added from the Debian repository. Semplice 2.0.2 was released April 8, 2012. Semplice 3.0 was released January 2, 2013. Semplice 6 "Stairway to Heaven" was released January 24, 2014. Semplice 7 "Comfortably Numb" was released April 8, 2015. Semplice 7.0.1 was released April 14, 2015. Semplice for Workstations 2015.2 "Jethro Tull" was released September 18, 2015.
  44. SharkLinux
    http://sharklinuxos.org/
    https://sourceforge.net/projects/sharklinux/
    SharkLinux specializes in virtualization and features a custom MATE/XFCE desktop capable of running on a cloud server with little impact on performance. The OS runs KVM as the primary hypervisor and provides a wide range of tools to build and run VM's and containers. Some limited native support exists for DEB and RPM based Linux platforms, NixOS, osX and Windows applications. The distribution was created by a single person using only an Android smartphone. SharkLinux is under heavy development with fresh ISOs built weekly. SharkLinux was added to the list April 4, 2017. This entry was updated August 31, 2018.
  45. Siduction
    http://siduction.org
    Siduction is a fork of aptosid and is also based on Debian's unstable branch aka sid. Siduction 2011.1 - One Step Beyond - was released December 30, 2011. siduction 2018.2.0 was released March 9, 2018.
  46. SME Server
    http://contribs.org/
    Once known as e-smith, this server and gateway distribution has gone through several owners, including Mitel Networks (where it became SME server), Lycoris and Resource Strategies, Inc. Mitel released version 5.5 of the SME Server on July 3, 2002. In March 2005 Ruffdogs took possession of Contribs.org and developed a roadmap for the rebuilding of the Contribs.org community. SME Server 7.0 was released July 1, 2006. SME Server then switched to a CentOS base and gained support from the Koozali Foundation. SME Server 8.1 was released February 28, 2014. Koozali SME Server 8.2 was released November 4, 2015. Koozali SME Server 9.2 was released May 2, 2017.
  47. SMS
    http://sms.it-ccs.com/
    SMS stands for Superb Mini Server. This Slackware based distribution is console based and manageable through the Webmin web-based interface. Although described as a mini server, it has all the features of a powerful server such as apache2, sendmail, postfix, spamassassin, clamav, squid, iptables, MailScanner, mysql, cups and lot of other server packages. The SMS project started in 2007. SMS 1.5.6 was released February 20, 2011. SMS 2.0.9 was released October 5, 2016.
  48. Solus Project
    https://solus-project.com/
    The Solus Project was known as Evolve OS, which was derived from a defunct distribution call SolusOS. Evole OS used the code base from the old Solus distribution, so the Solus Project is an evolving continuation of the old SolusOS distribution. The project changed the name in April 2015. It is built from scratch and uses its own Budgie Desktop and eopkg. Budgie is tightly integrated with the GNOME stack, while eopkg is a fork of the PiSi package manager. The first beta version was released January 26, 2015. Evolve OS Beta 1.1 was released March 16, 2015. Solus 1.0 "Shannon" was released December 27, 2015. Solus 1.2 was released June 20, 2016. In July 2016 the project moved to a rolling release model, with occasional snapshots. Solus 1.2.1 was released October 19, 2016. Solus 3 was released August 15, 2017. Solus 4 Fortitude was released March 17, 2019.
  49. SolydXK
    http://solydxk.com/
    SolydXK, a Debian derived distribution, creates two variants. SolydX features the Xfce desktop, while SolydK features KDE. SolydX strives to be as light-weight as possible. SolydK is more fully-featured. Both are available in a home edition. There is also a business editon of SolydK. SolydXK 201404 was released May 2, 2014. SolydXK 201801 was released January 16, 2018. SolydXK 9 was released July 16, 2017. SolydXK 201807 was released July 2, 2018. SolydXK 201902 was released March 3, 2019.
  50. Source Mage GNU/Linux
    http://www.sourcemage.org/
    Source Mage GNU/Linux is a source-based GNU/Linux distribution based on a Sorcery metaphor of "casting" and "dispelling" programs, which are referred to as "spells". Sorcery 0.1.3 was released into cvs on March 26, 2002. Source Mage 0.9.6 for PPC and x86 was released March 13, 2006. Source Mage ISO bugfix release 0.10.0-test5-1 was announced January 5, 2009. Stable Sorcery 1.14.3 was released May 26, 2009. Source Mage Cauldron (installer) 0.10.0 was released June 5, 2009. Sorcery 1.15.0 was released September 22, 2011. Stable grimoire v0.62-11 was released October 21, 2017.
  51. SparkyLinux
    http://sparkylinux.org/
    SparkyLinux is a lightweight, fast and simple Linux distribution designed for both old and new computers featuring customized desktops (like E19, LXDE, and others). It is built on Debian GNU/Linux testing. Sparky joined the list with the 2.1 "Eris" release, dated March 19, 2013. It was announced April 7, 2018 that future Sparky editions will be limited to one main Openbox based desktop: LXQt (rolling) or LXDE (stable). Debian 9 based SparkyLinux 4.11 "Tyche" was released July 10, 2019. Debian 10 "Buster" is the base for SparkyLinux 5.x "Nibiru". Sparky 5.7.1 was released April 3, 2019. Sparky 5.7 Special Editions were released March 13, 2019. Sparky 5.8 was released July 17, 2019. SparkyLinux 2019.08 "Po Tolo", based on Debian 11 "Bullseye", was released August 2, 2019. Sparky 2019.08 Special Editions were released August 8, 2019.
  52. Tanglu
    http://www.tanglu.org/
    Tanglu is based on Debian testing and follows Debian closely. Tanglu aims to be useful to both developers of upstream software and the average Linux user and Linux newbie. It is also meant to be a place to test new versions of upstream packages when Debian testing is frozen. Some Ubuntu packages will be used, such as the kernel and Kubuntu's KDE packages. Tanglu was announced March 14, 2013. Tanglu 1.0 (Aequorea Victoria) was released February 21, 2014. Tanglu 2 (Bartholomea annulata) was released December 12, 2014. Tanglu 3 (Chromodoris willani) was released August 4, 2015. Tanglu 4 (Dasyatis kuhlii) was released June 11, 2017.
  53. Turbolinux
    http://www.turbolinux.com/
    Turbolinux supports a variety of platforms and Asian languages. They were the Asian arm of UnitedLinux. March 15, 2004 Turbolinux became a wholly owned subsidiary of Livedoor, a large Japanese ISP. Turbolinux 10 Desktop was released October 2, 2003. Turbolinux 10 F, designed for home computer users, was released April 27, 2004. Turbolinux 10 Server (10S) was released October 5, 2004. Turbolinux 10 for AMD64/EM64T preview edition was released February 16, 2005. Turbolinux FUJI Desktop Version 11 was released November 2005. Turbolinux FUJI Version 11 became generally available May 30, 2006. Turbolinux 11 Server was released November 29, 2007. Turbolinux 12 (Client 2008 Net User Package) was released August 29, 2008. Turbolinux Appliance Server 3.0 was released January 11, 2011. Turbolinux 12.5 was released August 29, 2012.
  54. Unity Linux
    http://unity-linux.org/
    Unity Linux is a Mandriva-based distribution that utilizes the MkLiveCD project, which allows developers to create their own distribution on top of a Unity Linux core (or "trunk"). Unity Linux strives to provide a solid, well maintained foundation that developers can use as a starting point to build their own remastered distributions, or branches. The first beta release of Unity Linux (2010 Beta 1) was announced December 9, 2009. Unity Linux 2010.2 was released December 6, 2010. Unity Linux 2012 Alpha1 was released March 3, 2012. With no Mandriva release in sight the project decided to switch to ROSA as a base for Unity.
  55. Univention Corporate Server
    http://www.univention.de/en/products/ucs/
    Univention Corporate Server (UCS) is a preconfigured Enterprise Linux operating system with an integrated identity and management system. UCS-certified third party solutions are numerous. This entry was added July 12, 2006. UCS 3.0 was released December 12, 2011. An Ubuntu-based desktop product, Univention Corporate Client (UCC), was initially released October 31, 2012. UCS 3.2.4 was released November 12, 2014. UCC 2.0 was released June 11, 2014. UCS 4.0 was released November 20, 2014. UCS 4.2-3 was released November 30, 2017. Debian 9 "stretch" based UCS 4.3-3 was released December 11, 2018. UCS 4.4-1 was released July 16, 2019.
  56. VectorLinux
    http://www.vectorlinux.com/
    VECTORLINUX is a small, fast, Intel Linux operating system based on one of the original Linux distributions, Slackware. VectorLinux strives to be a bloat free, easy to install, configure and maintain Slackware based system. The average user can have a fully functional Slackware Linux system up in as little as 15 minutes, using VectorLinux. Version 2.5 was released April 2, 2002. VectorLinux 6.0 "Voyager" was released February 21, 2009. Other v6 releases include Light, Light Live, KDE-CLASSIC, KDE-Classic-Live, SOHO, and SOHO Deluxe. VectorLinuxL 7.0 was released November 27, 2011. Other flavors of VL 7.0 include Light, SOHO, and 64-bit. The 64-bit version of VL 7.0 was released July 14, 2012. VL 7.1 was released June 27, 2015. VectorLinux Light 7.1 was released August 17, 2015. Vectorlinux 7.2 beta was released July 3, 2016.
  57. Void
    http://www.voidlinux.org/
    Void is a volunteer project creating a distribution built from scratch. It follows a rolling release model, install once and update daily from a continuous build system. Its package system allows you to quickly install, update and remove software, which is provided in binary packages or can be built directly from sources with the help of the XBPS source packages collection. Void joined the list March 9, 2015. New images were released November 12, 2018.
  58. Zentyal
    http://www.zentyal.com/
    Zentyal (formerly eBox Platform) is a Network Gateway, Unified Threat Manager, Office Server, Infrastructure Manager, Unified Communications Server or a combination of them. Version 2.0 (released September 1, 2010) was based on Ubuntu 10.04 LTS. Zentyal Server 5.1 (based on Ubuntu 16.04.4) was released March 22, 2018. Zentyal Server 6.0 (based on Ubuntu 18.04.1 LTS) was released October 30, 2018.
  59. Zorin OS
    http://www.zorinos.com/
    Zorin OS is a multi-functional operating system designed specifically for Windows users who want to have easy and smooth access to Linux. It is based on Ubuntu and targeted towards small to medium businesses. Zorin OS 5 Business was released July 5, 2011. Zorin OS 5 Lite, Educational Lite and Educational were released during July and August 2011. Zorin OS 12.4 was released August 13, 2018. Zorin OS 15 was released June 5, 2019.

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Linux Distributions List- Education

This is mix of distributions used by educational institutions, and distributions that are designed to be educational to install and use.

  1. AbulEdu
    http://www.abuledu.org/
    AbulEdu is a Mandrake-based distribution for primary schools. It is currently in French but most of the tools can be translated. An AbulEdu server can handle Mac (netatalk), Windows (samba), GNU/Linux and X terminal (with LTSP) clients. The server acts as a central gateway for Web, mail, and printing, and facilitates the management of classes, pupils, and teachers. Everybody can publish Web pages on an intranet using Apache and all administration tasks are performed using a browser. The result is that a teacher who is not a computer specialist can install and manage a school network. Stable version 1.0.7-II was released May 26, 2003. Version 8.08.0 was released September 4, 2008. AbulEdu 11.08 was released December 22, 2011. AbulEdu 15.08 is available.
  2. Beyond Linux From Scratch (BLFS)
    http://www.linuxfromscratch.org/blfs/
    Beyond Linux From Scratch (BLFS) is a project with the aim of assisting LFS users to go beyond the base system. It contains a broad range of instrutions for installing and configuring various packages on top of a base LFS system. If you are wondering why you would want an LFS system or what one is, see the entry for LinuxFromScratch below in this list. BLFS 1.0 was released April 28, 2003 under the original BSD License. A systemd version is available in addition to the original SysV init version. BLFS 8.4 was released February 28, 2019. An initial beta of Basic Packages for Linux From Scratch was released September 21, 2018. The Basic Packages book provides suggested applications that are useful for all LFS users.
  3. CorvOS
    https://corvos.io/
    CorvOS is an Xubuntu-based system for primary schools (K-12 in the US). It offers ChromeOS simplicity without the privacy issues and Google vendor lock-in. The first stable release is expected in early May 2018.
  4. Debian-Jr.
    http://wiki.debian.org/DebianJr
    Debian Jr is a Debian Pure Blend that aims to help children and those who care for them to get the most use and enjoyment out of their Debian systems; to help them acquire some of the skills and experiences we have as adults; and to convey to them our values: our love of freedom, our appreciation for software that works well, and our strong sense of community.
  5. Freeduc
    http://sourceforge.net/projects/ofset
    The Organization for Free Software in Education and Teaching (OFSET) produced Freeduc, a Knoppix/Debian-based Linux system with educational software, all on one bootable CDROM. Version 1.1 of the Freeduc CD-ROM was released November 5, 2002. Freeduc-cd 1.5 was released May 15, 2005. Freeduc 1.7 was the current version in January 2016.
  6. Karoshi
    http://www.linuxschools.com
    http://www.karoshi.org.uk
    Karoshi is a server operating system designed for schools. Karoshi provides a simple graphical interface that allows easy installation, setup and maintenance of your network. Karoshi 5.1.3 was based on PCLinuxOS and released June 11, 2007. Karoshi 6.0 was released June 18, 2009. Karoshi 7.0 was released August 2, 2010. Karoshi 10.1.2 was released March 29, 2015.
  7. Li-f-e: Linux for Education
    https://sourceforge.net/projects/cyberorg-home/
    Li-f-e (Linux for Education) includes software for students, educators and parents. Originally based on openSUSE, Li-f-e switched to an Ubuntu MATE LTS base in 2016. See openSUSE-Edu Li-f-e. openSUSE-Edu Li-f-e 12.1 was released January 1, 2012. openSUSE-Edu Li-f-e 42.1, released December 21, 2015, was the last release based on openSUSE. Ubuntu based Li-f-e 16.04.3 was released August 6, 2017.
  8. Linux From Scratch
    http://www.linuxfromscratch.org/
    Linux From Scratch (LFS) is a project that provides you with the steps necessary to build your own custom Linux system using the LFS book. The web site also contains links to other resources such as mailing lists, mailing list archives, newsgroups, search engine, faq and more. Released under the original BSD License. Development version 3.2-rc2 was released February 27, 2002. LFS is available with or without systemd. LFS 8.4 was released February 28, 2019.
  9. PicarOS
    http://minino.galpon.org/en/
    PicarOS is a multipurpouse distribution with a focus on education, to be used at home or schools, suitable for kids from 3 to 12 and teachers. GALPon MiniNo is a related GNU/Linux distribution made for reusing old computers (10-12 years old). PicarOS Diego 2015 was released October 19, 2015.
  10. PrimTux
    http://primtux.fr
    http://sourceforge.net/projects/primtux/ PrimTux is developed in cooperation with the French ASRI Edu community, for use in French primary schools. PrimTux "Freedom", based on Debian 8.2 "Jessie", was released October 11, 2015. PrimTux Eiffel was released April 6, 2016. PrimTux2 was released October 29, 2016. PrimTux 4 was released October 26, 2018.
  11. PUIAS/Springdale Linux
    http://puias.math.ias.edu/
    The PUIAS project's Springdale Linux (SDL) is built by the computing staff of Princeton University and the Institute for Advanced Study, using RHEL sources. Additional repositories are available and may be used with a stock RHEL installation. The Addons repository contains additional packages not included in a stock Red Hat distribution. The Computational repository also includes additional packages specific to scientific computing. The Unsupported repository is a place where one time packages are put, they are unsupported and may change frequently. PUIAS 6.2 (pisa) was released December 15, 2011. Springdale/PUIAS 5.11, 6.7, and 7.2 were supported as of January 2016.
  12. Skolelinux
    https://wiki.debian.org/DebianEdu/
    http://www.skolelinux.org/
    Skolelinux, aka Debian Edu, is a free software soluion designed for the resources and needs of schools. It started in Norway, but it has become an international community, and is synonymous with the Debian Edu subproject. Skolelinux pr41 was released November 2, 2003. Skolelinux 1.0 (Venus) update 1 was released November 1, 2004. Debian Edu/Skolelinux 6.0.4 "squeeze" was released March 11, 2012. Debian Edu/Skolelinux 7.1 was released September 28, 2013. Debian Edu 8.0 "jessie" was released July 2, 2016. Debian Edu 9.0 "stretch" was released June 18, 2017. Debian Edu 10.0 "buster" was released July 7, 2019.
  13. ubermix
    http://ubermix.org/
    Ubermix is an all-free, specially built, Linux-based operating system designed from the ground up with the needs of education in mind. Built by educators with an eye towards student and teacher empowerment, ubermix takes all the complexity out of student devices by making them as reliable and easy-to-use as a cell phone, without sacrificing the power and capabilities of a full operating system. With a turn-key, 5 minute installation, 20 second quick recovery mechanism, and more than 60 free applications pre-installed, ubermix turns whatever hardware you have into a powerful device for learning. Ubermix was added to the list March 13, 2013, when the current version was 1.065. The 1.0.x series was based on Ubuntu 12.04 "Precise Pangolin". Ubermix 2.2 (based on Ubuntu 14.04.2 LTS) was released March 27, 2015.
  14. UberStudent
    http://www.uberstudent.org/
    UberStudent is an Ubuntu based, user-friendly Linux distribution for learning, doing, and teaching the essential skills of academic success at the higher education and advanced secondary levels. It is supported by a virtual learning environment. UberStudent 1.0 was released July 27, 2010. UberStudent-LXDE was released September 3, 2010. UberStudent 2.0.4.2 Lightweight Edition was released January 18, 2013. UberStudent 3.0 was released June 10, 2013. UberStudent 4.0 (LTS) Socrates was released July 20, 2014. UberStudent 4.3 "Heraclitus", Xfce Enduser Edition was released December 30, 2015.

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Linux Distributions List- Linux OS for Security

Here is the complete list of all secure Linux distributions that are developed for protecting systems against security attacks. If you are a cybersecurity professional, you need to review and bookmark this page as you will need it in your future projects.

  1. BackBox Linux http://www.backbox.org/ BackBox is an Ubuntu-based penetration testing and security assessment oriented distribution. It provides a network and systems analysis toolkit and includes some of the most commonly known/used security and analysis tools. BackBox Linux 2 was released September 3, 2011. BackBox Linux 6.0 was released June 11, 2019.
  2. BlackArch Linux http://blackarch.org/ BlackArch Linux is a lightweight expansion to Arch Linux for penetration testers and security researchers. Early ISOs were released July 1, 2014. BlackArch 2019.09.01 is out.
  3. CAINE http://www.caine-live.net/ CAINE (Computer Aided INvestigative Environment) is an Italian GNU/Linux live distribution created as a project of Digital Forensics. CAINE offers a complete forensic environment that is organized to integrate existing software tools as software modules and to provide a friendly graphical interface. CAINE joined the list with the release of v2.0 "NewLight" dated September 14, 2010. CAINE and NBCAINE 4.0 "Pulsar" were released March 18, 2013. CAINE 8.0 "blazar" was released October 30, 2016. CAINE 9.0 "Quantum" was released October 25, 2017. CAINE 10.0 "Infinity" was released November 9, 2018.
  4. CensorNet http://www.censornet.com/ CensorNet is a Debian-based Linux distribution must be installed on a dedicated machine with a minimum of two Ethernet adapters. The Console Configuration Tool is used to configure system settings and perform system maintenance, and the Web Administration Tool designed for day to day control of users, workstations and filtering rules. CensorNet 3.3 was the current version in April 2005. CensorNet Professional was available as Linux based software for self-installation, on a Dell powered hardware appliance or as a fully certified VMware virtual appliance as July 2009.
  5. CLIP OS https://clip-os.org/en/ The CLIP OS project is maintained by the ANSSI (National Cybersecurity Agency of France) that aims to build a hardened, multi-level operating system, based on the Linux kernel and a lot of free and open source software. The source code and documentation for CLIP OS 5 alpha (based on Hardened Gentoo) was released September 18, 2018 in French and English.
  6. CopperheadOS https://copperhead.co/android/ CopperheadOS is a hardened open-source system based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) release. The first beta was released February 8, 2016. CopperheadOS Android 9 Pie was released March 26, 2019.
  7. Cyborg Hawk http://cyborg.ztrela.com/ Cyborg Hawk is an advanced and powerful penetration testing distribution, based on Ubuntu. It includes more than 700+ penetration testing tools, various wireless devices support, and much more. Cyborg Hawk joined the list shortly after its November 2014 version 1.0 release. Cyborg Hawk 1.1 was the latest version as of March 2016.
  8. Debian Hardened http://www.debian-hardened.org/ http://sourceforge.net/projects/debianhardened Debian Hardened is a custom Debian distribution aimed at bringing high security to Debian GNU/Linux, with hardening features such as a hardened kernels and packages (Stack Smashing Protector + PIE compiled), the DHKP and linux entropy pool enhancements (and the LTRNG) for strong cryptography. Ubuntu Hardened is a related project.
  9. DEFT http://www.deftlinux.net/ DEFT is an Italian distribution that aims to be a very easy to use system that includes an excellent hardware detection and the best free and open source applications dedicated to incident response and computer forensics. DEFT is meant to be used by: police, investigators, system administrator, individuals, and all the people who need to use forensic tools but don't know the open source operative systems and the Forensic techniques. DEFT 6.1 was released April 15, 2011. DEFT Linux 7.2 was released October 23, 2012. DEFT Linux 8.2 was released August 10, 2014. DEFT Zero 2017.1 was released February 13, 2017.
  10. Discreete Linux https://www.privacy-cd.org/ Discreete Linux start out as the Ubuntu Privacy Remix. It is meant to be run from a USB drive and is not intended for permanent installation on hard disk. Its goal is to provide an isolated, working environment where private data can be dealt with safely. In August 2016 the distribution was renamed and rebased to Debian. The first stable version, UPR 8.04r1, was released December 4, 2008. UPR 12.04r1 was released May 7, 2014. Discreete Linux Beta 1 was released December 8, 2016.
  11. Endian Firewall Community http://www.endian.com/en/ Endian Firewall Community is a "turn-key" Linux security distribution that turns every system into a full featured security appliance. The software has been designed with "usablity in mind" and is very easy to install, use and manage, without losing its flexibility. This distribution was added to the list at version 2.1, released January 9, 2007. Endian Firewall Community 2.1.2 was released July 10, 2007. Version 2.2 was released May 28, 2009. Endian Firewall Community 2.5.2 was released August 23, 2013. Endian Firewall Community 3.2.5 was released February 27, 2018.
  12. Engarde Secure Linux http://www.engardelinux.org/ http://freshmeat.net/projects/esl/ EnGarde is a secure distribution of Linux engineered from the ground-up to provide organizations with the level of security required to create a corporate Web presence or even conduct e-business on the Web. It can be used as a Web, DNS, e-mail, database, e-commerce, and general Internet server where security is a primary concern. Version 1.2 (Professional) was released June 28, 2002. Version 1.3 (Community Edition) was released April 28, 2003. EnGarde Secure Community 3.0.22 was released December 9, 2008.
  13. Euronode http://euronode.org/ The Euronode Project provides a set of distributions, originally based on Debian GNU/Linux Woody Release 2. Three distributions are available: Euronode Minimal Woody, Euronode Simple Firewall, and Euronode Advanced Firewall. The Debian Sarge based Euronode 6.1, with 2.6.13 Linux kernel, was released January 10, 2006. Euronode sells "Instant Software Appliances" as of July 2009.
  14. heads https://heads.dyne.org/ Heads is much like Tails (listed below). Like Tails, it is intended to be used as a live CD/USB and uses Tor to help you be anonymous. However Devuan-based heads uses only free software and has applied for inclusion to the FSF's list of free distributions. heads 0.4, released March 26, 2018, was based on Devuan Beowulf (Testing).
  15. Helix http://www.e-fense.com/helix/ Helix is a customized version of the Knoppix Live Linux CD with many applications dedicated to Incident Response and Forensics. Helix 1.7 was released March 7, 2006. Helix 1.9E was released July 31, 2007. Helix 2008R1 (2.0) was released September 22, 2008. Helix 2008 is based on Ubuntu.
  16. IPFire http://www.ipfire.org/ IPFire is a hardened, versatile, state-of-the-art Open Source firewall based on Linux. It aims for ease of use, high performance in any scenario, and extensibility. The project uses Linux From Scratch as its base. IPFire 2.7 was released July 2, 2010. IPFire 2.21 Core Update 130 was released April 16, 2019. IPFire 2.23 Core Update 134 was released July 3, 2019.
  17. JonDo https://anonymous-proxy-servers.net/en/software_more.html JonDo/Tor-Secure-Live-DVD offers a secure, pre-configured environment for anonymous surfing and more. It is based on Debian GNU/Linux. The live system contains proxy clients for JonDonym, Tor Onion Router and Mixmaster remailer. JonDoFox is a pre-configured browser for anonymous web surfing and TorBrowser is installed too. JonDo 0.9.88.2 was released January 8, 2016.
  18. Kali Linux http://www.kali.org/ Kali Linux is the successor of the BackTrack distribution, funded and developed by Offensive Security. It's aimed at penetration testing and related tasks. Debian-based Kali Linux was announced March 13, 2013. Kali 2.0 was released August 11, 2015. Kali Linux 2018.4 was released October 29, 2018. Kali Linux 2019.2 was released May 21, 2019.
  19. Liberté Linux http://dee.su/liberte Liberté Linux is a secure, reliable, lightweight, and easy to use Gentoo-based LiveUSB Linux distribution intended as a communication aid in hostile environments. Liberté installs as a regular directory on a USB/SD key, and after a single-click setup, boots on any desktop computer or laptop. Available internet connection is then used to set up a Tor circuit which handles all network communication. Liberté joined the list with the release of 2010.1, dated November 22, 2010. Liberté Linux 2012.2 was released June 17, 2012. Liberté Linux 2012.3 was released September 1, 2012.
  20. Lightweight Portable Security https://spi.dod.mil/lipose.htm Lightweight Portable Security (LPS) was designed by the US Department of Defense to function as a secure end node. LPS boots a thin Linux operating system from a CD or USB flash stick without mounting a local hard drive and runs in RAM, providing a trusted network environment on an untrusted computer. LPS joined the list with the release of LPS-Public ISO 1.1.1, dated November 15, 2010. LPS 1.5.5 was released October 24, 2014. LPS 1.6.4 was released January 30, 2016.
  21. Linux Kodachi https://www.digi77.com/linux-kodachi/ Linux Kodachi based on Debian. It will provide you with a secure, anti- forensic, and anonymous operating system considering all features that a person who is concerned about privacy would need to have in order to be secure. Kodachi aims to be easy to use. It is a live system, intended to run from a USB drive and provides an established VPN connection + Tor Connection + DNScrypt service running. It runs in RAM so once you shut it down no trace is left behind. The first release of Kodachi was on October 20, 2013. Debian 8.6-based Kodachi 3.7 was released January 8, 2017. Linux Kodachi 4.0, based on Debian 9.5, was released October 3, 2018. Kodachi 6.1, based on Xubuntu 18.04, was released June 27, 2019.
  22. Live Hacking CD http://livehacking.com/cd-dvd/live_hacking_cd.htm The Live Hacking CD is packed with tools and utilities for ethical hacking, penetration testing and countermeasure verification. Based on Ubuntu this live CD/DVD runs directly from the CD/DVD and doesn't require installation on your hard-drive. Once booted you can use the included tools to test, check, ethically hack and perform penetration tests on your own network to make sure that it is secure from outside intruders. Live Hacking CD was added to the list February 16, 2010. Live Hacking Penetration Testing DVD V1.3 was released April 21, 2011.
  23. Matriux http://www.matriux.com/ Matriux is a fully featured security distribution consisting of a bunch of powerful, open source and free tools that can be used for various purposes including, but not limited to, penetration testing, ethical hacking, system and network administration, cyber forensics investigations, security testing, vulnerability analysis, and much more. It is a distribution designed for security enthusiasts and professionals, although it can be used normally as your default desktop system. Matriux 1.2 was released February 16, 2012. Matriux v3 RC1 "Leandros" was released September 26, 2013.
  24. NetSecL http://netsecl.com/ NetSecL is a Slackware based distribution with Grsecurity, chroot hardening, /tmp race prevention, extensive auditing and many other security features. Many scanners and sniffers are included to help keep your system secure. NetSecL joins the list with v2.1, released July 16, 2007. NetSecL 2.6 was released February 27, 2010. NetSecL 3.0 was released August 23, 2010. NetSecL 3.2 was released July 14, 2011. NetSecL OS 4.0 was released August 7, 2012. NetSecL 5.0, with XFCE and an openSUSE 12.3 base, was released November 26, 2013.
  25. Network Security Toolkit (NST) http://www.networksecuritytoolkit.org/nst/ https://sourceforge.net/projects/nst/ The Network Security Toolkit (NST), is a live CD based on Fedora. The toolkit was designed to provide easy access to best-of-breed Open Source Network Security Applications and should run on most x86 platforms. NST also makes an excellent tool to help one with all sorts of crash recovery troubleshooting scenarios and situations. Version 1.2.3 was released September 5, 2005. Fedora 28 based NST 28 SVN:10234 was released July 1, 2018. NST 30 SVN:11210, based on Fedora 30, was released July 16, 2019.
  26. Openwall GNU/Linux http://www.openwall.com/Owl/ Owl (Openwall GNU/*/Linux) is a small security-enhanced distribution for servers. Owl also makes a good base system for customized virtual machine images and embedded systems, and Owl live CDs with remote SSH access are good for recovering or installing systems (whether with Owl or not). A single Owl CD includes the full live system, installable packages, the installer program, as well as full source code and the build environment capable of rebuilding the entire system from source. Owl supports multiple architectures (x86, x86-64, SPARC, and Alpha) and offers some compatibility for packages developed for other Linux distributions. The primary approaches to security are proactive source code review, privilege reduction, privilege separation, careful selection of third-party software, safe defaults, and "hardening" to reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation of security flaws. The Owl 0.1-prerelease was released on May 11, 2001. Owl 3.1 was released January 5, 2015.
  27. Parrot Security OS https://www.parrotsec.org/ Parrot Security OS is a Debian-based distribution aimed at cloud oriented pentesting. It has a number of security tools for penetration testing, information gathering, vulnerability assessment, anonymity, cryptography, and more. Parrot joined the list February 2, 2016 when the current version was 2.1 "Murdock". Parrot 3.11 was released January 28, 2018. Parrot 4.0 was released May 21, 2018. Parrot 4.6 was released April 26, 2019.
  28. PureOS https://pureos.net/ PureOS is a Debian derivative with added emphasis on privacy protection. Privacy-protecting software applications are preinstalled and you may easily encrypt your hard drive. PureOS is used in Purism computers and it is endorsed by the Free Software Foundation. PureOS 8.0 "Prometheus" beta 1 was the current version in December 2017.
  29. QubesOS http://qubes-os.org/ Qubes is an open source operating system designed to provide strong security for desktop computing. Qubes is based on Xen, X Window System, and Linux, and can run most Linux applications and utilize most of the Linux drivers. The first alpha version was released April 7, 2010. Qubes 1.0 was released September 3, 2012. Qubes OS 4.0 was released March 28, 2018. Qubes OS 3.2.1 was released November 12, 2018. Qubes OS 4.0.1 was released January 9, 2019. Qubes OS 4.0.2-rc1 was released July 9, 2019.
  30. Redcore Linux https://redcorelinux.org/ Redcore Linux is based on Gentoo (stable + some unstable). It aims to be a very quick way to install Gentoo. Redcore provides a repository with prebuilt binary packages which receive continuous updates (rolling release model). Redcore 1801 was released January 28, 2018. In February 2018 the project announced that they will be rebasing to Gentoo Hardened, using many hardening techniques to help secure the distribution. Redcore Hardened 1803 was released April 1, 2018. Redcore Hardened 1806 was released July 1, 2018. Redcore 1908 Mira was released August 17, 2019.
  31. REMnux http://zeltser.com/remnux/ http://sourceforge.net/projects/remnux/ REMnux is a lightweight Linux distribution for assisting malware analysts in reverse-engineering malicious software. The distribution is based on Ubuntu and is maintained by Lenny Zeltser. REMnux 1.0 was made available as a VMWare virtual machine image, released July 8, 2010. REMnux 6 was released June 7, 2015.
  32. Santoku https://santoku-linux.com/ Santoku is dedicated to mobile forensics, analysis, and security. It is based on Lubuntu and comes with a wide range of useful tools to analyze and mobile applications. Santoku joined the list at version 0.4.
  33. Security Onion http://security-onion-solutions.github.io/security-onion/ Security Onion is an Ubuntu-based distribution aimed at intrusion detection, network security monitoring, and log management. Security Onion 14.04.3.1 was the current version as of February 2, 2016.
  34. SmoothWall http://www.smoothwall.org/ SmoothWall was first released to the world in July 2000 as a hardened internet firewall device. Products include Smoothwall Server and Smoothwall GPL, renamed Smoothwall Express. Smoothwall GPL 1.0 was released December 10, 2002. Smoothwall Express 2.0 was released December 17, 2003. SmoothWall Express 2.0 SP1 (stable update) was released December 22, 2006. SmoothWall Express 3.0 "Polar" was released August 22, 2007. Update 5 for Express 3.0 was released September 2, 2009. Smoothwall Express 3.1 Update9 was released April 21, 2018.
  35. Sophos UTM http://www.sophos.com/ When this entry joined the list in 2003 the distribution was called Astaro Security Linux and it was a firewall and VPN product. Version 2.033 was released April 25, 2003. In 2007 the distribution was renamed to Astaro Security Gateway, an all-in-one product with a firewall, intrusion protection, antivirus, spam protection, URL filtering, and a VPN gateway. ASG 8.300 was released January 10, 2012. The distribution was renamed again, to Sophos UTM (Unified Threat Management) and v9 was released July 15, 2012. Sophos UTM 9.1 was released May 13, 2013.
  36. Subgraph OS https://subgraph.com/sgos/ Subgraph believes that the best way to empower people to communicate and live freely is to develop technology that is secure, free, open-source, and verifiably trustworthy. Subgraph OS was designed from the ground-up to reduce the risks in endpoint systems so that individuals and organizations around the world can communicate, share, and collaborate without fear of surveillance or interference by sophisticated adversaries through network borne attacks. Subgraph OS is designed to be difficult to attack. This is accomplished through system hardening and a proactive, ongoing focus on security and attack resistance. Subgraph OS also places emphasis on the integrity of installable software packages. Supgraph joined the list February 24, 2016 when the project was in the pre-alpha stage. Subgraph OS Alpha 4 was released September 22, 2017.
  37. Tails http://tails.boum.org/ The Amnesic Incognito Live System (Tails) is a Debian based live CD/USB aimed at preserving your privacy and anonymity by forcing all outgoing connections to the Internet to go through the Tor network and by leaving no trace on local storage devices unless explicitly asked. Tails 0.7, based on Debian 6.0 squeeze, was released April 15, 2011. Debian 9 (stretch)-based Tails 3.15 was released July 9, 2019. Debian 10 (buster)-based Tails 4.0~beta1 was released August 7, 2019.
  38. Whonix https://www.whonix.org/ http://sourceforge.net/p/whonix/ Whonix (called TorBOX or aos in the past) is an anonymous general purpose operating system based on Virtual Box, Debian GNU/Linux and Tor. By Whonix design, IP and DNS leaks are impossible. Not even malware with root rights can find out the user's real IP/location. This is because Whonix consists of two virtual machines. One machine solely runs Tor and acts as a gateway, called the Whonix-Gateway. The other machine, called Whonix-Workstation, is on a completely isolated network. Only connections through Tor are possible. Whonix joined the list with the release of Alpha 0.4.5, dated October 9, 2012. Whonix VirtualBox 14.0.0.6.6 was released February 6, 2018. Whonix 14 was released August 7, 2018. Whonix KVM 14.0.0.9.6 XFCE was released December 12, 2018. Whonix VirtualBox 14.0.1.4.4 was released March 17, 2019. Whonix KVM 15.0.0.0.9, released April 16, 2019, updates the Whonix base to Debian buster (testing). Whonix 15 was released July 1, 2019.
  39. Wifislax http://www.wifislax.com/ Wifislax is a Slackware-based live CD with a collection of utilities designed to perform various security and forensics tasks. Wifislax joined the list with the release of version 4.7 (based on Slackware 14.1 - released November 10, 2013). Wifislax 4.11.1 was released July 29, 2015. Wifislax 4.12 was released August 6, 2016.

See Essential List of Linux Distros for IT Professionals to learn more about other Linux distributions.


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