List of Linux distributions
Wikimedia list article

This page provides general information about notable Linux distributions in the form of a categorized list. Distributions are organized into sections by the major distribution or package management system they are based on.
Debian-based
Debian (a portmanteau of the names "Deb" and "Ian") Linux is a distribution that emphasizes free software. It supports many hardware platforms. Debian and distributions based on it use the .deb package format and the dpkg package manager and its frontends (such as apt or synaptic).
Ubuntu-based
Ubuntu (named after the Nguni philosophy of ubuntu) is a distribution based on Debian, designed to have regular releases, a consistent user experience and commercial support on both desktops and servers.
Official derivatives
These Ubuntu variants, also known as Ubuntu flavours, simply install a set of packages different from the original Ubuntu, but since they draw additional packages and updates from the same repositories as Ubuntu, all of the same software is available for each of them.
Unofficial derivatives
Unofficial variants and derivatives are not controlled or guided by Canonical Ltd. and generally have different goals in mind.
Knoppix-based
Knoppix (a portmanteau of the surname Knopper from Klaus Knopper and Unix) itself is based on Debian.
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