With numerous benefits over other operating systems in terms of security, flexibility, and scalability, Linux is one of the well-known programmer-friendly and open-source operating systems. A Linux distribution, sometimes known as a distro, is an operating system built using programs that use the Linux kernel. Each of these distros offers Linux for download to its users.
However, choosing the best Linux distro for developers can be a time-consuming task with tonnes of available options. In this article, we will discuss some of the most stable Linux distros for your convenience.
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Linux Kodachi
Based on Xubuntu 18.04, Linux Kodachi is a lightweight, secure and stable Linux distro for personal use. Linux Kodachi is known for its anti-forensic, anonymity and security to filter the VPN network traffic and obscure the user location. Based on the reliable Linux system Debian, Kodachi incorporates Xfce-specific features for increased security, singularity, and stability.
Additionally, Kodachi provides a system for supporting the DNScrypt protocol and utility, which encrypts a request to the OpenDNS server using elliptical cryptography. Additionally, Kodachi offers a browser-based system that runs on the Tor browser, allowing you to remove any dubious Tor modules, making it one of the best Linux distros for beginners.
Benefits
- Highly stable
- Offers a compelling system
- Offers quick network access
- Includes various pre-installed programs
Qubes OS
Qubes OS is a secure Linux distribution that is highly regarded by users who want a high level of privacy. Qubes is a secure OS that allows other programs to operate on a computer/laptop. This Linux distribution protects user files from malware and criminal activities without compromising the data. With the help of compartmentalisation, Qubes OS offers top-notch security. You can divide up your tasks into separate, securely isolated compartments.
Benefits
- Beneficial for advanced developers
- Through the Whonix Tor gateway, all the internet traffic is forced through a higher level of separation
Whonix
Based on Debian GNU, Whonix is a stable Linux distro offering top-notch security and outstanding privacy. Unlike other operating systems, Whonix doesn’t have a live system, but runs on a virtual machine, particularly when it is isolated from the primary OS to prevent DNS leaks.
Whonix is divided into two separate components. The Whonix gateway, which serves as the Tor gateway, is the initial component. The Whonix workstation is the second component. It is a segregated network that strives to redirect all connections through the Tor gateway. This Linux distribution will function properly if your system requires a private IP address.
Benefits
- Designed to make it easy for many people to use this distro by utilising VirtualBox technology
- Because it does not require special knowledge, it is simple to set up and use
- Requires a high-end system for proper implementation and usage
Tails
One of the stable Linux distros for personal use, The Amnesic Incognito Live System or Tails is a Debian-based operating system with a security-based focus. It is one of the most secure Linux distributions available for personal use since it was developed to safeguard your identity by keeping your activities anonymous. Tails blocks all traceable connections and forces all incoming and outgoing traffic over the Tor network.
Benefits
- Easy to use Linux distro
- Offers anonymous browsing right away
- Comes with the Tor browser
- Provides password-protected safe spaces
Ubuntu
Ubuntu is one of the best Linux distros for developers due to its extreme flexibility, scalability and secured data centres. The Ubuntu Server operating system runs on all major architectures, including ARM, x86, Power, s390x, and RISC-V. CLIs are used to control the program. However, the free version has limited security options.
Benefits
- Enables scale-out computing and offers tools for managing entire clusters
- It includes pre-installed applications including 10gen MongoDB, Inktank Ceph, and Apache Hadoop
- Open source in nature, thus you can add up to 100 nodes for free
BlackArch Linux
Based on Arch Linux, BlackArch is a lightweight Linux distribution made for computer specialists, penetration testers, and security analysts. This Linux distribution offers a variety of features along with more than 2,000 cybersecurity tools that users can install in accordance with their needs. Since BlackArch is a new project and a lightweight Linux distribution that can run on any hardware, many developers now like using this distribution.
Analyses demonstrate that this Linux distribution can compete with many trustworthy OSs because of the diversity of features and professional tools it provides. Desktop environments that are available to users include Fluxbox, Awesome, Spectrum, and Blackbox. In addition to being easily run from a pen drive, BlackArch is available as a DVD image.
Benefits
- BlackArch Linux offers a massive repository to its users
- Being one of the best Linux distros for developers, it is an efficient tool for professionals
- In comparison to ArchStrike, BlackArch offers better features
Parrot Security OS
Based on a Debian platform, Parrot Security OS, was introduced in 2013 and was made for penetration testing, ethical hacking, and working invisibly. This Linux distribution was created primarily to test permitted simulated computer system attacks, which is useful for identifying system weaknesses. Parrot Security OS is a free and open-source GNU distribution designed for forensic investigators, security researchers, developers, and penetration testers.
In addition to providing security-related protection during internet use, gaming, or browsing, Parrot Security OS comes with a portable lab. The default desktop environment of this Linux distro is Parrot Terminal, MATE, Tor Browser, and OnionShare since it is distributed as a rolling release (the installation of updates and applications is frequent).
Benefits
- Provides a wide range of tools
- Easy-to-use widgets
- GPU is not required to run correctly
- Easy to navigate with clean UI
Linux Mint
With the GNU toolchain and a foundation in the Ubuntu and Debian projects, Linux Mint is developed on top of the Linux kernel. Its goal is to serve as a contemporary and effective operating system that allows every computer user to carry out his/her daily responsibilities.
To accommodate a range of tastes, Linux Mint is available in three varieties. Each has a distinctive desktop setting –
- Cinnamon – It is the most cutting-edge environment, complete with a full-featured desktop.
- MATE – It works with a wide range of hardware requirements.
- Xfce – It is the lightest and most stable desktop environment.
Benefits
- With a convenient user interface and interactive design, it makes it one of the best Linux distros for beginners
- This open-source distro can run on both x86 and x64 systems
- Designed to work with other OSs
- Allows users to install it either on a dual boot or a multi-boot environment
Debian
Best for beginners, Debian is one of the most popular and most stable Linux distros working as the base for other software programs. Providing a completely free operating system, Debian offers extensive hardware support for security and upgrades.
Benefits
- Free and open-source software
- Easy for beginners
- Extensive security support
- Smooth upgrades
- Versatile nature
Discreete
Based on Debian and formerly known as Ubuntu Privacy Remix, Discreete was created to offer due protection against trojan-based surveillance by isolating the working from a given location with secured data. Discreete can be used via DVD, CD or USB drive due to its limitation to be installed on a hard drive. In terms of security, Discreete is one of the most stable Linux distros developed for day-to-day computer activities. All the networks, however, are intentionally shut down to keep the data and encryption keys isolated from non-trusted networks.
Benefits
- Can be used via CD, DVD or USB drive
- One of the safest Linux distros providing the utmost security
- Best for daily tasks
Summing Up
Every Linux distribution has its own unique features and there is a lot of Linux distributions offering to meet different needs. That’s why, it’s important to pick the right Linux distribution. You may have a hard time customising the distro if you choose the wrong one. However, any of these Linux distros would be a good choice for keeping your information safe from malicious threats because security, privacy, and anonymity are important when performing computer-related tasks. An online course that extensively covers Linux can help you decide upon the right Linux distribution and use it effectively.
Also Read: Best Linux System Monitoring Tools