Linux timeline

  • GNU/LINUX

    GNU/LINUX
    Linux is a free, Unix-like OS that powers everything from phones to supercomputers. It combines GNU tools and Linus Torvalds' kernel, all open-source that anyone can use, modify, and share it freely.
  • SLS Linux 1.5

    SLS Linux 1.5
    Slackware is a Linux distro created by Patrick Volkerding in 1993. Inspired by Softlanding Linux, it's the oldest surviving distro and influenced others like early SUSE. It focuses on stability, simplicity, and being the most 'Unix-like' Linux.
  • Debian GNU/Linux

    Debian GNU/Linux
    Debian GNU/Linux is a free OS launched in 1993. Initially a GNU/Linux project, Debian now also supports other kernels like Hurd and BSD. Run by volunteers, it’s known for stability and being the foundation of many distros
  • Debian

    Debian
    Debian is a volunteer-run project maintaining a free GNU/Linux OS. It delivers software as .deb packages for multiple architectures. Founded in 1993 by Ian Murdock, its name combines 'Deb' (his girlfriend Deborah) and 'Ian'.
  • SUSE Linux

    SUSE Linux
    SUSE Linux is a global Linux distro originally based on Slackware. Known for its user-friendly setup and management, it features handy tools like the YaST control center for easy installation and system configuration.
  • Red Hat Commercial Linux

    Red Hat Commercial Linux
    The first versions of Red Hat Linux were called Red Hat Commercial Linux. The initial stable release launched in May 1995, pioneering the RPM package format. It later inspired distros like Mandriva and Yellow Dog Linux.
  • Conectiva

    Conectiva
    Conectiva developed a range of open-source products and services, including Linux-based software, embedded systems, OEM programs, porting tools, training kits, and Linux Magazine—all aimed at meeting growing market demand.
  • Mandriva Linux

    Mandriva Linux
    The first version, released in July 1998, was based on Red Hat Linux 5.1 and KDE 1. Over time, it evolved into a fully independent distro—Mandriva Linux—focused on user-friendliness for beginners. Created by Gaël Duval, it introduced unique system configuration tools.
  • corel lunix.

    corel lunix.
    Corel Linux was a Debian-based distro created by Corel (makers of CorelDRAW) in the late 1990s. It featured KDE and aimed to port Corel's apps to Linux as part of their open-source push.
  • Crux

    Crux
    CRUX is a lightweight, minimalist GNU/Linux distro optimized for x86-64, designed for experienced users. True to the KISS principle, it keeps things simple with a BSD-style init system, .tar.gz packages, and a small, curated software collection.
  • Gentoo Linux

    Gentoo Linux
    Gentoo Linux is a source-based distro designed for experienced users. Its name comes from the Gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua) - a nod to Linux's penguin mascot, Tux.
  • Puppy Linux

    Puppy Linux
    It's a self-booting live CD with a window manager and essential apps for basic computing tasks. The ISO (50-180MB depending on version) turns any machine into a workstation with internet tools, office software, multimedia editors, and chat applications.
  • Knoppix linux

    Knoppix linux
    Knoppix is a Debian-based live Linux distro created by Klaus Knopper. While it now defaults to LXDE, users can select other desktop environments (GNOME, IceWM, etc.) at boot. Gnoppix is a variant that uses Gnome.
  • Centos

    Centos
    CentOS is a free, open-source OS based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), offering enterprise-class software with similar functionality. Known for being robust, stable, and user-friendly, it provides 10 years of support per release starting from version 5.
  • VectorLinux

    VectorLinux
    VectorLinux is a desktop-oriented Slackware-based distribution for x86 systems (32-bit, with an experimental 64-bit version). Originally created by Canadian developer Robert S. Lange, it's now maintained by an expanding international community.
  • Fedora

    Fedora
    Fedora is a general-purpose RPM-based Linux distribution known for its stability. Developed by an international community of engineers, designers, and beta-testers, it's backed by Red Hat and serves as a proving ground for new technologies.
  • ubuntu

    ubuntu
    Ubuntu is an open-source OS based on Debian, designed for desktops and servers (Intel/AMD/ARM). Focused on user-friendliness, it offers a polished experience for everyday users while exclusively using free and open-source software.
  • edubuntu

    edubuntu
    Edubuntu is an Ubuntu-based distro developed with educators worldwide, featuring LTSP client architecture and specialized educational tools for students aged 6-18. Until version 8.10, it offered free CDs via ShipIt service
  • FoX Linux

    FoX Linux
    FoX Linux was an Italian Fedora-based distro that fit on a single CD. It featured KDE desktop environment and supported 32-bit i686 architecture.
  • xubuntu

    xubuntu
    Xubuntu is an official Ubuntu derivative maintained by the community and recognized by Canonical. Designed for efficiency, it's ideal for low-resource systems or users seeking a lean desktop environment. The current LTS release is 18.04 'Bionic Beaver' (April 2018), featuring 5-year support.