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Advanced Linux Distributions

In this section, we explore the distributions that require more than a "new Linux user's" knowledge of Linux. These distros usually require lots of in-depth knowledge of building packages from scratch, downloading and compiling, installing dependent packages and other tasks.

While these distiributions are more complex to administer, many avid Linux fans take on the challenge of downloading and installing these distros for the sheer fun of learning the inner workings of Linux

Gentoo... building Linux

Gentoo Linux is the "techie's" distro. To install and manage this distribution requires time and effort to learn. Many old-timer Linux types recommend that new or semi-new Linux enthusiasts go through the Gentoo installation experience in order to gain knowledge of the real workings of Linux.

The Gentoo community is well known for its support. Gentoo also has an extensive and thorough handbook that walks new users through the installation process.

Read a first hand account of an initial Gentoo installation HERE.

** UPDATE** Gentoo has released a new version (2006.0) that has a Live CD version. Included in this Live CD is a Gentoo Installer that allows for a GUI based installation, much like easier RPM based distros.

Look at the release notes and download it HERE!

Linux From Scratch

Another "do-it-yourself" Linux distribution is Linux from Scratch (LFS).

Linux From Scratch (LFS) is a project that provides you with step-by-step instructions for building your own customized Linux system entirely from source. You can read about this distribution and download the .ISO images from HERE.

Read a good review of LFS HERE !

Using the Linux Command Line

Great tutorials on using the command line in Linux can be found HERE!

A great list of BASH (Borne Again Shell) commands can be found HERE (600 + commands)

Need to Compile the Kernel or Software?

Look at our links to great tutorials HERE!

Advanced (for the technically literate)

Arch Linux: An i686-optimized Linux distribution targeted at competent Linux users. Uses pacman utility to update packages.
CRUX: 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
Foresight Linux: A distribution built around the quite new packaging system Conary.
Gentoo: A distribution intended for enthusiasts and professionals with its own package management system called Portage. Gentoo focuses on the compilation of source code rather than the distribution of binary packages, which is expected to make applications to run faster.
GoboLinux: An alternative Linux distribution which redefines the entire file system hierarchy by installing everything belonging to one application in one subfolder under /Programs, and using symlinks from /System and its subfolders to point to the proper files.
Heretix: The successor of RubyX, management of this distribution is done via the Ruby programming language. Packagement is handled via Ruby as well, with packages being installed in one folder under /pkg. (Currently, June 2005, in very very early beta stage)
ImpiLinux: A South African distribution that focuses on the needs of African users. See homepage (inactive as of 2005-10-15)
Jedi GNU/Linux: A source-based GNU/Linux Metadistribution which is built around the force-get package manager. It is currently in a beta-state (as of June 2005) but is in constant development.
Linux From Scratch: A document specifying the process of compiling an entire Linux system from scratch, adjusted by whoever creates "his/her own personal Linux system". (not a distribution).
Lunar Linux: A source code-based distribution descended from Sorcerer GNU/Linux.
MkLinux: A distribution for PowerPC systems that runs the Linux kernel as a server on top of the Mach microkernel.
Onebase Linux: A distribution intended for a broad range of users.
Sorcerer GNU/Linux: A source code-based distribution.
Source Mage GNU/Linux: A source code-based distribution, descended from Sorcerer GNU/Linux.
Underground Desktop: a desktop distribution based on Arch Linux, i686 optimized and with KDE desktop. See homepage
Ututo: A Gentoo based distribution, made in Argentina.
VidaLinux: A Gentoo based distribution. Is essentially Gentoo (it uses Portage and ebuilds), but uses Anaconda to install.

Slackware Based Distros

DARKSTAR: a very configurable Linux based on Slack made in Romania. See track record.
Frugalware: general purpose Linux distribution, designed for intermediate users. See track record.
Kate OS: A Slackware based lightweight, Polish language distribution. See track record.
Plamo Linux: A Slackware based Japanese distribution.
Slackware: The oldest Linux distribution still maintained. Slackware packages are tar/gziped files with the extension .tgz.
SLAX: A Slackware based small live CD which can also be installed on keydrive. No hard drive install. See track record.
Ultima Linux: Customized distro by Martin Ultima.
Vector Linux
Zenwalk Linux (formerly MiniSlack): A Slackware based optimized distribution featuring XFCE as the default desktop, Gnome libraries, the new reiserfs filesystem, and new kernel. See track record.
Sauver: Sauver is a "Live CD", so no installation is required. The whole Operating System runs right off any removable media (USB or CD) , putting whatever system files it needs into RAM only. You simply start up your PC with the Sauver CD. It recognizes most of your devices, without having to take the trouble to install the drivers. Once you're done with Sauver, simply restart your PC. The CD will eject automatically and all will be exactly as it was before. See Sauver Homepage