Popular Linux Distributions

While one of the most attractive aspects of Linux is the fact that it is very flexible and can be adapted for a number of situations, there are a number of popular Linux systems out there which have formed the basis for many new variations. Some of the more popular variations, which are used as a basis for many new operating systems, are:

Red Hat

Red Hat Linux is one of the oldest distributions available and while no longer actively updated by the original vendor it is still very popular. It was the first system to us a RPM packaging format, which allowed the user to configure file formats, and also contained software to actually install the Linux code automatically.

Debian

Debian has an impeccable reputation in the Linux industry, offering some 15,000 software packages with the Linux code. The variations take in embedded systems, IBM main frames to the Intel x86 and other popular systems. First released in 1993, the companies are rigorous in their testing of new packages prior to release to the open market.

Slackware

Slackware Linux is one of the earliest of the Linux releases which are still being actively supported today. This variation of Linux is also the most UNIX-like available, which is a reflection of the time when it was first introduced. Using the KISS ("Keep It Simple, Stupid") philosophy of programming, Slackware has become one of the more popular distributions around, even if the original is over 20 years old.

Mandrake

While originally based upon the Red Hat Linux system (see above), Mandrake Linux has developed over the years, and now has a distinct reputation of its own. The companies have introduced a number of original system tools to assist with system configuration, which can sometimes prove a little difficult for new Linux users. The system is renowned for the desktop utility features, and the 2007 release has been well received.

Fedora Core

Again, the Fedora Core Linux system is based upon the Red Hat Linux (see above) although the developers have created a package which is predominately aimed at the home users - an area which has often been ignored. This distribution was originally created in 2003 when the Red Hat company closed down their Linux division, and while Fedora Core is supported by Red Hat developers, there is no official tie-up.

These are just a few of the popular Linux distributions used by today’s Linux developers, to create new distributions which utilize the original facilities from years gone by, making use of the impressive configuration options.