Linux Distributions Directory: RedHat, Knoppix, Suse, Debian

Convert PCs to linux thin clients with 2X ThinClientServer
[Back to the Menu in english]	[Zurueck zum Menue in deutsch]

[Classics]	[Newbies]	[Live CDs]	[Rescue CDs]	[Floppy Linux]
[Experts]	[Power PC]	[Embedded Linux]	[Linux ISOs]	[Misc]

Classics / Most well-known

[Debian GNU/Linux] - is a free operating system. Most of the basic OS tools come from the GNU project; hence the name GNU/Linux. Debian GNU/Linux provides more than a pure OS: it comes with more than 15490 packages, precompiled software bundled up in a nice format for easy installation on your machine.

[Slackware] - is an advanced Linux operating system, designed with the twin goals of ease of use and stability as top priorities. Including the latest popular software while retaining a sense of tradition, providing simplicity and ease of use alongside flexibility and power, Slackware brings the best of all worlds to the table.

[SUSE LINUX] - "With its wealth of features, stability, and its efficient security features to protect you against unauthorized access, SUSE LINUX is the most comprehensive, stable, and secure operating system on the market. No matter whether you are a newcomer or a system administrator, you are sure to benefit from the new features that make life with Linux easier". [SUSE Website in deutsch].

[Red Hat Enterprise Linux] - "is the premier operating system for open source computing. It's sold by annual subscription, runs on seven system architectures, is certified by top enterprise software and hardware vendors, and backed by a Red Hat Network subscription and up to 24x7 support with one-hour response". [Red Hat Website in deutsch].

[Novell] - has been developing great networking services that sit on top of the NetWare kernel. They're now offering these same services on a Linux kernel too. Additional Novell has entered into an agreement to acquire SUSE.

[Fedora Project] - is a Red-Hat-sponsored and community- supported open source project. It is also a proving ground for new technology that may eventually make its way into Red Hat products. It is not a supported product of Red Hat, Inc.

[Gentoo Linux] - is a versatile and fast, completely free distribution for x86, PowerPC, Sparc and Sparc64 that's geared towards Linux power users. Unlike other distros, Gentoo has an advanced package management system called Portage. Portage is a true ports system in the tradition of BSD ports.

[White Box Linux] - is based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux. It retains enough compatibility with Red Hat to allow easy upgrades and to retain compatibility with their Errata srpms. Being based of RHEL3 means that a machine should be able to avoid the upgrade treadmill, or more briefly, to fill the gap between Fedora and RHEL.

[Mandriva Linux] - formerly known as Mandrakelinux, is a Linux OS which specializes in ease-of-use for both servers and the home/office. It is freely available in many languages throughout the world. Mandrake was created in 1998 with the goal of making Linux easier to use for everyone.

[Turbo Linux] - is the leading supplier of the Linux operating system in Asia Pacific. "Turbolinux has built and maintained a leading global position as a provider of Linux distributions as a platform for further innovations that make enterprise computing simpler and more cost-effective".

Commercial links

Asterisk on Windows: IP PBX phone system just like Asterisk, but for Windows, much easier to configure!
Acunetix - web application security software: Check your website security with Acunetix Web Vulnerability Scanner.
Voip Wonder - all VOIP related.
Read about VOIP and SIP News, Phone Systems & Nick Galea's news page on IT
3CX - developers of IP PBX, VOIP Phone System software: 3CX VOIP Phone System for Windows
IP PBX FAQ
Get news on technical world
Sip Info - all information about SIP
PBX Rules- more on IP PBX
VOIP Technical Newsbits - interesting page about VOIP

Newbies / Easy to use

[WinLinux] - was designed and built to be the easiest to use Linux system. Its installation and configuration tasks are performed directly from Windows using graphical tools.

[Simply GNUstep] - is a Linux/GNU distribution aimed at providing a user focused, OpenStep feeling, from bootup on. It is a completely independent OS, not based on any other.

[Linspire / Lindows] - is a full-featured operating system that delivers the power, stability and cost- savings of Linux with the ease of windows environment.

[Independence] - is a Linux distribution aiming to make Linux easier to use and more attractive for non-nerds. It is developed by volunteers on a not for profit basis.

[Peanut Linux] - is especially made for those new to Linux. Peanut comes jam packed with some of the most newest LINUX software (only 340 Mb to download).

[SOT Linux] - is the leading distributor of Linux in Finland. SOT provides a comprehensive knowledge of Linux, from the system's kernel to office applications.

[Onebase Linux] - Its speciality is an advanced package manager called Onebase Linux Management (OLM). It supports both binary and source installations.

[Resala Linux] - is a single CD distribution based on Fedora Core Project. Its main objectiv is to make it easy for normal users to use Linux in the Arabic speaking countries.

[Xandros] - is developing a customized Debian-based Linux distribution that is derived from the Corel LINUX OS.

[PhatLINUX] - is a simple, easy to use Linux operating system that runs on a Windows 95/98 partition.

[Lycoris Desktop/LX] - loads preconfigured for Internet access, office productivity, multimedia, entertainment, and more. It's easy-to-use, affordable, and open.

[kmLinux] - wird vom Landesbildungsserver Schleswig- Holstein in enger Zusammenarbeit mit dem Verein Freie Software und Bildung entwickelt.

[Ark Linux] - is a Linux distribution designed especially for desktop use, primarily for people without prior Linux experience. Ark Linux is designed to be easy to use.

[EIS/FAIR] - ist ein einfach zu installierender Internet-Server, der als zugrundeliegendes Betriebssystem Linux verwendet. Es wird ausschliesslich freie Software verwendet.

[UserLinux] - is based from Debian, but streamlined to a smaller set of default applications.

[CollegeLinux] - is based on Slackware with a user friendly installer and interface.

[SimplyMEPIS] - is a (pre-configured for simplicity and ease of use) Debian based desktop Linux that runs from Live-CD (allows you to test and try the software before you install to your harddrive), but is also easy to install. Installation wizard guides you through simple installation step-by-step.

[Santa Fe Desktop Linux] - is to GNOME as SimplyMEPIS is to KDE. Also engineered to be easy-to-use, with a pre-configured GNOME 2.6 desktop, Santa Fe is a Debian derivative that runs off a live CD, but is also available as a commercial version, that can also be installed to a hard disk.

[SphinxOS] - ist eine auf Debian basierende Distribution, die fuer den deutschen Sprachraum zugeschnitten ist (Handbuch und Support in deutsch). SphinxOS wurde fuer den Linux- unerfahrenen Anwender konzipiert.

[Underground Desktop] - is a GNU/Linux distribution targeted to the desktop user, featuring a graphical installation and is based on Debian 'unstable'.

[Freedows] - is a Brazilian distribution that looks almost identical to Windows XP. Freedows isn't free, except for its Lite version, which is a limited version.

[Lorma Linux] - has been optimized and customized to meet the needs of educational institutions and its students. Lorma is the first derivative of Fedora Core to be released.

[ALT Linux Junior] - is easy to install and use. It is designed for office and home workstations. It implements support for a wide spectrum of hardware, manufactured by many well- known producers, including soft modems (winmodems), 3D graphics accelerators, printers, and many other devices.

[ALT Linux Compact] - includes the most reliable and functional user applications needed to perform everyday tasks, to work in the Internet or in the local network, to view and edit office documents, to represent and process multimedia data.

[Linare Linux] - "Linare gives home users a more user- friendly and reliable operating system".

[Aurox] - is a Polish distribution that emphasizes better hardware support and support for European localizations.

[University Linux] - is a 2-disk mini distribution that loads directly on Win PC file systems. University Linux is easily installed on almost any PC having 8 MBytes of free drive space and at least 8 MBytes of RAM. With University Linux you can quickly create a dedicated TCP/IP server for your entire PC network.

[YES Linux] - is a turnkey distribution that is specifically targeted to the SOHO. It provides a way to have a complete internet presence including but not limited to a web and email server up and running in under 10 minutes. YES Linux provides this by being a competely integrated system with all major adminstrative tasks being completed using a Web Browser.

[Schoolserver- & Terminalserver Distributions] - K12LTSP, Skolelinux, kmLinux, kmLinuxTSE - der Terminalserver fuer Schulen, Linux Terminal Server Project (ltsp), ....

Live CDs

[Knoppix] - is a bootable Debian based CD with a collection of GNU/Linux software and automatic hardware detection. It is not necessary to install anything on a hard disk.

[Gnoppix] - is a linux live cd based upon Debian GNU/Linux 3.0 (woody). It can be compared to Knoppix but GNOPPIX uses GNOME as desktop environment.

[Xfld] - is "Xfce live demo", a modified Knoppix that features an up-to-date Xfce as desktop environment.

[Knoppix 64] - is a 64 bit debian based release for the 64 bits AMD machines, remastered from Knoppix.

[ClusterKnoppix] - is basically a modified Knoppix with the openMosix kernel.

[Knoppix-PPC] - Fabian Franz' prototype of Knoppix for apple / mac.

[Quantian] - is an extension of Knoppix and clusterKnoppix from which it takes its base system of about 2.0 gigabytes of software. However, Quantian differs from Knoppix by adding a set of scientific programs.

[Freeduc CD] - is based on KNOPPIX/Debian. The idea of the live Freeduc system on CD-ROM is to let the end user - mainly teacher - to easily access the free education application.

[grml] - is based on Knoppix. grml includes a collection of GNU/Linux software especially for users of texttools and system administrators. You can use grml as a rescue system, for analyzing systems/networks or as a working environment.

[Knoppix for Kids] - was created by OSEF in conjunction with Tux4Kids. It's goal is to bridge the information gap between educators and technology professions regarding Free and Open Source Software on the educational desktop.

[Kanotix] - is a linux distribution, which runs completely from CD based on Knoppix technology using Debian/sid. Therefore Kanotix is optimal for HD Install.

[Bioknoppix] - is a customized distribution of Knoppix Linux Live CD with open source applications targeted for the molecular biologist.

[Sulix] - is a Knoppix based Distribution from Hungary.

[SkoleLinux] - is a Knoppix based Distribution from Norway.

[Kurumin] - is a Brazilian Knoppix based Distribution.

[Miolux] - is a Brazilian Knoppix based Distribution too.

[KnoppiXMAME] - is a Bootable OS on a CD for running the popular Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator.

[Cool Linux CD] - is a full functional linux system with XFree86 and some free and demo soft.

[Devil-Linux] - was originally intended to be a dedicated firewall/router but now Devil-Linux can also be used as a server for many applications. Attaching an optional hard drive is easy, and many network services are included.

[Eagle Linux] - does not use a compressed file system for standard files, making file access faster. It detects and mounts your IDE and SCSI hard drives in write mode, allowing read/write media access.

[MoviX] - The MoviX project is a series of three different tiny Linux CD distributions containing all the software to boot from a CD and play multimedia files through the MPlayer, the best multimedia player in the Unix world.

[WOMP!] - is a micro linux distribution focussed on multimedia, it takes only 13 to 18 MB on a bootable CD, and allow playing multimedia files (video/audio/image) without installing any software on the computer's hard drive.

[Jollix] - is designed for games and multimedia purposes; it's basis is the famous Gentoo Linux, that is capable of automatic hardware detection and configuration.

[dyne:bolic] - is shaped on the needs of media activists, artists and creatives, being a practical tool for multimedia production.

[GeeXboX] - is a Live CD with the main purpose to play DivX movies with the MPlayer. Nearly every kind of media files can be played from GeeXboX.

[LinuxConsole] - is a a live & modular Linux distro. You can start LinuxConsole from CDROM, Hard disk, floppy, or USB key (Flash Disk).

[LIVE CD for Telemetry/Linux] - is a CD with lots of software that can be run directly off the CD. An attempt was made to have hardware detected and drivers loaded without any special configuration. The CD allows an easy installation of Telemetry/Linux with a comfortable tool set.

[ByzantineOS] - is a software Internet Appliance with a home entertainment bias. It is based on a networked Linux distribution / bootable system with Mozilla providing access to a range of services and applications. ByzantineOS fits in 32MB (or 48MB) of media and should work on any PC.

[Damn Small Linux] - is a business card size (50MB) Live CD Linux distribution. The applications on it are the best compromises between function and size.

[Slax] - is based on Slackware GNU Linux. There are also available all scripts and source codes, which can be used to build your own live CD.

[VTA-Linux] - is an Argentinian Distributor that offers two Slackware based Live CDs: portOS comes with KDE, Xfce and Fluxbox, Mozilla and aMSN. pinOS is a mini Live-CD with FluxBox as WM, Links and Dillo. It fits on a 50 MB mini cd.

[Blin] - is a Slackware-based Ukrainian live CD with support for Ukrainian and Russian. It is designed for novice users who have just started using Linux as well as for experienced system integrators.

[Feather Linux] - is a small Knoppix remaster and tries to include software which most people would use every day on their desktop.

[eLearnix] - is for people wondering what linux is like. eLearnix lets you try linux without making any hard drive changes. eLearnix is a fun way to learn Linux.

[MEPIS] - is a desktop Linux that runs from Live-CD, but is also easy to install. Installation wizard guides you through simple installation step-by-step.

[Vector Linux 4.0 Live-CD] - simply pop in the CD, make sure your bios is set to boot from the CDROM and go. The CD takes care of the rest hardware detection and everything.

[Gentoo Linux - Live CDs] - Gentoo Linux is a versatile and fast, completely free x86-based Linux distribution geared towards developers and network professionals.

[Gentoo LiveCDs for the PowerPC] - Simply boot one on your NewWorld PowerPC (iMac or newer) and enjoy the great performance and functionality of Gentoo Linux/PPC.

[SuSE LINUX for i386 Live-Eval] - is the live-eval version of SuSE Linux.

[Mandrakesoft Move] - Personal data and configuration settings may be stored on a dedicated USB Key.

[MiniCD] - is designed to run off 185 MB CDs. It features automatic hardware detection, a full desktop (KDE) and is based on Mandrake Linux.

[GNUstep live CD] - features GNUstep, that is an API for creating applications using the Objective C language, published by NeXT Computer Inc (now Apple Inc).

[PCLinuxOS] - is an English only live cd initially based on Mandrake Linux. You can also install PCLinuxOS to your hard drive with an easy to use livecd-installer. Additional applications can be added or removed from your hard drive using a friendly apt-get frontend via The Synaptic Software Manager.

[OnebaseGo] - is a portable OS that comes in a CD with all the features of Onebase Linux. It is very handy for travellers and apart from being used for presentations, demos it has the capability to perform as a full-blown operating system. With OnebaseGo you can have a hard-disk installed Onebase Linux within 10 mins.

[Morphix] - is a modular distribution, with live-cd support. Also, installing Morphix on a harddisk is a breeze, if you want to. ISO's with XFCE, Gnome, KDE, a game iso and a large number of derivatives are available.

[Sentry Firewall CD] - is a CDROM-Based Firewall/ Server/ IDS. You boot from this CD, and with a few preconfigured files on a floppy (on which you've flipped the write-protect switch to read-only) you have a running firewall.

[Local Area Security] - (aka L.A.S. Linux) contains over 200 information security and administration related tools.

[ThePacketMaster Linux] - (aka TPM Linux) has very specific requirements, mostly oriented towards security.

[FIRE] - is a portable bootable cdrom based distribution with the goal of providing an immediate environment to perform forensic analysis, incident response, data recovery, virus scanning and vulnerability assessment.

[Knoppix STD] - is meant to be used by both the novice looking to learn more about information security and the security professional looking for another swiss army knife for their tool kit.

[XoL - Diskless X office Linux] - is a product based on the technology of SoL - Server optimized Linux and SoL- desktop which are available worldwide and free for download since 2002.

[ADIOS] - has support for LIDS (Linux Intrusion Detection System) and SELinux (NSA Security Enhanced Linux). The ADIOS live CD uses a compressed loopback filesystem and has support for UML (User Mode Linux) virtual machines.

[XORP Live CD] - XORP is the eXtensible Open Router Platform. This Live CD is a quick way to get a relatively secure router on demand. XORP is free. It is covered by a BSD- style license.

[Linux LiveCD Router] - allows you to share your broadband connection and use WIFI. You can use DSL, ADSL, Cable Modem, T1, Fixed IPs, ISDN, Dial-Up, WIFI, build you own Access Point and more.

[Barebone] - This is a minimal core system, a template for customized live cd`s. It contains all necessary tools to create custom livecds from this template by simply installing additional software. It contains a minimal 300Mb system with a working minimal livecd configuration, access to local network and internet (Analog/ ISDN/ DSL) resources, yum, apt, rpm package tools, mc filemanager and more.

[Plan-B] - runs entirely in ram or from the cd, based on a basic, stripped installation of Red Hat Linux and the fundamental workings of the SuperRescue CD. A list of tools and utilities are also included for projects such as: Forensics/ Data Recovery, System/ Network Analysis and Security Scanning, Temporary Network Device/ Server, IDS/ NIDS System, Network Status Report Creation.

[Linux Live] - is a set of bash scripts which allows you to create your own LiveCD from every Linux distribution.

[List of Live CDs] - provide a comprehensive, easy- to- search list of many available Linux- based Live CDs.

\Linux Rescue CDs

[Repairlix] - is a networked Linux distribution/bootable system intended to fit in 12MB of media - so small that an image can be burned onto a business-card-sized shaped CDROM, suitable for your wallet. It has a suite of utilities for doing system recovery.

[SuperRescue] - is a single very large bootable system-on-a-disk. It's based on the observation that the vast majority of systems allow you to do so much more than the minimal system. Therefore it provides a much nicer rescue environment than your average rescue floppy.

[SystemRescueCd] - aims to provide an easy way to carry out admin tasks on your computer, such as creating and editing the partitions of the hard disk. It contains a lot of system utilities (parted, partimage, fstools, ...) and basic ones (editors, midnight commander, network tools). It aims to be very easy to use: just boot from the cdrom, and you can do everything.

[Crash Recovery Kit (CRK)] - Crash Recovery for Linux sounds a bit superfluous. Linux is regarded as one of todays most stable Operating Systems. In the case of some hardware failure like a broken disk it can however be handy. Of course your machine doesn't have to have linux installed to make use of the CRK kit. There are several uses and purposes for the CRK to be used.

[ivrescue] - is a small Linux rescue CD. It lies somewhere between minimalist boot floppies and large full-featured rescue CDs.

[Linuxcare Bootable Toolbox (LBT)] - is a fully usable miniature Linux distribution which can be placed on a credit-card sized CD media.

[ILUG BBC] - Irish Linux Users Group (ILUG) Bootable Business Card (BBC).

[Lubbock] - is a Linux distro based on Linuxcare Bootable Business Card. This is a emergency tool with many uses.

[BBLCD] - is the acronym for Bernhard's Bootable Linux CD. BBLCD is a toolkit for building your own bootable Linux CD from your favorite (and possibly customized) distribution.

[Timo's Rescue CD Set] - is an approach for an easy way to generate a rescue system on a bootable cd, which can easily be adapted to the own needs.

[MiniKnoppix] - has a lot of tools for system administration (backup/restore, filesystem check/creation, security, network testing, and more!).

[LNX-BBC] - is a miniature GNU Linux distribution, small enough to fit on a CD-ROM that has been cut, pressed, or molded to the size and shape of a business card.

[RIP (Rescue is Possible)] - This rescue distro comes in both a floppy version and a bootable CD version.

[Trinity Rescue Kit] - is designed to rescue/ repair/ prepare dead or damaged systems, be it Linux or Windows.

[LinuxDefender] - is a BitDefender re-mastered Knoppix. It was designed to provide users of both Windows and Linux computers with virus incident rescue tools.

[Feather Linux Console Edition] - is an edition of Feather Linux designed for rescuing corrupted or crashed systems, while still being smaller than 50Mb.

[Emergency CD] - is a (console) Live CD version for emergency and rescue your system.

[CDlinux] - aims to be a handy administration/ rescue tool for system administrators as well as general users.

[System-Down::Rescue] - is a live Cd-Rom designed for data recovery, which integrates tools for backup and file system restore. SD::Rescue is also oriented to network analisys and testing.

[SoL-diag (Server optimized Linux diagnosis)] - is a "diskless" Linux- distribution, which was designed for diagnosis and rescue of almost any operating system that runs on i686- based hardware.

[INSERT] - (Inside Security Rescue Toolkit) comes with a graphical user interface running the fluxbox window manager while still being sufficiently small to fit on a credit card-sized CD-ROM.

[BG-Rescue Linux] - This is a very small Linux distribution that fits on either two floppy disks or one eltorito-boot cd. You need at least a 386 machine with 16 mb ram to run BG-Rescue Linux.

Linux on a Floppy Disk

[Trinux] - is a portable distribution that boots from a single floppy disk, loads it packages from a FAT/Ext2 partition, floppy disks, or HTTP/FTP servers, and runs entirely in RAM.

[Fli4L] - is a single floppy Linux-based ISDN, DSL and Ethernet- Router. You can build it from an old 486 based pc with 16 megabyte memory.

[FloppyGate] - is a on a floppy linux distribution ready to be used as an ip masquerade firewall. It is build on a debian woody distribution.

[FREESCO] - (stands for FREE ciSCO) is a free replacement for commercial routers supporting up to 10 ethernet/ arcnet/ token_ring/ arlan network cards and up to 10 modems.

[Coyote Linux Floppy Firewall] - is designed for the sole purpose of sharing an Internet connection. The floppy can be created using either a Microsoft Windows wizard, or by using a set of Linux shell scripts. In addition to being designed to have very low hardware requirements, the floppy release of Coyote Linux is able to provide the performance and uptime that is expected from any Linux based system.

[BYLD] - stands for: "Build Your Linux Disk". This is a little package that helps you to build a Linux distribution on a single floppy disk to use as you want (net client, rescue disk...). This is not a complete distribution: it was made only to build a mini distribution on a floppy. However you can use it as is but I suggest to configure it and build your own floppy distribution.

[Tomsrtbt] - stands for: "Tom's floppy which has a root filesystem and is also bootable". Tomsrtbt is "The most GNU/Linux on one floppy disk" for rescue recovery panic & emergencies, tools to keep in your shirt pockets whenever you can't use a hard drive.

[a-Linux] - is a single-floppy mini-distribution based on asmutils. asmutils is a set of miscellaneous utilities written in assembly language, targeted on embedded systems and small distribution.

[HAL91] - distribution that fits on one floppy disk. You need at least a 386 machine (fpu not necessary) with 8 mb ram to run HAL91. The entire system runs in ram, so you can remove the floppy after booting.

[BasicLinux] - is a multi-purpose mini-Linux. It can boot from a floppy, or be installed to a permanent Linux native partition (where X and GCC may be added using standard packages from Slackware).

[RIP (Rescue is Possible)] - This rescue distro comes in both a floppy version and a bootable CD version.

[Minimalsitic / Small Distributions] - Bonzai, Zipslack, Crux, Tiny, muLinux, DeLi and more.

[Alcolix] - is a minimal linux rescue distribution. Features as a cozy shell and a multitude of partition rescue/ editing tools all based on up-to-date releases like 2.4.x kernel with USB support etc.

[blueflops] - is a two floppies Linux distribution with a web browser and an IRC client. One of the features is the configuration procedure. The scripts are all accessible by a "setup" script, and have a nice "dialog" front-end.

[Fd Linux] - is a very tiny floppy distribution of Linux, set to fit on one floppy disk (kernel and root fs are combined!). All binaries are based on Red Hat.

[Alfalinux] - is a standard portable Slackware on two floppy disks, that loads itself in RAM. You'll find only standard apps (ex. bash or lynx) and a "clear" system.

[bootE Linux] - supports only single user mode, and is intended as a repair/rescue/emergency distribution.

[floppyfw] - is a router with the advanced firewall- capabilities in Linux that fits on one single floppy disc.

[Debian-Ham] - is a floppy distribution specifically for contesting and logging. It is based on uClibc, busybox, and tlf. The current scheme uses a LILO boot floppy with a minix root floppy. Network support is included to connect to a DX cluster.

[PAUD - Parted And Utilities Disk] - is a bootdisk from scratch with everything that the parted bootdisk has, but more. It contains mc, parted, and other utilities such as filesystem utilities for ext2, ext3, and Reiserfs. It is great for partition maintenance and for rescue purposes.

[Herbix] - is a Linux server that fits on a floppy. A floppy drive and a network card is all you need to set up a multipurpose content server for http, ftp, smtp, dhcp and even irc if need be.

[ZoolLinux] - is a Mini-Distribution based on Standard Linux Kernel . Useful for floppy- based rescue systems, or to check hardware and network connections. It supports many different filesystems and has many utilities.

Linux for Experts & Specialized Distributions

Misc

[UltraLinux] - Linux for Sparc Processors. UltraLinux is the name given to the port of Linux the SPARC family of processors most commonly found in Sun workstations and clones. The port has been developed over the past few years and is currently very stable. It supports most workstations including the older 32bit SPARC processors and the newer 64bit UltraSPARC based workstations.

[CRUX] - is a lightweight, i686-optimized Linux distribution targeted at experienced Linux users. The primary focus of this distribution is "keep it simple", which is reflected in a simple tar.gz-based package system, BSD-style initscripts, and a relatively small collection of trimmed packages. The secondary focus is utilization of new Linux features and recent tools and libraries.

[KRUD] - "Kevin's Red Hat Uber Distribution" is a Distribution which tracks Red Hat and Fedora Linux. It is updated every month, and is available by CD and CD Subscription. KRUD is based on a complete Red Hat or Fedora Linux install with all of the errata and updates included, plus extra packages added in by Kevin of tummy.com.

[ASPLinux] - is a Red Hat based russian distribution. It includes all components for creation of a high perfomance Internet/Intranet server or powerful multimedia workstation. Installation program allows a novice to setup ASPLinux by several mouse clicks. At the same time, one can make a lot of precision settings required by professionals.

[Yoper] - is a high performance operating system which has been carefully optimised for PC's with either 686 or higher processor types. With Yoper it is possible to import packages from all the other major distros including rpm's, deb's, and tgz packages.

[Libranet] - is a comprehensive distribution that contains all the benefits of a Debian system with the added advantages of a super easy install, solid support, configuration setup, system management functions and a collection of applications guaranteed to keep your interest.

[LINUX for zSeries and LINUX for S/390] - Running Linux on an S/390 gives you the advantage of Linux applications accessing enterprise data where it's stored, providing improved responsiveness and reducing unnecessary duplication of data. S/390's legendary capacity makes it the perfect platform to help you simplify your operation.

[Frugalware] - is general purpose linux distribution, designed for intermediate users (who are not afraid of text mode). The developers try to make Frugalware as simple as possible while not forgetting to keep it comfortable.

[Ubuntu] - starts with the breadth of Debian and adds regular releases (every six months). Ubuntu ships with the latest Gnome release as well as a selection of server and desktop software that makes for a comfortable desktop experience off a single installation CD.

[Kubuntu] - The Kubuntu project aims to be to KDE what Ubuntu is to Gnome: a great integrated distro with all the great features of Ubuntu, but based on the KDE desktop. The team members behind Kubuntu are part of the Ubuntu community and use their infrastructure and support.

[Linux From Scratch (LFS)] - is a project that documents how to install a Linux system by downloading, building, and installing the packages yourself. [Deutsche Uebersetzung].

[UnitedLinux] - is a standards-based, worldwide Linux solution targeted at the business user formed by Caldera, Conectiva, SUSE LINUX, and Turbolinux.

[ALT Linux] - takes the best practices from Mandrake and Debian and releases 3 flavours: Junior: 1-disk distro for beginners, Master: 9-disk professional distro for servers and development stations, Castle: 1 or 2 (unreleased yet) high-security RSBAC distro for security experts.

[lfs-install] - is a free script for compiling a GNU/Linux system automated from source code. It compiles based on Gerard Beekmans' Linux From Scratch. It supports compiler optimization flags for various Intel IA-32 or compatible processors and allows to create a bootable build-CDROM.

[ALT Linux MSI Edition] - is tested and optimized for work with MSI motherboards. ALT Linux MSI Edition 1.0 distribution will suit both experienced Linux users and beginners.

[ALT Linux Manli Edition] - is a specialized OEM distribution furnished with products made by Manli Technology, Hong Kong's leading manufacturer of computer hardware and accessories.

[BlackRhino] - is a free Debian-based GNU/Linux software distribution for the Sony PlayStation 2. It contains over 1,200 software packages to aid in using and creating programs for the Sony PlayStation 2 Linux kit.

[Lunar-Linux] - is a source based Linux distribution with a unique package management system which builds each software package, or module, for the machine it is being installed on.

[Sorcerer] - is a GNU/Linux distribution. Sources are downloaded directly from software authors' homepages and mirrors. Then, they are compiled with the architecture and optimizations that the system administrator specifies.

[ROOT Linux] - is an advanced GNU/Linux operating system. It aims to be stable, flexible and fast. ROOT is a general-purpose system which includes software for both server and workstation use.

[Arch Linux] - is an i686-optimized linux distribution targeted at competent linux users. It does not provide any configuration helper utilities, so you will quickly become very proficient at configuring your system from the shell commandline.

[CentOS] - is an Enterprise class Linux Distribution. It is a rebuild of Redhat Enterprise Linux that conforms fully with Redhat's redistribution policy and aims to be 100% binary compatible.

Multimedia:

[DeMuDi] - "Debian Multimedia Distribution". The DeMuDi project targets one reason of this issue, the lack of a GNU / Linux distribution oriented toward music and multimedia.

[ReHMuDi] - the "Red Hat-based Multimedia Distribution" is oriented toward music and multimedia too. ReHMuDi & DeMuDi are developed by [Agnula].

[LinVDR] - hierbei handelt es sich um ein komplettes Linux- System mit einer Groesse von nicht einmal 50 MB rund um Klaus Schmidingers Video Disk Recorder (VDR) inklusive verschiedenen Plugins.

[c't-VDR-Distribution] - ist eine spezialisierte Distribution, die einen PC -- auch aelterer Bauart -- in einen perfekten digitalen Videorecorder mit allerhand Extras verwandelt. Details auf der Web-Seite der c't.

[MiniVDR] - Urspruenglich dazu entwickelt lediglich Fernsehsendungen aufzuzeichnen, existieren derzeit mannigfaltige Plugin's, um den PC als MP3, DVD, VCD, SVCD Player etc. zu nutzen.

[LinuxConsole] - is a live distro. Previous releases were only for games & multimedia, but other kind of applications have now been included. This distro is easy to use for people that have never used linux (all is done with a GUI).

[KnoppMyth] - is a Knoppix based distribution that makes it trivial to setup a set-top box. Everything is included that is needed to reach this goal.

[MiniMyth] - boots over a network and runs on diskless Via EPIA M systems. It runs the frontend portion of MythTV, a homebrew PVR project.

[Jollix] - is a Live CD designed for games and multimedia purposes; it's basis is the famous Gentoo Linux, that is capable of automatic hardware detection and configuration.

[dyne:bolic] - is a Live CD, that is shaped on the needs of media activists, artists and creatives, being a practical tool for multimedia production.

[MoviX] - The MoviX project is a series of three different tiny Linux CD distributions containing all the software to boot from a CD (Live CD) and play multimedia files through the MPlayer, the best multimedia player in the Unix world.

[WOMP!] - is a micro linux distribution (Live CD) focussed on multimedia, it takes only 13 to 18 MB on a bootable CD, and allow playing multimedia files (video/audio/image) without installing any software on the computer's hard drive.

[GeeXboX] - is a Live CD with the main purpose to play DivX movies with the MPlayer. Nearly every kind of media files can be played from GeeXboX.

Security

[Owl (Openwall GNU/*/Linux)] - is a security-enhanced operating system with Linux and GNU software as its core, compatible with other major distributions of GNU/*/Linux. It is intended as a server platform. And, of course, it's free.

[EnGarde Secure Linux] - is a secure distribution of Linux engineered from the ground-up to provide organizations with the level of security required to create a corporate Web presence or even conduct e-business on the Web.

[Adamantix] - (former Trusted Debian) aims to create a highly secure but usable Linux platform. To accomplish this, the project will use currently available security solutions for Linux and knit these together to a highly secure Linux platform.

[IPCop] - is a Linux firewall distribution geared towards home and SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) users. IPCop offers the critical functionality of an expensive network appliance using stock, or even obsolete, hardware and OpenSource Software.

[Castle] - is a ALT Linux Team Server distribution based upon RSBAC (is a flexible, powerful and fast open source access control framework for current Linux kernels). As evident from its name, the main idea of our server distribution is protection.

[Master] - realizes today's most advanced technologies of data protection, including: TCB user authorization system; chrooted environments for most servers; unified interface for system objects control; internetwork screen configuration tools (guarddog, rcf).

[Trustix Secure Linux] - is a Linux distribution for servers with focus on security and stability. One of the main features of Trustix is its small size which combined with easy updating by the automated secure software updater swup, makes it a smooth and inviting system to administer.

[tinysofa] - is a server targeted, enterprise grade distribution based on Trustix Secure Linux. The meticulously crafted software packages that compose tinysofa, coupled with a focus on security, stability and manageability make it the only completely free Linux solution suitable for enterprise use.

[Astaro Security Linux] - is an integrated network security solution with best-of-industry features in one easy-to-manage package. It is built on an integrated management platform that makes it incredibly easy to install and administer.

[SENTINIX] - is a GNU/Linux distribution designed for monitoring, intrusion detection, vulnerability assessment, statistics/graphing and anti-spam. It's completely free; free to use, free to modify and free to distribute.

[LEAF] - (Linux Embedded Appliance Firewall) is an easy to use embedded Linux network appliance for use in small office, home office, and home automation environments. Although it can be used in other ways, it's primarily used as a gateway/ router/ firewall for Internet leaf sites.

[Linux Netwosix] - is a light, powerful and optimized Linux distribution for servers and Network Security related jobs. It can be also used for special operations as penetration test with its big collection of softwares and sources security oriented.

[Devil-Linux] - is created from IT Administators for IT Administrators. Devil-Linux is a distribution which boots and runs completely from CDROM. The configuration can be saved to a floppy diskette or a USB pen drive.

[SmoothWall] - is an open source firewall distribution, that converts an Intel or compatible PC into a dedicated firewall and gateway. Designed for ease of use, SmoothWall is configured via a web-based GUI, and requires absolutely no knowledge of Linux to install or use.

[Sentry Firewall CD] - is a CDROM-Based Firewall/ Server/ IDS (Intrusion Detection System). You boot from this CD, and with a few preconfigured files on a floppy (on which you've flipped the write-protect switch to read-only) you have a running firewall.

[Gibraltar] - is a Debian GNU/Linux-based firewall package which is bootable directly from CD-ROM, so hard disk installation is not necessary. The configuration data is stored on hard disk, floppy disk or an USB storage device.

[Honeywall] - The Honeywall CDROM combines all the tools and requirements of a GenII honeynet gateway on a (hopefully) easy to use, secure, bootable CDROM. It is an appliance, based on a minimized and secured Linux OS.

[Local Area Security] - (aka L.A.S. Linux) is a Live CD, that contains over 200 information security and administration related tools.

[ThePacketMaster Linux] - (aka TPM Linux) is a Live CD that has very specific requirements, mostly oriented towards security.

[Knoppix STD] - is a Live CD meant to be used by both the novice looking to learn more about information security and the security professional looking for another swiss army knife for their tool kit.

[INSERT] - (Inside Security Rescue Toolkit) comes with a graphical user interface running the fluxbox window manager while still being sufficiently small to fit on a credit card-sized CD-ROM.

[Helix] - is a bootable CD based on Knoppix, with an emphasis on Incident Response & Forensics. It includes customized linux kernels, Fluxbox, Excellent hardware detection and many applications.

[Auditor security collection] - is a Live- System based on KNOPPIX, that offer you a complete toolset to analyse your safety, byte for byte.

Router

[XORP Live CD] - XORP is the eXtensible Open Router Platform. This Live CD is a quick way to get a relatively secure router on demand. XORP is free. It is covered by a BSD- style license.

[Linux LiveCD Router] - is a Live CD that allows you to share your broadband connection and use WIFI. You can use DSL, ADSL, Cable Modem, T1, Fixed IPs, ISDN, Dial-Up, WIFI, build you own Access Point and more.

[Fli4L] - is a single floppy Linux-based ISDN, DSL and Ethernet- Router. You can build it from an old 486 based pc with 16 megabyte memory.

[FREESCO] - (stands for FREE ciSCO) is a free replacement for commercial routers supporting up to 10 ethernet/ arcnet/ token_ring/ arlan network cards and up to 10 modems.

[Coyote Linux Floppy Firewall] - is designed for the sole purpose of sharing an Internet connection.

[floppyfw] - is a router with the advanced firewall- capabilities in Linux that fits on one single floppy disc.

Minimalist / Small Distributions

[Bonzai Linux] - (formerly "miniwoody") has been build to offer a Debian based Desktop-OS that fits on a 180MB CD-R(W). The Distribution includes the current stable version of KDE and has been modified for easier installation.

[ROCK Linux] - is a small distribution, but it's not a "mini distribution". It comes with over 200 packages including X11 and the GNOME Desktop - but excluding menu driven configuration tools.

[VectorLinux] - is a Slackware based operating system that occupies less than 450 megs of hard drive space when fully installed and has a full set of preconfigured programs to handle all of your basic computing needs.

[Zipslack] - is a kind of Slackware that can be installed onto any FAT (or FAT32) filesystem with about 100 MB of free space. It can also be installed to and booted from a Zip disk.

[ELKS] - is the Embeddable Linux Kernel Subset, a project to build a small kernel subset of Linux (which will provide more or less UNIX V7 functionality within the kernel) that can run on machines with limited processor and memory resources. The initial proposed targets are the Intel 8086 and eventually the 286's 16-bit protected mode.

[Core] - is a minimal distribution designed to be the basis for a complete system constructed by the end user. A fresh installation of Core will boot into a console and provide the user with the tools needed to download, compile and install other applications. Core contains nothing beyond what is required to perform these tasks.

[Learnux Mini-Debian] - is especially designed for low end hardware, the minimum system spec being a 486DX/33, 16MB RAM, 300+MB HD and 800x600 display.

[DeLi Linux] - stands for "Desktop Light" Linux. It is a Linux Distribution for old computers, from 486 to Pentium MMX 166 or so. It's focussed on desktop usage.

[Tiny Linux] - is a small Linux distribution designed especially for old recycled computers. Tiny Linux is a fully functional system, supporting as much old hardware and software as possible.

[muLinux] - is a minimalistic Linux distribution, suitable for old computers. X11, GCC, VNC, SSH, Samba, Netscape etc. are supported on additional addon floppies. It can be installed from DOS/Win9x or Linux, without repartitioning.

[BasicLinux] - is a multi-purpose mini-Linux. It can boot from a floppy, or be installed to a permanent Linux native partition (where X and GCC may be added using standard packages from Slackware).

[Spinix] - In it's simplest form, Spinix takes up only around 130Megs and with full development and X only around 500Megs. This makes Spinix ideal for firewall installations and old systems with limited resources.

[Small Linux] - is a partial distribution of the Linux kernel and support files that can boot on older x86 systems with less than 5 meg of ram memory.

[Puppy] - is extraordinarily small, yet quite fully featured. Puppy boots into a 48 - 54M ramdisk, and that's it, the whole caboodle runs in RAM.

[eisfair] - is an easy to install Internet- Server, which uses linux as underlying operating system. The resources needed is kept as small as possible, in order to be able to start and operate even from a 16MB Compact- Flashcard.

[ttylinux] - aims to fit into 4 megabytes of space and run even on 386 class computers, yet does provide a rather complete command line environment and is prepared for Internet dial-in.

[RUNT] - is Slackware Linux designed to run off of a 128 MB or more USB pen drive. It consists of a boot floppy image and a zip file, similar to zipslack. It is intended to be a fairly complete Linux installation for use as a testing tool capable of booting on any x86 computer with a USB port and a bootable floppy drive.

[Compact Flash Linux Project] - is designed to run on a compact flash card in read-only mode. It currently needs around 14 MB. It includes OpenSSH, quagga, iptables, hostap, madwifi, wireless-tools, pppoe, tcpdump, bridge-utils, and more.

[Flash Linux] - is a compact distribution designed exclusively to run off 256Mb USB keys or other bootable Flash based media. Flash Linux is based on Gentoo Linux and new versions / bugfixes should track the stable Gentoo tree.

[b00t] - is a minimalistic linux system with Zero Install capabilities. It's build on top of busybox and uclibc and, of course, lazyfs a 0install. It contains a lot of 10/100Mbit NIC drivers. b00t is a part of proof of concept, nothing what can be usefull to end user.

[Linux4Geeks] - is a slim and fast source- based distribution. It is intended to be a base system from which you can create every type of machine. It fits for workstations, servers or even firewalls. Linux4Geeks is based on Linux from Scratch. It's nothing for people who do not know what they are doing.

[Jailbait] - is "Another Interesting Linux But Also Intimidating Too": A fully-functional Linux distribution that fits into 16 MB.

[Floppy Linux] - Trinux, BYLD, Tomsrtbt, LRP, RIP, Keeper, HAL91, and more.

[Damn Small Linux] - is a business card size (50MB) Live CD Linux distribution. The applications on it are the best compromises between function and size.

[MiniCD] - is a LiveCD designed to run off 185MB CDs. It features a full desktop (KDE) and is based on Mandrake Linux.

[Slax] - is a Slackware based small Live CD, so you can burn it to a 185 MB CD-R(W) (8 cm CD medium).

[Linux Live] - is a set of bash scripts which allows you to create your own LiveCD from every Linux distribution.

Distributions for Thin Clients

[PXES] - is the micro Linux distribution allowing you to build thin clients or diskless workstations. Hardware not suitable for other uses like current desktop OS can be recycled and converted into a thin client..

[DIET-PC] - (DIskless Embedded Technology Personal Computer) is a Do-It-Yourself open source thin client software kitset, allowing you to construct generic- or special- purpose thin clients using commodity x86 PC hardware.

[Thinstation] - enables you to convert standard PCs into full- featured diskless thin clients supporting all major connectivity protocols like Citrix ICA, MS Windows terminal services (RDP), X, Telnet, SSH...

[Netstation] - enables you to convert standard PCs into full- featured diskless thin clients supporting all major connectivity protocols. It can be booted from the network using Etherboot/PXE or from floppy/CD/hd/flash-disk etc.

[2X ThinClientServer] - provides a complete solution for the central deployment, configuration and management of thin clients and provides load balancing and redundancy of terminal servers.

Schoolserver- / Terminalserver- Distributions

[K12LTSP] - is based on RedHat Linux and the LTSP terminal server packages. It's easy to install and configure. Once installed K12LTSP lets you boot diskless workstations from an applications server.

[Skolelinux] - is a Custom Debian GNU/Linux distribution for schools. It is simple to install and maintain. The installation will have four options (profiles): Main-Server, Workstation, Thin- Client-Server, Standalone.

[kmLinuxTSE] - ist eine Terminalserver Distribution fuer Schulen, die auf auf kmLinux (eine fuer den Schuleinsatz konzipierte Distribution) basiert. Die Terminalserver- Pakete kommen vom Linux Terminal Server Project (ltsp).

[2X ThinclientServer for Linux] - provides users with a secure Linux desktop with tunneled / published Citrix or Windows apps.

Linux for Power PC

[LinuxPPC] - Linux/PPC is the native port of Linux to the PowerPC processor. Linux/PPC runs natively on PCI-based Apple Power Macintosh, many IBM and Motorola PReP and CHRP workstations, Amiga Power-UP systems and several embedded platforms that utilize the Motorola and IBM embedded PowerPC processors. The kernel supports multiple processors (SMP), which works on some Power Macintosh models and certain IBM RS/6000 computers.

[Yellow Dog Linux] - is a complete, Red Hat and RPM based operating system for PowerPC computers. YDL may co-exist with Mac OS in a dual-boot environment or replace the Mac OS on "New World ROM" (Blue & White G3s and newer) machines. Simple to install, YDL offers a graphical installer, KDE (an elegant, mature GUI), and over 900 applications to fulfill server, code developer, and home/office needs.

[Debian for PowerPC] - was first officially released with Debian GNU/Linux 2.2 ("potato"). Support for PowerPC is maintained in the release 3.0 ("woody").

[Gentoo Linux for the PowerPC] - Gentoo is a versatile and fast, completely free distribution for x86, PowerPC, Sparc and Sparc64 that's geared towards Linux power users.

[MkLinux] - is an Open Source operating system which consists of an implementation of the Linux operating system hosted on the Mach microkernel.

[ROCK Linux on PowerPC] - is considered to be ready for production use on Apple Macintosh hardware and IBM RS/6000.

[Mandrake Linux for PowerPC] - provides all Mandrake/x86 features plus specifical features.

[Knoppix-PPC] - Fabian Franz' prototype of Knoppix (Live- CD) for apple / mac.

[Penguinppc.org Distributions] - Linux distributions known to work on PowerPC hardware of some sort.

Embedded Linux

[BlueCat Linux] - is a version of Linux specially tailored for use in embedded systems. It is based on the Red Hat.

[MontaVista Linux] - is a distribution of Linux designed and optimized for embedded systems.

[ElinOS] - Embedded Linux Distribution for industrial applications.

[Pebble Linux] - is a minimal Debian stripped distro aimed for use in wireless embedded devices.

[Innominate Secure Linux] - The focus of Innominate's development work has been on security and communication functions.

[SnapGear] - is unique in providing commercial quality tool chains and processor support in a freely downloadable open source format.

[Industrial Linux] - ist eine von der IT Solution Provider der Siemens AG eigens auf die Anforderungen der Industrie zugeschnittene Linux Distribution.

[AMSEL] - (Advanced Modular Secure Embedded Linux) wird mit speziell gehaertetem Kernel und Userland sowie in einem secure by default Zustand ausgeliefert.

[RTLinuxPro] - FSMLabs RTLinuxPro building block is a tested and validated, hard real-time, POSIX operating system that runs Embedded Linux as an application platform. FSMLabs Embedded Linux is a complete development system with tested kernel and tool-chain, a fully embeddable/ network- bootable file- system, and utilities for building efficient flash file systems.

[2-Disk Xwindow embedded Linux] - is a very efficient distribution, implementing a net centric operating environment and user friendly GUI. It is intended to be a demonstration of Mungkie assiciates embedded appliance development environment, showing the sort of environment that can be created for small appliance GUI systems using less than 4Mb flash and 4Mb RAM.

[Embedded Gentoo] - This project manages embedded system support in Gentoo.

Linux Isos

[LinuxISO.org] - Linux Iso Images: Debian, LinuxPPC, SuSE, Slackware, Conectiva, TurboLinux, Fedora, RedHat, Corel, Trustix, FreeBSD, NetBSD, YellowDog, Stampede, Mandrake, Gentoo , Immunix, Peanut, Icepack, Lycoris, ....

[ISO Images] - "Instead of buying a Linux CD, if you have a cd writer you can download the ISO image of your favorite distribution and create your own cdrom. Here are the locations of some of the ISOs".

[LinuxImages] - Many Linux ISO Images, FreeBSD, NetBSD, OpenBSD ISOs and more. "This machine is a mirror of many packages on the Internet. It is a joint effort of SURFnet and NLUUG (Netherlands Unix Users Group)".

[TLMP] - mirrors all the major linux distributions, such as Fedora, Slackware, Debian, Mandrake, Knoppix, and many more, using the BitTorrent protocol to distribute bandwidth effectively among users.

[Debian CD images] - here you can download Debian CD images via HTTP/FTP.

[Vendors of Debian CDs] - here you'll find a vendor in your own country.

[iso4Linux.com] - here you can buy the most important download-versions of different Linux-distributions on CD.

[linux-online-versand.de] - verkauft weltweit Distributionen und Linux Software auf direkt bedruckten CDR / DVD.

[Linux-ISO.de] - bietet die offiziellen GPL ISO Images verschiedener Distributionen zu guenstigen Konditionen im Versand an.

[LinISO] - uebernimmt das Herunterladen der ISO-Images freier Distributionen und erstellt direkt aus diesen Dateien die CD-Rs, die hier dann bestellt werden koennen.

[Linuxland] - "Hier beim groessten unabhaengigen Vertrieb rund um Linux-Produkte bekommen Sie schnell und versandkostenfrei Linux-Software, Buecher und Fanartikel".