Linux distros hierachy

Linux distributions have a hierarchical structure based on their lineage and the package management system they use. Here's an overview of the hierarchy and relationships between Debian, Ubuntu, and other distributions:

1. Linux

• Kernel: The core of all Linux distributions, developed by Linus Torvalds.

• GNU/Linux: Most Linux distributions combine the Linux kernel with GNU tools and utilities.

2. Major Families and Lineages

Linux distributions are grouped based on their origins. The major families include:

Debian-Based Distributions

• Debian:
  
  

  • One of the oldest and most influential distributions.

  • Uses the APT package management system with .deb files.

  • Known for its stability and free software philosophy.

• Ubuntu:
  
  

  • Based on Debian.

  • Developed by Canonical, with a focus on user-friendliness.

  • Offers various flavors like:

    • Ubuntu Desktop: For personal computers.

    • Ubuntu Server: For servers.

    • Kubuntu: Ubuntu with KDE.

    • Xubuntu: Lightweight Ubuntu with XFCE.

  • Derivatives of Ubuntu:

    • Linux Mint: Ubuntu-based with user-friendly tweaks.

    • Pop!_OS: Optimized for developers and gamers by System76.

    • Zorin OS: Focused on providing a Windows-like experience.

Red Hat-Based Distributions

• Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL):
  
  

  • Commercial Linux distribution, focusing on enterprise use.

  • Uses the YUM or DNF package management system with .rpm files.

• Fedora:
  
  

  • Community-driven distribution backed by Red Hat.

  • Focuses on innovation and cutting-edge features.

• CentOS:
  
  

  • Originally a free clone of RHEL, now transitioning to CentOS Stream.

• Rocky Linux / AlmaLinux:
  
  

  • Community-driven replacements for CentOS after its shift to CentOS Stream.

Arch-Based Distributions

• Arch Linux:
  
  

  • Rolling-release distribution for advanced users.

  • Minimal and highly customizable.

  • Uses pacman as its package manager.

• Manjaro:
  
  

  • User-friendly Arch-based distribution with pre-configured desktops.

Gentoo-Based Distributions

• Gentoo:
  
  

  • Source-based distribution, offering extreme customization.

  • Requires packages to be compiled locally.

• Calculate Linux:
  
  

  • Gentoo derivative designed for desktops, servers, and clusters.

Other Notable Families

• Slackware: One of the oldest Linux distributions, known for simplicity.

• SUSE:

  • OpenSUSE: Community-driven distribution.

  • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES): Enterprise-focused.

• Independent:

  • Void Linux: Built from scratch with its own runit init system.

  • Solus: Designed for desktop use, focusing on simplicity.

3. Hierarchy Summary

Linux Kernel

 ├── Debian

 │    ├── Ubuntu

 │    │    ├── Linux Mint

 │    │    ├── Pop!_OS

 │    │    └── Zorin OS

 │    └── Pure Debian Derivatives

 ├── Red Hat (RHEL)

 │    ├── Fedora

 │    ├── CentOS

 │    ├── Rocky Linux

 │    └── AlmaLinux

 ├── Arch

 │    ├── Manjaro

 │    └── Other Arch Derivatives

 ├── Gentoo

 │    └── Calculate Linux

 ├── Slackware

 │    └── Slackware-Based Distros

 └── Independent (e.g., Void, Solus)

This hierarchy demonstrates how distributions are related based on their package managers, philosophies, and design goals.