Linux Kernel

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Since the kernel is the heart of the system, an unstable kernel makes for an unstable distribution. Selecting a kernel version to install with a distribution is always a balancing act between stability and feature completeness; if you want the latest features, you may have to tolerate somewhat less stability.

For the 3.0 release, Debian GNU/Linux opted for the 2.2.x series of kernels. Slackware Linux 8.0 also shipped with a 2.2.x kernel, but supports 2.4.x kernels for those users who require them. Likewise, Debian 3.0 also installs a 2.2.x kernel by default, but includes a 2.4.x kernel package for users who want it. Contrast this with Red Hat Linux 7.2, which includes a 2.4.x kernel by default. Debian's focus in this case is to provide maximum stability in the default installation, while providing adequate flexibility for those users who need it.

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