Debian GNU/Linux
Overview
Debian GNU/Linux is one of the oldest and most respected Linux distributions. It is maintained entirely by volunteers and is committed to the principles of free software. Debian is renowned for its stability, its massive software repository (over 15,000 packages at the time), and the powerful APT package management system.
Many other distributions — including Corel Linux and Ubuntu (later) — are built on Debian's foundation.
Key Facts
- Package format: .deb with APT
- Default desktop: Your choice (GNOME, KDE, etc.)
- Installer: Text-based (detailed, thorough)
- Releases: Stable / Testing / Unstable (Sid)
- Website: www.debian.org
Good For Newbies?
Debian's text-based installer is more demanding than Mandrake or Red Hat. It's worth learning, but if it's your very first Linux install, you may prefer to start with Mandrake. Once installed, Debian's apt-get makes package management a pleasure.