Section 1.4. A Quick Survey of Linux Distributions

1.4. A Quick Survey of Linux Distributions

We mentioned that the Linux kernel is only part of what is usually referred to as "Linux." A Linux distribution is a combination of the Linux kernel, tools, window managers, and many other applications. Many of the system programs used in Linux are developed and maintained by the FSF GNU project. With the rise in Linux's demand and popularity, the packaging of the kernel with these and other tools has becoming a significant and lucrative undertaking. Groups of people and corporations take on the mission of providing a particular distribution of Linux in keeping with a particular set of objectives. Without getting into too much detail, we review the major Linux distributions as of this writing. New Linux distributions continue to be released.

Most Linux distributions organize the tools and applications into groups of header and executable files. These groupings are called packages and are the major advantage of using a Linux distribution as opposed to downloading header files and compiling everything from source. Referring to the GPL, the license gives the freedom to charge for added value to the open-source software, such as these services provided in the code's redistribution.

1.4.1. Debian

Debian^[2] is a GNU/Linux operating system. Like other distributions, the majority of applications and tools come from GNU software and the Linux kernel. Debian has one of the better package-management systems, apt (advanced packaging tool). The major drawback of Debian is in the initial installation procedure, which seems to cause confusion among novice Linux users. Debian is not tied to a corporation and is developed by a community of volunteers.

^[2] http://www.debian.org.

1.4.2. Red Hat/Fedora

Red Hat^[3] (the company) is a major player in the open-source software-development arena. Red Hat Linux was the company's Linux distribution until recently (20022003) when it replaced its sole offering with two separate distributions Red Hat Enterprise Linux and the Fedora Core. Red Hat Enterprise Linux is aimed at business, government, or other industries that require a stable and supported Linux environment. The Fedora Core is targeted to individual users and enthusiasts. The major difference between the two distributions is stability versus features. Fedora will have newer, less stable code included in the distribution than Red Hat Enterprise. Red Hat appears to be the Linux enterprise version of choice in America.

^[3] http://www.redhat.com.

1.4.3. Mandriva

Mandriva Linux^[4] (formerly Mandrake Linux) originated as an easier-to-install version of Red Hat Linux, but has since diverged into a separate distribution that targets the individual Linux user. The major features of Mandriva Linux are easy system configuration and setup.

^[4] http://www.mandriva.com/.

1.4.4. SUSE

SUSE Linux^[5] is another major player in the Linux arena. SUSE targets business, government, industry, and individual users. The major advantage of SUSE is its installation and administration tool Yast2. SUSE appears to be the Linux enterprise version of choice in Europe.

^[5] http://www.novell.com/linux/suse/.

1.4.5. Gentoo

Gentoo^[6] is the new Linux distribution on the block, and it has been winning lots of accolades. The major difference with Gentoo Linux is that all the packages are compiled from source for the specific configuration of your machine. This is done via the Gentoo portage system.

^[6] http://www.gentoo.org/.

1.4.6. Yellow Dog

Yellow Dog Linux^[7] is one of the major players in PPC-based Linux distributions. Although a number of the recently described distributions work on PPC, their emphasis is on i386 versions of Linux. Yellow Dog Linux is most similar to Red Hat Linux but with extended development to support the PPC platform in general and Apple-based hardware specifically.

^[7] http://www.yellowdoglinux.com/.

1.4.7. Other Distros

Linux users can be passionate about their distribution of choice, and there are many out there. Slackware is a classic, MontaVista is great for embedded and, of course, you can roll your own distribution. For further reading on the variety of Linux dis tributions, I recommend the Wikipedia entry at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Linux_distributions.

This likely contains the most up-to-date information and, if not, links to further information on the Web.