Comparison of Linux distributions

Wikipedia: Comparison of Linux distributions.


Each Distro has a package managing system, and uses a package format, i.e:

deb for Debian,
rpm for Fedora(Red Hat),
tgz for Slackware,


Package management tools:

Debian: apt, aptitude

Fedora: rpm, yum

OpenSuse: rpm, zipper

Mandrake: rpm, urpm

Gentoo: emerge


Some distros act as base for other derived distros:

Debian (base) -> Ubuntu

Fedora (base) -> Centos


Some distros are backed by an enterprise:

Ubuntu by Canonical Ltd.

Fedora by Red Hat


Most distros distribute binary packages, but Gentoo distribute source code files which you compile in your system.


Linux from Scratch is a guide to build your own GNU/Linux based system.

LiveDistro List

Easiest way to begin with Linux based systems is using a Live CD or Live USB distribution.

LiveDistro is a generic term for an operating system distribution that is executed upon boot, without previous installation on a hard drive. In fact, a hard drive is not needed at all.

What in other distros would be stored in hard disk, is stored in RAM memory. That cuts down on the RAM available to applications, reducing performance somewhat. (Is recommended a minimum of 256 MB RAM)

For a list of LiveDistros you can search at:

• List of LiveDistros


• Comparison of Linux LiveDistros


• www.livecdlist.com

I have tested Ubuntu and Knoppix.


Other insteresting links:

Linux Live Scripts How to build your own LiveDistro.
HOWTO build a LiveCD from scratch (gentoo-wiki).