List of the Top Operating Systems for Linux in 2025 - Page 2

KaiOS Technologies spearheads the development of KaiOS, an innovative operating system tailored for smart feature phones across the globe. Notably acknowledged by TIME magazine as one of the Best Inventions in the Social Good category, KaiOS enriches accessible devices with vital connectivity and useful applications. In a testament to its influence, FastCompany recognized KaiOS Technologies this year as one of the 50 most innovative companies, underscoring its significant contributions to the tech landscape. Based in Hong Kong, the company has additional offices in China, India, France, and the United States, employing a dedicated workforce of over 300 individuals who focus on broadening internet access for diverse populations. As smartphone prices and data plan costs continue to rise, along with the challenges posed by touchscreen devices for new internet users, KaiOS seeks to eliminate barriers to technology. Our mission is centered on empowering individuals across the globe through technology, grounded in the belief that internet access is crucial for unlocking potential. The platform features Wi-Fi, GPS, and a variety of advanced yet user-friendly functionalities, all designed with affordability in mind to help more people engage with the digital realm. By simplifying technological access, KaiOS paves the way for opportunities that were previously considered unattainable for many individuals. Ultimately, our goal is to foster a connected world where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Fedora Workstation is recognized for its reliability, strength, and ease of use, making it an excellent operating system choice for desktops and laptops alike. It caters to a wide array of developers, from enthusiasts and students to professionals in business environments. With the GNOME 3 desktop environment, users can focus on their programming without distractions, fostering an environment conducive to productivity. Designed with developers in mind, GNOME enhances the user experience by streamlining essential tasks. The frustration of locating or assembling the required tools is alleviated by Fedora's comprehensive collection of open-source languages, tools, and utilities, which can be accessed effortlessly with a click or command. Furthermore, Fedora encourages collaboration through platforms and repositories like COPR, allowing developers to share their work and create builds that benefit the wider community. This collaborative aspect not only enhances individual workflows but also promotes the spirit of open-source contribution. Ultimately, Fedora Workstation stands out as a premier choice for developers eager to improve their productivity and make meaningful contributions to the tech ecosystem.

Bodhi Linux stands out as a streamlined and efficient operating system featuring the versatile Moksha Desktop, making it an ideal option for those in search of a lightweight computing solution. The 64-bit variant is built upon Ubuntu 20.04, while the 32-bit Non-PAE version is derived from Ubuntu 18.04. Celebrated as the Enlightened Linux Distribution, Bodhi Linux 6.0.0 emphasizes its compact size and is supported by an enthusiastic development team eager to find new collaborators. The project invites contributions from programmers proficient in c, bash, and python, as well as translators, graphic designers, theme developers, and anyone interested in assisting. Even if you cannot contribute through coding or documentation, financial donations are highly valued and can make a meaningful difference. Renowned for its focus on minimalism and efficient resource usage, Bodhi Linux empowers users to select their applications without being hindered by unnecessary pre-installed software. In this way, the Bodhi Linux team remains committed to fostering a customizable and efficient user environment that aligns with individual needs and preferences, showcasing their dedication to enhancing user autonomy. This approach not only reflects their philosophy but also encourages a vibrant community where everyone can play a role.

You only need to configure it once, and then you can reap its rewards forever. There's no need to worry every six months about major updates that could make your device obsolete. Instead, you benefit from continuous updates that not only address security flaws and fix bugs but also add exciting new features and improvements, such as updated kernels, fresh drivers, and the latest versions of desktop environments. Each update is subjected to thorough testing based on top-tier quality benchmarks, utilizing a build service that other Linux distributions strive to replicate. Not only is each new version of a package tested on its own, but clusters of versions are also analyzed to ensure your system remains consistent. With a single command, you can update thousands of packages, revert to a snapshot taken a week prior, fast-forward to the latest versions, and even get a glimpse of what future updates might entail. This efficient approach allows users to manage their systems with ease, free from the typical frustrations linked to conventional upgrade processes. Ultimately, this means a more enjoyable and hassle-free experience for everyone involved.

JupyterHub is a powerful tool that enables the creation of a multi-user environment, allowing for the spawning, management, and proxying of multiple instances of Jupyter notebook servers. Created by Project Jupyter, it is specifically tailored to support numerous users at once. This platform serves a wide array of functions, making it suitable for educational settings, corporate data science teams, collaborative scientific research endeavors, or groups that utilize high-performance computing resources. However, it's essential to highlight that JupyterHub does not officially support Windows operating systems. While some users may attempt to run JupyterHub on Windows using compatible Spawners and Authenticators, the default settings are not optimized for such an environment. Additionally, any issues encountered on Windows will not receive support, and the testing framework is not designed to work on Windows platforms. Minor patches that could potentially address basic compatibility issues on Windows are infrequent and not guaranteed. Consequently, for those using Windows, it is recommended to operate JupyterHub within a Docker container or a Linux virtual machine, as this ensures better performance and compatibility. This strategy not only improves functionality but also streamlines the installation process, making it easier for Windows users to access the benefits of JupyterHub. Ultimately, adopting this method can lead to a more seamless user experience.

Introducing a groundbreaking operating system that integrates all your AI and automation tools into one cohesive visual platform. A major reason many automation and AI initiatives fall short is the lack of in-depth analysis of the specific business processes that necessitate automation; thus, performing a meticulous process analysis is vital for success. This innovative system highlights potential candidates for automation and AI application while enhancing process discovery and evaluation. Moreover, its AI-powered engine offers customized solution recommendations tailored to your needs. Often, inadequate planning and execution lead to unsuccessful automation and AI efforts, but DelphiOS is designed to help you overcome these challenges with ease. Featuring a superior methodology for deploying your solutions, DelphiOS optimizes development by effectively managing task assignments and approval workflows. Juggling multiple automation and AI technologies from various vendors can be daunting; therefore, having complete visibility and control over your current implementations is crucial. With the DelphiOS Control module, you can manage robots, AI models, and applications across six distinct technologies, all while accessing real-time performance metrics and diagnostics for your automation and AI endeavors. This all-encompassing oversight guarantees not only the effectiveness of your initiatives but also their ongoing enhancement for sustained success, positioning you for a future of innovation and efficiency. Embrace the future of automation with DelphiOS and transform the way you approach AI integration.

The system comprehensively monitors all web traffic and is capable of blocking certain websites via both HTTP and HTTPS protocols using the Squid proxy. It is seamlessly integrated with ClamAV antivirus software and utilizes site blacklists to bolster security measures. The configuration includes a multi-domain web server driven by a pre-configured LAMP stack, which enables the hosting of several domain names on a single server. Built on the NextCloud platform, it allows users to access their files universally through the web, personal computers, or mobile devices, thus providing the convenience of information retrieval from any location. Furthermore, it offers a private alternative to Slack through the Mattermost platform, ensuring secure collaboration among team members. The user-friendly web interface, constructed on Cockpit, enhances the efficiency of routine administrative tasks and features a rapid and uncomplicated installation process. This infrastructure operates on CentOS/RHEL, a popular server distribution recognized for its regular security updates and outstanding stability, making it a dependable choice for a multitude of applications. With this comprehensive setup, users can enjoy a blend of functional flexibility alongside robust security protocols, empowering teams to work effectively in a secure environment. Moreover, this system’s efficient design aids in streamlining workflows, thereby improving overall productivity.

Unraid OS offers exceptional capabilities for managing data, media, applications, and desktops, allowing users to utilize almost any hardware setup. It's especially advantageous for video creators, streamers with extensive video libraries, media editors, photographers, musicians, and music lovers aiming to reduce initial costs. With the ability to start with just two drives, users can gradually expand their storage as their needs grow. Gamers who also run media servers and prefer to tailor their systems depend on Unraid to ensure top-tier performance without sacrificing efficiency. Additionally, professionals such as designers, 3D animators, developers, and photographers use Unraid to store substantial amounts of assets locally, providing swift and effective access. You can also utilize backup services like Apple Time Machine and Windows Backup to securely preserve large datasets that are not accessed regularly. Moreover, software engineers, game development studios, AR/VR designers, and educational facilities benefit from Unraid by testing across multiple platforms and operating systems, which streamlines their workflows and boosts productivity. This adaptability and comprehensive functionality make Unraid an indispensable resource for anyone eager to enhance their data management strategies, regardless of their field or requirements. Ultimately, Unraid’s unique features empower users to tailor their storage solutions to their specific needs.

Guix represents an advanced distribution of the GNU operating system, developed by the GNU Project, that prioritizes user independence. It boasts functionalities like transactional upgrades and the ability to roll back changes, in addition to allowing unprivileged package management, which greatly enhances user flexibility. When used as a standalone distribution, Guix facilitates declarative system configurations that promote transparency and reproducibility in operating systems. It also integrates Guile Scheme APIs featuring high-level embedded domain-specific languages (EDSLs) for the purpose of defining packages and comprehensive system configurations. With a vast repository that houses thousands of packages, Guix grants users access to a diverse array of applications, system utilities, documentation, fonts, and other digital tools, all easily installable via the GNU Guix package manager. Moreover, Guix cultivates a vibrant community that supports collaboration and knowledge sharing, making it an invaluable asset for both developers and users. This community aspect enhances the overall experience, fostering a sense of belonging among those who contribute to and utilize the system.

PLD is a free Linux distribution derived from RPM, founded in 1998, and is tailored for advanced users and administrators ready to trade convenience for enhanced flexibility, frequently necessitating manual setup. With its compatibility across various architectures and a forward-thinking approach to RPM applications, it provides users with a stable operating environment on nearly all hardware platforms. This methodology not only improves usability but also cultivates a vibrant community of users who value the ability to personalize their systems according to their preferences. Additionally, the distribution's commitment to user choice encourages innovative solutions and collaboration among its community members.

Salix is a refined GNU/Linux distribution based on Slackware, prioritizing simplicity, speed, and user accessibility while ensuring robust stability. This distribution remains fully compatible with Slackware, granting users the advantage of accessing Salix's repositories as a supplementary source of high-quality software for their system. Much like a meticulously pruned bonsai, Salix is crafted to be both compact and lightweight, reflecting a dedicated focus on detail. The installation ISO encompasses everything required to set up the system, featuring a complete desktop environment alongside a diverse array of applications that follow the "one application per task" philosophy. Nevertheless, it intentionally excludes a graphical interface, providing only the fundamental components to start a console system. This design choice caters especially to advanced users who desire to customize their installation for specific purposes, such as configuring a web or file server, thus facilitating a tailored computing experience. Furthermore, the adaptability of Salix allows users to build a personalized environment that caters to their individual requirements, enhancing the overall user experience significantly.

Slint emerges as a powerful distribution, characterized by frequent updates to its accessibility software, while other elements receive updates as necessary. Users can seamlessly alternate between console and graphical modes without requiring a system reboot, enhancing convenience. Furthermore, Slint supports the concurrent activation of various graphical environments, which increases its adaptability for diverse tasks. The dashboard of Slint provides quick access to vital tools, relevant information, and helpful links, significantly improving the overall user experience. The installation process, crafted in text mode, is entirely accessible to visually impaired users who rely on a screen reader or Braille display, guiding them through a question-and-answer format complete with online support and built-in documentation. An essential feature of Slint is its implementation of the btrfs file system, organized with subvolumes instead of separate partitions, which optimally reduces the storage space required, eases the creation of snapshots, and is especially advantageous for SSDs, NVMe drives, and USB flash drives. This deliberate architecture not only enhances user-friendliness but also optimizes the management of system resources, ensuring that users can efficiently navigate their computing needs. Overall, Slint stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient operating system.

Trisquel is crafted for seamless use in both residential and professional settings, providing easy access to a variety of applications for hassle-free installation. You are encouraged to explore our documentation to learn about the diverse features we offer. Importantly, the standard edition of Trisquel places a strong emphasis on accessibility, ensuring that our manuals work well with screen readers and are supported by numerous educational audio guides. The Trisquel operating system is available for free download, making it accessible to a wide audience. To help sustain our initiatives, we invite you to consider making a donation, joining as a member, or purchasing equipment from ThinkPenguin or Technoetical, which further supports our objectives. Participating in our community not only fosters our growth but also enriches your overall experience with Trisquel, providing you with a chance to connect with like-minded users. Your involvement can make a significant difference in promoting open-source software.

This operating system is ideal for users who want to enhance their computing experience while appreciating a traditional desktop interface. It boasts minimal hardware requirements, making it suitable for modern workstations, single-board computers, and even legacy systems. Ubuntu MATE not only boosts the efficiency of new devices but also breathes new life into older hardware, making them functional again. We are excited to provide pre-configured images tailored for various models, including the Raspberry Pi 2, 3, 3+, and 4, as well as a range of ultra-mobile PCs like the GPD Pocket, GPD Pocket 2, GPD MicroPC, and Topjoy Falcon, offering a flexible solution for a wide array of computing demands. Furthermore, this versatility allows users to choose a setup that fits their specific needs, whether for casual use or more intensive applications.

OmniOS is a server operating system that is open-source and focuses on incorporating only the most necessary features. Featuring ZFS as its native file system, it combines a volume manager with advanced data protection mechanisms that ensure integrity. Users can easily share storage volumes through various protocols, including iSCSI, CIFS, and NFS. Moreover, OmniOS provides the capability to run lightweight virtual machines, whether they're running OmniOS or Linux in containers, which helps eliminate the overhead typically associated with traditional hypervisors while maintaining effective resource management. For users who require comprehensive hardware virtualization, it also supports virtualization technologies such as bhyve and KVM, enabling the use of diverse guest operating systems like Microsoft Windows and FreeBSD. The network infrastructure can be efficiently virtualized using Crossbow, which facilitates the creation of virtual interfaces and switches, and offers the ability to assign dedicated resources for particular applications. DTrace acts as a sophisticated dynamic tracing framework that significantly aids troubleshooting across the entire software stack, providing real-time instrumentation as necessary. As an open-source initiative, OmniOS operates in a self-hosting manner, with its development actively overseen on GitHub; this platform allows contributors to submit pull requests while granting anyone interested the ability to access the source code to compile their own version. This collaborative environment not only promotes community engagement but also ensures a high level of transparency throughout the development process, encouraging contributions from a diverse range of developers.

The recent update of DragonFly, now at version 6.2.2, brings forth a range of improvements, such as better hardware compatibility for type-2 hypervisors that use NVMM, an enhanced amdgpu driver, and an experimental capability for remote-mounting HAMMER2 volumes, in addition to a host of other revisions. Being part of the BSD family, DragonFly traces its origins back to Linux and various BSD variants, while maintaining the core UNIX principles and APIs, yet it takes a separate path in its development from FreeBSD, NetBSD, and OpenBSD. This unique trajectory allows DragonFly to explore innovative features, including its advanced HAMMER filesystem, which is designed for high performance and includes built-in mirroring along with historical access functions. Among its impressive features is the introduction of virtual kernels, which permit the operation of a full kernel as a user process, enhancing resource management, kernel development, and debugging processes within a faster framework. The combination of these advancements makes DragonFly a compelling choice for users in search of alternatives to traditional operating systems, showcasing its commitment to pushing boundaries in the realm of system design. Furthermore, this distinctive approach positions DragonFly as a notable contender for those who prioritize innovation alongside reliability.

MicroOS is a microservice-focused operating system designed to provide atomic updates on a read-only btrfs root filesystem, specifically tailored for containerized applications with features that facilitate automated maintenance and patch management. By opting for openSUSE MicroOS, users can rapidly establish a streamlined environment that is perfect for running containers or any activities that necessitate transactional updates. As a rolling release distribution, it guarantees that all installed software is continuously updated and modern. Moreover, MicroOS offers an offline image option that simplifies the installation process, catering to users who prefer a more straightforward setup. The primary difference between the offline image and the self-install/raw images is that the offline version comes equipped with an installer, whereas the raw and self-install images offer more customization options through combustion or manual configurations post-deployment. Additionally, MicroOS supports the use of a real-time kernel, which significantly boosts performance. Users can experiment with MicroOS in virtual environments on platforms like Xen or KVM, while those using Raspberry Pi or similar system-on-chip devices can benefit from a preconfigured image that seamlessly integrates with combustion for a smooth boot process. This adaptability and range of options further enhance MicroOS's appeal across numerous deployment scenarios, making it a versatile solution for diverse computing needs.

Enterprise-Grade Linux Tailored for Edge-to-Cloud Solutions. This joint open-source venture presents a Debian-based Linux distribution meticulously crafted for applications that operate from edge devices to cloud environments. It ensures consistent performance and stability across a variety of devices, local infrastructure, and cloud services. eLxr provides a secure and resilient distribution, drawing from the advancements made by the open-source community, and includes a reliable schedule for releases and updates that cater to long-term deployments and extended lifecycles. It is particularly well-suited for applications with stringent timing requirements, leveraging preempt-rt kernel configurations to enhance low-latency performance and guarantee that tasks are executed within precise time limits. This methodology significantly enhances determinism and predictability when juxtaposed with standard Linux kernels. eLxr has been engineered with a streamlined footprint, fostering peak performance and resource efficiency while simultaneously reducing potential security vulnerabilities. It incorporates all critical features and functionalities, ensuring efficient utilization of system resources while accommodating a wide range of deployment needs. Consequently, users can anticipate a versatile and high-performing platform that meets a variety of application demands while remaining adaptable to evolving technology landscapes.

Security Onion is a powerful open-source solution designed for intrusion detection, network security monitoring, and log management. It provides a comprehensive set of tools that allow cybersecurity professionals to detect and mitigate potential threats across an organization's network. By combining technologies like Suricata, Zeek, and the Elastic Stack, Security Onion facilitates the gathering, assessment, and real-time visualization of security-related data. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to manage and analyze network traffic, security alerts, and system logs effectively. Moreover, it includes integrated resources for threat hunting, alert triage, and forensic investigations, enabling users to quickly identify potential security breaches. Designed for scalability, Security Onion is suitable for a wide variety of settings, from small businesses to large corporations. Users also benefit from ongoing updates and strong community support, which help them to continually improve their security measures and adapt to new and emerging threats. Overall, Security Onion represents an essential tool for those looking to bolster their network defenses.

Arm Mbed OS is a freely available operating system specifically designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, equipping developers with the essential resources to create advanced IoT devices. This powerful operating system is optimized for smart and connected products that utilize Arm Cortex-M architecture, providing features like machine learning capabilities, secure connectivity options, an RTOS kernel, and drivers for a range of sensors and I/O devices. Tailored for the needs of the Internet of Things, Arm Mbed OS encompasses functionalities in connectivity, machine learning, networking, and security, along with an extensive library of software, development boards, tutorials, and real-world examples. It encourages collaboration within a broad ecosystem, supporting over 70 partners across various sectors, including silicon manufacturers, module developers, cloud service providers, and OEMs, thus broadening the options available for developers. By utilizing the Mbed OS API, developers can produce clean, portable, and easy-to-manage application code while also taking advantage of enhanced security, communication, and machine learning features. This integrated solution not only simplifies the development process but also significantly reduces costs, shortens development time, and mitigates risks. Moreover, Mbed OS facilitates innovation by allowing developers to quickly prototype and confidently deploy IoT solutions, ultimately driving technological advancement in the field. The comprehensive support provided by the Mbed community further enriches the development experience, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced developers alike.

SUSE Linux Enterprise Real Time functions as a real-time operating system designed to reduce latency and improve the predictability and reliability of critical time-sensitive applications, whether they involve monitoring industrial equipment through IoT sensors or managing edge systems that need prompt reactions to external inputs. Numerous industries, including finance, manufacturing, and government, rely on applications that must operate accurately and consistently without fail. For distributed systems to work effectively together, precise time synchronization is essential, not only within individual servers but also across all connected servers. The Precision Time Protocol (PTP) facilitates this synchronization over high-speed networks, achieving remarkable accuracy down to sub-microsecond precision. Furthermore, it supports device interrupt threads, enabling enhancements at the device level, and incorporates hardware latency detectors to ensure that application behavior remains stable. By utilizing SUSE Linux Enterprise Real Time, organizations gain a vital competitive advantage in timing efficiency, which helps ensure that their applications operate reliably and seamlessly. This capability allows businesses to adapt quickly to evolving market demands while upholding exceptional performance standards. Ultimately, the integration of this advanced operating system can lead to significant improvements in operational efficiency and service delivery.

Open-source software combined with a universal router plays a crucial role in making network access more equitable for all. VyOS aims to transform the way individuals connect to networks, empowering them to create the solutions they envision without facing constraints, limitations, or exorbitant costs. We assert that access to the internet is as vital for human progress as essential resources like food, water, air, and healthcare. Founded by engineers with a passion for innovation, VyOS stands as an open-source company dedicated to facilitating unrestricted network access without financial barriers. Our mission is realized through VyOS, leveraging our open-source software and virtual platforms to provide robust solutions. We offer features such as stateful firewalls, zone-based firewalls, and various types of NAT, including one-to-one, one-to-many, and many-to-many configurations. Moreover, our commitment extends to transparency, allowing users to engage in auditing, create customized images, and contribute to the development, with full access to the entire codebase and build toolchain available to all. This collaborative approach not only enhances security but also fosters a community of innovation and shared knowledge.

Dependable servers play a crucial role in reducing customer attrition and facilitating increased server density, which in turn amplifies your profitability. The stability features embedded in CloudLinux OS efficiently address resource spikes, ensuring that your servers can maintain outstanding stability, even when faced with heavy demands. Furthermore, CloudLinux OS provides robust protection against potential attacks by virtualizing users' file systems, which helps prevent any leaks of confidential information. Its cutting-edge kernel-level technology effectively neutralizes all known symbolic link attacks, greatly enhancing the security of your servers. Securing outdated PHP versions is also vital, especially in scenarios where vulnerabilities may be present and patches are absent from the PHP.net community. By leveraging CloudLinux OS, you can substantially increase the number of users on a more reliable server while effectively managing resource constraints for each customer. In addition, you will have the ability to diagnose performance challenges through detailed insights into system bottlenecks, slow database queries, specific functions, or external calls, thereby ensuring optimal server functionality. This comprehensive strategy not only secures your infrastructure but also significantly improves the overall experience for users, promoting long-term satisfaction and loyalty. Ultimately, a stable and secure environment is key to thriving in a competitive market.

AlmaLinux OS stands as a free and open-source enterprise Linux distribution that is community-driven, designed specifically to guarantee long-term stability and deliver a dependable platform for production environments. It ensures a 1:1 binary compatibility with both RHEL® and pre-Stream CentOS, making it an excellent option for those migrating from these systems. The source code and essential tools for constructing AlmaLinux OS are available through our GitHub organization, promoting transparency and collaborative efforts. You can join our vibrant Reddit community to engage with fellow AlmaLinux OS users, where you can stay informed and seek or provide assistance. Additionally, you can participate in live discussions with members of the governance team and AlmaLinux OS developers, where you are welcome to pose questions, share insights, and offer help to others. With complete independence as a free operating system, AlmaLinux OS enjoys an annual financial backing of $1 million from CloudLinux Inc, along with support from various other sponsors. The continuous development and improvement of AlmaLinux OS are collectively overseen by community members, ensuring that the platform grows in alignment with user needs and preferences. The active participation of users is vital for shaping the future of this distribution, reinforcing its dedication to community governance and collaboration. This strong sense of community involvement not only enhances the user experience but also helps drive innovations that meet the demands of an ever-evolving technological landscape.

EuroLinux Desktop signifies a notable leap forward in operating system technology. It harmoniously combines the aesthetic charm and practical features of both Windows® and macOS®, while providing the reliability and security associated with Enterprise Linux distributions. With various enhancements to the Linux user interface, EuroLinux Desktop offers a user-friendly experience for those accustomed to Microsoft® or Apple® systems. Additionally, it assures exceptional security and stability, being built upon the source code of Red Hat® Enterprise Linux® 9, which is extensively employed in critical sectors like finance, telecommunications, and the public sector. This operating system is designed for individuals and organizations migrating from Windows® or macOS®, in search of a sturdy platform that maintains the visual elements of Microsoft® and Apple® products, coupled with long-term technical support. EuroLinux Desktop adeptly meets the needs of public administration, financial services, educational institutions, and general users, rendering it a flexible option for a wide array of applications. Consequently, it serves as an attractive choice for users looking to elevate their computing experience while ensuring they retain a sense of familiarity and security. Furthermore, its adaptability makes it suitable for various industries, enhancing productivity and user satisfaction across the board.