5.5 Linux EdenFX Systems

Linux is a popular Open Source operating system developed originally to be similar to UNIX, but free to download and modify. There are countless different distributions of Linux, and it is being used in nearly every conceivable application.

It differs from BSD derivatives in several key ways. The most obvious and basic distinction is that Linux includes popular packages in a default install, where most BSDs consider anything but the base operating system as 'extra'. This has led to criticism of the core Linux distribution as being 'bloated'.

5.5.1 Debian

Debian is a free, Open Source operating system project, and notable for being one of the more popular variants. Many other Linux projects are actually based off of Debian, including Ubuntu. Debian is well known for its project management style, which involves a strict hierarchy of developers, and also very stringent requirements for what changes can be made to the operating system's core installation

5.5.2 Fedora

Fedora Linux is an Open Source operating system project sponsored by Red Hat and community development from the Fedora Project. Fedora is notable for having a short development cycle, and sharing its updates with the Linux project in general. Linus Torvalds (author of the Linux kernel) has said that he uses Fedora himself, based on its support for uncommon processor architectures.

5.5.3 Gentoo

Gentoo is a free Linux distribution based around an adaptation of the FreeBSD ports system. This means that it is exceptionally easy to install precompiled software that is correct for the user's architecture, and adds to the portability and usability of the operating system in general.

5.5.4 OpenSUSE

OpenSUSE is an operating system built on the Linux kernel. Its initial development was handled by Novell since its acquisition in 2004, but has since been released as an open source project, in order to involve the community in the development process. SUSE Linux Professional is still offered commercially by Novell.OpenSUSE is an operating system built on the Linux kernel. Its initial development was handled by Novell since its acquisition in 2004, but has since been released as an open source project, in order to involve the community in the development process. SUSE Linux Professional is still offered commercially by Novell.

5.5.5 Ubuntu

Ubuntu is currently the most popular Linux distribution, with some 12 million users worldwide as of 2010. It is distributed as free and Open Source software, however, its developer, Canonical, also has commercial support offerings. Ubuntu is designed primarily with desktop users in mind, but has been adapted for use elsewhere.