Discover the World of Debian: A Comprehensive Overview.
Debian OS?
Debian OS is known for its commitment to free and open-source software, as well as its strict adherence to the Debian Free Software Guidelines. This dedication to freedom and openness has earned Debian a strong reputation within the open-source community.
One of the key features of Debian is its package management system, which allows users to easily install, update, and remove software packages.
The Debian package manager, known as APT (Advanced Package Tool), simplifies the process of managing software on the system and ensures that dependencies are resolved efficiently.
In addition to its stability and security, Debian is also praised for its extensive software repository, which contains thousands of pre-compiled software packages that cover a wide range of applications and utilities. This vast collection of software makes it easy for users to find and install the tools they need for their specific tasks.
Debian is free and open source and user friendly, based on Unix system. Debian boasts a massive repository of free software and developed by programmers community.
Similar to RHEL, debian is parent distribution and many operating systems such as ubuntu, linux mint, kali linux are based on it. This operating systems are called Debian-based distributions.
Debian distributions are also widely used in servers and desktops. Debian emphasizes stability, and the largest and most comprehensive software source belongs to this family.
Past of Debian
In 1993, on August 16, Ian Murdock introduced debian. The goal of this new concept was non-commercial, free distribution and in line with the principles of the GNU and Linux projects.
Many people thought that the Debian project which several programmers presented, would fail. But contrary to expectations, Debian thrived.
This distribution in less than 10 years became known as the most unique Linux distribution. so far more than 120 distributions based on it have been released, and there are more than 59,000 software packages for debian.
The founder of the free software movement, Richard Stallman, due to disagreed with some of Debian’s explanations and designed Virtual Richard M. Stallman software. This software reviewed debian packages and reported non-free software.
The name of Debian is a combination of the first name of the founder and his ex-wife (Debra Lynn) (Debra Lynn + Ian Murdock).
Applications of Debian
Debian supports installation and operation on a wide range of processors across various architectures, including 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Intel, AMD, ARM, and IBM z series mainframe eServer computers.
Debian operates with the GNOME desktop environment and incorporates essential applications like OpenOffice.org, the Evolution email system, Iceweasel (a Firefox variant), media players, photo viewers, text editors, and PDF viewers.
Debian boasts a robust graphical interface alongside a user-friendly command line terminal, providing users with both powerful graphical tools and convenient command line functionality.
Advantages
Stability: All Debian packages are tested before being included in its repositories. Debian also has a slower release cycle than other distributions, and each version is supported for a long time. So it guarantees a high level of stability.
Security: Debian regularly provides security updates for its open source software to quickly fix software security bugs and prevent possible vulnerabilities.
An established linux distribution: Debian is one of the oldest and established Linux distributions that many popular distributions such as Ubuntu are based on Debian.
Server compatibility: You can use the original version of Debian on server without needing a special version or modification. It is a great choice for a Linux VPS.
Open source: being open source is an advantage that users can apply any changes to the operating system.
Strong support: Debian is not just a Linux operating system, this software is produced by hundreds of volunteers worldwide. You can still be part of the Debian community even if you are not a programmer.
Disadvantages
- Delay in updating stable versions (Debian provides stable versions every 1-3 years)
- Having a slow release cycle and outdated software
- The complexity of the installation and configuration process and need for more technical knowledge
- Don’t support Delta updates such as Delta RPM
Types of Debian
Debian has been introduced in 3 versions, which we will explain in the following.
Stable version
The stable version is the latest official version of Debian that has high stability and security. it is incompatible with new software because of Debian’s slow release cycle (1-3 years).
So, if you are looking for the latest and greatest software packages, the stable version is not the best choice.
Testing version
This version of Debian is continuously expanding its software packages while awaiting stabilization.
The Testing version serves for testing errors and offers the latest software enhancements. Additionally, it receives more updates compared to the stable version.
However, its drawback is the inability to receive security packages promptly. The latest beta version of Debian is Bullseye.
Unstable version
The Debian OS development process culminates in the unstable or sid version, serving as an experimental platform for ongoing development.
In the testing version, users provide feedback, while the unstable version of Debian empowers developers to actively contribute code and shape the success of this testing iteration.
Hence, we advocate for this version among developers, cautioning that it is unsuitable and unreliable for daily use.
Features
- Quality Control
- Very high software diversity
- Support for different architectures and processors
- High stability and security
- Having different versions in terms of an operating system, such as live versions or installable versions
- Utilizing the GNU core
- including more than 29,000 applications
- being Free
- Being graphic and having an attractive environment for the user.
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