How to choose the right Linux Distro

The numerous options of Linux Distro make it tough for the users to choose an ideal option to suit their purpose. It is great confusion among today’s users especially for the varying criteria that each comes with. For this reason, we have tried to jot down some of the most important factors that you need to consider for making the ideal choice. Read on to know more about the factors.

 

Factors affecting the choice of right Linux Distro

  1. Purpose of the distribution

The Linux distributions are used mainly for three purposes as stated below:

  • Usage for desktop purposes
  • Usage for desktop and server purposes
  • Usage for server purposes.

All the distributions are known to have varied setting adjustability, software age, and diversity in terms of GUI applications. API stability, software life, and security protocols are also included in the list.

 

  1. Ease of use

The ease of use is one of the points that are common to choosing anything and choosing a Linux distro is not an exception. Though most of them are known to have great support for hardware compatibility as well as the tools to configure the needs easily, it is a good option to consider especially for first-time users.

 

  1. The management system of the package

The RPM versus DEB debate is a lot common and users must choose their sides. It is totally a relative factor as both the options have their own sets of merits and demerits and it is necessary for the users to choose the side that is more aligned with their goals, styles, and requirements. But it is necessary to note that the user experience is going to be more or less the same irrespective of the side they choose.

 

  1. Update life of the software

It is one of those features that many users tend to forget. Product life and distribution upgrades vary for all the options. While some offer pretty fast-paced upgrades to the new version, some take a lot of time for the same. But new upgrades often limit the life of the product to a few months before it becomes obsolete. Having the greatest and the latest features can only aid you to work better and smarter.

 

  1. Stability of features

It is one of the most important features you need to consider while choosing a Linux distro. Some distributions are known to support backporting. What it means is that new features, updates and bug fixes that are brought in for a newer version will also be applied to an older one of the same distribution. But it is not common to all as some distributions lack a mid-release software upgrade policy.

 

  1. Ethics

While of the distributions come with Open Source Software, others are known to come with non-open source binary options. We all have certain beliefs and if you are orthodox on your ethical beliefs, you must find a distribution aligned with the same. It is necessary to avoid any unpleasant experience due to choosing a one that does not match your ideologies.

 

  1. Package selection

The count of software programs can vary for varied distributions. The repositories of Redhat are much smaller in comparison to that of Debian. It is necessary for you to confirm that the distribution you choose will provide you will the software you will need. You will also need to check that the programs are reliable and trustworthy in case of 3rd party repositories. The best way to do so is to conduct in-depth research on all the distributions.

 

  1. Popularity

Consider the option that the ones in your circle are using. This is necessary for peer support. If you choose a distro that none others are using in your group, you may have difficulty to find answers to the technical question. Sticking to the same distribution can ease out a lot of issues as you will find local support easily. You can also search up for a local Linux community for the purpose.

 

  1. Your suitable style

We all have separate working styles and the same is applicable to the wide range of Linux distributions in the market. While all of the distributions are good, it might not be suitable for your style. You can check out live CDs to check out if you will like the experience. Also, you can even opt to choose a separate partition for data storage if you may consider the option of changing the distribution.

 

  1. Language support

It is not a necessary option for the English speakers but if you are in search of a distribution that supports other languages, you will need to confirm that you will be getting the required support. It is also necessary to confirm that there are multiple speakers for the language you want the distribution for so that you can consult with them for the technical issues you may face.

 

No matter what Linux Distro you may choose, you can obviously change it if you are not comfortable with it. But gathering firm knowledge before making the choice can only save your valuable time and effort.