List of the Top 15 Operating Systems for Kasm Workspaces in 2025

Debian is freely accessible online. This webpage outlines multiple techniques for installing the Stable version of Debian. If you have an interest in the Testing or Unstable versions, don't forget to visit our releases page for more information. Several vendors sell the distribution for a small fee, generally under US$5 plus shipping, so checking their sites for international shipping options is advisable. You can try out Debian by using a live version from a CD, DVD, or USB drive, which enables you to test the system without affecting your existing setup. When you are ready, you can start the installation using the intuitive Calamares Installer, available since Debian 10 Buster. Provided that the images match your size, language, and package requirements, this method could be quite effective. For further insights into this installation option, consider reviewing additional resources that can assist in your decision-making process. Careful consideration of your alternatives is crucial to identify the most suitable installation approach for your specific needs, ensuring that you have a positive experience with the Debian operating system.

The open-source ecosystem offers enhanced security features, a broader selection of packages, and state-of-the-art tools, covering environments from cloud to edge. To protect your open-source applications, it is vital to maintain thorough patching practices that span from the kernel through libraries and applications, ensuring compliance with CVEs. Both governmental bodies and auditors have confirmed Ubuntu's compliance with essential standards such as FedRAMP, FISMA, and HITECH. Now is the perfect moment to rethink the possibilities that Linux and open-source technologies can provide. Many organizations collaborate with Canonical to lower the expenses tied to open-source operating systems. By automating various processes, including multi-cloud management, bare metal provisioning, edge clusters, and IoT devices, you can achieve greater efficiency. Ubuntu stands out as an ideal platform for diverse professionals, ranging from mobile app developers and engineering managers to video editors and financial analysts handling intricate models. Its adaptability, reliability, ongoing updates, and extensive libraries make it a preferred choice for development teams worldwide. With a strong community backing and a dedication to ongoing innovation, Ubuntu continues to be a top contender in the realm of open-source solutions, making it an attractive option for both new and experienced users. Additionally, its versatility and user-friendly interface facilitate a smooth transition for those new to open-source software.

Parrot is an international consortium of developers and cybersecurity professionals working together to establish a cohesive set of tools that streamline their efforts, making them more efficient, standardized, dependable, and secure. Central to this endeavor is Parrot OS, a prominent GNU/Linux distribution built on Debian, which is specifically tailored to emphasize security and privacy. It boasts a comprehensive portable laboratory that caters to a wide array of cybersecurity tasks, including penetration testing, digital forensics, and reverse engineering. Furthermore, it supplies all essential tools for software creation and data safeguarding. Consistent updates guarantee that the system remains robust, with regular releases incorporating a variety of hardening and sandboxing enhancements. Users have complete authority over the platform, enabling them to download, share, and scrutinize the source code, as well as to modify it according to their needs. This system is dedicated to respecting your freedom, and this dedication is unwavering. The community is also encouraged to participate actively, fostering its growth while maintaining the core values of security and privacy for everyone involved. Together, they strive to create a safer digital landscape for all users.

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.

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.

openSUSE has unveiled a groundbreaking approach to its software development, resulting in a novel hybrid Linux distribution called Leap. This version utilizes the source code from SUSE Linux Enterprise (SLE), providing an unparalleled level of reliability that is rare among Linux distributions, while also incorporating community-driven innovations to deliver an optimal stable experience for users, developers, and system administrators. Current openSUSE users can seamlessly upgrade to Leap by booting from a DVD or USB and selecting the upgrade option, or they can opt for an 'Online Upgrade' that can be executed with just a few simple commands. Leap embraces a conventional stability model, releasing a new version each year and offering continuous security updates and bug fixes between those releases. These characteristics make Leap particularly attractive for server environments, yet it is also well-suited for desktop users due to its minimal maintenance demands. Additionally, the compatibility of openSUSE Leap with SUSE Linux Enterprise not only bolsters its stability but also provides users the option to transition to an enterprise solution when necessary, thereby facilitating a smooth path for future growth and support. This unique blend of features positions Leap as an excellent choice for those in search of a dependable and powerful Linux operating system, appealing to both casual users and professionals alike. Ultimately, Leap's innovative design and user-friendly nature make it a standout option in the world of Linux distributions.

Fedora CoreOS is a streamlined operating system that automatically updates and is specifically built to securely host containerized applications at scale. It is available on multiple platforms, with expectations of additional options coming soon. Fedora CoreOS (FCOS) offers three separate update streams: stable, testing, and next; while it is generally recommended to stick with the stable stream, using the testing and next streams on some instances is encouraged to provide valuable feedback. When automating Fedora CoreOS installations, interacting with stream metadata becomes necessary. Even though Fedora CoreOS supports automatic in-place updates, it is advisable to set up new machines with the most recent images available. Importantly, rather than offering a distinct installation disk, Fedora CoreOS creates instances from a universal disk image that is configured during the initial boot using Ignition. The entire operating system is based on open-source and free software principles, allowing not only cost-free usage but also the ability to share, adapt, and remix it as per your requirements. This level of customization and openness presents Fedora CoreOS as an attractive choice for developers and organizations seeking a resilient and versatile platform. Additionally, the community behind Fedora CoreOS frequently collaborates to enhance its features, further ensuring it remains aligned with modern technological needs.

Oracle Linux offers a robust and open operating system environment that integrates virtualization, management, and cloud-native computing tools, all within a single support framework. It ensures complete binary compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux, which allows for smooth application execution. Additionally, you can explore a catalog that features information about independent software vendors (ISVs) that have confirmed their applications are suitable for use with Oracle Linux and its virtualization options. Applications certified on Oracle Linux are designed to operate seamlessly across multiple environments, including on-premises setups, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, and various other cloud services. Be sure to join the Oracle Tux Tech Talk webinar on July 28, where you can learn how to benchmark performance, delve into the benefits of the Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel (UEK), and discover which workloads gain from its improvements. This informative session is set to provide you with essential knowledge for enhancing your Linux applications, making it a valuable opportunity for both new and experienced users alike. Don't miss out on the chance to advance your understanding of these powerful tools.

Raspberry Pi Imager provides an efficient and user-friendly way to install Raspberry Pi OS and a selection of other operating systems onto a microSD card, preparing it for use with your Raspberry Pi device. To get a clear sense of the installation steps, take a look at our concise video tutorial that lasts just 45 seconds. Start by downloading and installing Raspberry Pi Imager on a computer that has an SD card reader. After that, insert the microSD card that you plan to use for your Raspberry Pi into the reader and open Raspberry Pi Imager. Users have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of operating systems offered by both Raspberry Pi and various external sources, making it easy to download and install them as necessary. This utility simplifies the entire setup process, thereby improving your overall experience with Raspberry Pi. By utilizing Raspberry Pi Imager, even beginners can seamlessly transition into the world of Raspberry Pi without any complications.

As your innovation transitions into a physical product, the Raspberry Pi compute module emerges as a powerful, industrial-grade system-on-module that acts as the central processing unit for a wide range of hardware applications, including robotics and server infrastructures. Nowadays, open source has established itself as the key driver of software advancement across diverse areas—spanning from cloud computing and edge devices to containerization and the Internet of Things (IoT); this includes applications in artificial intelligence, machine learning, autonomous vehicles, and nanosatellite technology, with major companies worldwide utilizing open source to further technological progress. The Raspberry Pi is built on the ARM instruction set, akin to the architecture found in Android and iOS smartphones, as well as the most recent Mac computers. While it might appear similar to Ubuntu operating on a conventional PC, the distinctive architecture and device integration present a uniquely innovative approach. This evolution not only equips developers with powerful tools but also cultivates a collaborative space for ongoing technological enhancement, ultimately driving the industry toward remarkable advancements. Embracing this open-source philosophy allows for a shared pool of knowledge and resources, empowering a diverse community to innovate collectively.

Designed to meet the needs of various settings, this solution includes a wide array of crucial business applications aimed at boosting employee productivity. Built on the reliable SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, the SLE Desktop integrates sophisticated security features that protect vital enterprise data effectively. It functions as a flexible and secure desktop operating system, particularly suited for environments where reliability, ease of maintenance, and consistent updates are essential. Bundled with numerous high-quality applications such as a web browser, email client, and collaboration tools, it plays a key role in enhancing employee efficiency. Its strong security infrastructure, which features an application security system, built-in VPN, and antivirus protection, offers formidable defenses against viruses and malware. Moreover, it benefits from SUSE's enterprise-level support and maintenance services, adding further value. Users enjoy a considerable degree of customization to tailor the system to their unique business requirements, making it a versatile option for any organization. Additionally, this desktop solution not only emphasizes security but also equips users with adaptive tools that integrate smoothly into their daily workflows, ensuring a holistic approach to operational efficiency. Ultimately, it stands out as a remarkable choice for organizations aiming to enhance productivity while maintaining robust security.

Kali Linux is an open-source distribution based on Debian, crafted specifically for a range of information security tasks such as penetration testing, security research, computer forensics, and reverse engineering. Although any Linux distribution can be modified to include penetration testing tools, this often necessitates significant setup and configuration time. Kali Linux is designed to alleviate much of this burden, allowing security professionals to concentrate on their work immediately. Users can utilize Kali from nearly any platform, including mobile devices, Docker, ARM architectures, Amazon Web Services, the Windows Subsystem for Linux, virtual machines, or even directly on hardware. The presence of metapackages that are tailored for specific security operations, along with a well-documented ISO customization process, makes it easy to create a version of Kali that meets individual requirements. This adaptability makes Kali a suitable option for both seasoned experts and those new to the field, as the extensive documentation provides essential support for all users. Furthermore, the vibrant community engaged with Kali Linux plays a crucial role in its ongoing development, continuously enhancing the resources and tools available to its user base. This collaborative effort not only improves the software but also fosters a sense of belonging among its users.

CIQ enables individuals to achieve remarkable feats by delivering cutting-edge and reliable software infrastructure solutions tailored for various computing requirements. Their offerings span from foundational operating systems to containers, orchestration, provisioning, computing, and cloud applications, ensuring robust support for every layer of the technology stack. By focusing on stability, scalability, and security, CIQ crafts production environments that benefit both customers and the broader community. Additionally, CIQ proudly serves as the founding support and services partner for Rocky Linux, while also pioneering the development of an advanced federated computing stack. This commitment to innovation continues to drive their mission of empowering technology users worldwide.

Alpine Linux is a distinctive, non-commercial general-purpose distribution designed for advanced users who emphasize security, simplicity, and efficient use of resources. Constructed with musl libc and busybox, it achieves a compact size and improved performance when compared to traditional GNU/Linux distributions. A container can function using as little as 8 MB of memory, while a minimal installation on disk requires approximately 130 MB of storage. Users enjoy not only a full Linux environment but also access to a broad range of packages in its repository. The binary packages are optimized and modular, allowing for enhanced customization during installations, thus ensuring the system remains lightweight and efficient. Alpine Linux takes pride in its straightforward nature, creating a user experience that is minimally intrusive. It operates with its own package manager, apk, and employs the OpenRC init system along with script-driven configurations. This methodology results in a clear and uncomplicated Linux environment, devoid of unnecessary complexities, making it a popular option for those who appreciate efficiency and clarity in their operating system. Moreover, the emphasis on simplicity enables users to focus on their work without being sidetracked by superfluous features or components, ultimately fostering greater productivity.

CentOS Linux is a community-supported distribution that leverages resources provided publicly through Red Hat and CentOS repositories, specifically designed for Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). The main objective of CentOS is to preserve functional compatibility with RHEL, while the CentOS Project emphasizes the modification of packages to remove any branding or visual identifiers from the upstream vendor. Available at no charge, CentOS can be freely shared and redistributed by users. Each CentOS version is backed by support until the related RHEL version concludes its general support lifecycle. New CentOS versions are typically released after the rebuilding of new RHEL versions, occurring approximately every 6 to 12 months for minor updates and extending over several years for major releases. The rebuild process can take anywhere from a few weeks for minor updates to several months for significant changes, ensuring timely availability of new features. This structured approach allows users to enjoy a secure, reliable, and easily manageable Linux environment that is consistent and reproducible, ultimately nurturing a robust community around its usage and development. Additionally, the emphasis on community involvement encourages collaboration and innovation among users and developers alike.