Linux is a versatile and powerful operating system that can run on various devices, from servers and desktops to laptops and smartphones. Linux is also free and open source, which means that anyone can use, modify, and distribute it without paying any fees or royalties. This makes Linux an attractive choice for businesses that want to reduce their IT costs and have more control over their software.
However, not all Linux distributions are created equal. Some are designed for specific purposes, such as gaming, privacy, or education, while others are more general-purpose and suitable for a wide range of users and tasks. In this article, we will look at some of the best Linux distros for business use, based on their stability, security, support, compatibility, and features.
Best Linux distro for small business: Debian
Debian is one of the oldest and most popular Linux distros, dating back to 1993. Debian is known for its stability and reliability, as it only includes software that has been thoroughly tested and verified. Debian also has a vast software repository, with over 59,000 packages available for installation. Debian is supported by a large and active community of developers and users, who provide bug fixes, security updates, and documentation.
Debian is a good choice for small businesses that need a stable and secure platform to run their servers and applications. Debian can run on various architectures, such as x86, ARM, and PowerPC, and supports many hardware devices and drivers. Debian also offers several flavors, or variants, that cater to different needs and preferences. For instance, Debian Stable is the most stable and well-tested version, while Debian Testing and Debian Unstable are more cutting-edge and experimental. Debian also has several desktop environments to choose from, such as GNOME, KDE, XFCE, and LXDE.
Best Linux distro for enterprise: Red Hat Enterprise Linux
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a commercial Linux distro that is developed and maintained by Red Hat, a leading provider of open source solutions for enterprises. RHEL is based on Fedora, a community-driven Linux distro that serves as a testing ground for new technologies and features. RHEL is designed to meet the high standards and demands of enterprise customers, who require a stable, secure, and scalable platform to run their mission-critical workloads.
RHEL is a good choice for enterprises that need a robust and reliable platform to power their servers, cloud, containers, and virtualization. RHEL is certified by many hardware and software vendors, and supports a wide range of applications and services, such as databases, web servers, email servers, and file servers. RHEL also offers comprehensive support and services, such as security updates, bug fixes, technical assistance, and training. RHEL is not free, however, and requires a subscription fee to access its full benefits and features.
Best Linux distro for desktop: Ubuntu
Ubuntu is one of the most popular and user-friendly Linux distros, especially for desktop users. Ubuntu is based on Debian, but has its own software repository and release cycle. Ubuntu is known for its ease of use, as it comes with a sleek and intuitive desktop environment, called GNOME, and a set of pre-installed applications, such as Firefox, LibreOffice, and Thunderbird. Ubuntu also has a software center, where users can easily find and install thousands of additional applications and games.
Ubuntu is a good choice for desktop users who want a simple and elegant Linux distro that works out of the box. Ubuntu can run on most modern computers, and supports many hardware devices and drivers. Ubuntu also has a large and active community of developers and users, who provide updates, support, and feedback. Ubuntu also has several flavors, or variants, that use different desktop environments, such as Kubuntu (KDE), Xubuntu (XFCE), and Lubuntu (LXDE).
Best Linux distro for network: ClearOS
ClearOS is a Linux distro that is designed to serve as a network and gateway server. ClearOS is based on CentOS, a community-driven Linux distro that is derived from RHEL. ClearOS is aimed at small and medium businesses, as well as home and hobby users, who need a simple and affordable solution to manage their network and internet access. ClearOS can perform various functions, such as firewall, web proxy, web filter, antivirus, intrusion detection, and more.
ClearOS is a good choice for network users who want a flexible and powerful Linux distro that can handle their network and security needs. ClearOS can run on any x86 computer, and supports many network devices and protocols. ClearOS also has a web-based interface, where users can easily configure and monitor their network and server settings. ClearOS also has a marketplace, where users can install and update additional applications and features, such as file sharing, email, and backup.
Best Linux distro for innovation: Nitrux
Nitrux is a Linux distro that is focused on innovation and creativity. Nitrux is based on Ubuntu, but has its own software repository and release cycle. Nitrux is known for its unique and modern desktop environment, called NX Desktop, which is built on KDE Plasma and Qt. Nitrux also uses AppImages, which are portable and self-contained applications that can run on any Linux distro without installation or dependencies.
Nitrux is a good choice for users who want a fresh and innovative Linux distro that offers a different and exciting user experience. Nitrux can run on most modern computers, and supports many hardware devices and drivers. Nitrux also has a vibrant and passionate community of developers and users, who provide updates, support, and feedback. Nitrux also has several tools and features, such as MauiKit, a framework for developing cross-platform applications, and znx, a tool for deploying and managing multiple Linux distros on a single device.