Forgotten Linux Treasures On DistroWatch

Summary

In this video, the creator delves into the website DistroWatch, highlighting its controversial ranking system, particularly regarding Linux Mint and MX Linux. The video goes beyond the rankings, exploring lesser-known Linux distributions and their unique features. The creator touches on interesting but often forgotten distributions, such as UI (a lightweight Slackware-based tool) and Tiny Core Linux, which is known for its minimal 16MB footprint. The video explores the design choices behind various Linux systems and suggests that DistroWatch's value lies in discovering obscure but intriguing Linux distributions and their design philosophies.

Takeaways

• 😀 DistroWatch is a website that tracks the popularity of Linux distributions based on page hits, which recently sparked some controversy when MX Linux overtook Linux Mint in the rankings.
• 😀 The controversy surrounding DistroWatch rankings isn't the main focus; the real value is in discovering lesser-known Linux distributions and their unique features.
• 😀 DistroWatch has hundreds of Linux distributions, many of which are variations of popular desktop environments or spins based on Debian or Ubuntu.
• 😀 Hidden gems on DistroWatch offer unique design choices and interesting packages that are not widely known, making it a valuable resource for Linux enthusiasts.
• 😀 UI, a distribution based on Slackware from Latvia, is lightweight and primarily designed for recovery tasks, making it ideal for emergency situations or minimalistic environments.
• 😀 FVWM (F Virtual Window Manager) is a nostalgic, highly customizable window manager from the early days of Linux, offering a minimalist environment reminiscent of the 1980s.
• 😀 Tiny Core Linux is an incredibly lightweight distribution, with its graphical version weighing just 16MB, offering fast boot times and flexibility for small devices or low-resource environments.
• 😀 Tiny Core Linux supports multiple window managers, including less common ones like IceWM and FLWM, providing a retro feel and a variety of user interfaces.
• 😀 Brazil OS (BRO) is a distribution tailored specifically for Brazilian users, based on Debian with KDE Plasma, showcasing how Linux can be customized for local preferences.
• 😀 DistroWatch’s true value lies not in the rankings but in exploring niche Linux distributions that showcase unique design ideas, use cases, and local adaptations.
• 😀 DistroWatch could inspire individuals to create their own Linux distributions based on specific needs, such as targeting a particular location or solving a unique problem.

Q & A

What is DistroWatch, and why is it significant in the Linux community?

DistroWatch is a website that provides information about Linux distributions, including news, release cycles, and page hit rankings. It's significant because it offers a comprehensive database of hundreds of Linux distributions and allows users to compare them based on popularity, packages, and design choices.

What controversy recently surrounded DistroWatch's rankings?

The controversy was about the page hit rankings, where MX Linux took the top spot instead of Linux Mint, which caused some people to claim the rankings were rigged. However, the script's author does not focus on the controversy but instead on the website's content and lesser-known distributions.

What is the main focus of the video?

The main focus of the video is exploring lesser-known or forgotten Linux distributions found on DistroWatch. The script highlights the unique design choices, packages, and lightweight nature of these distributions, rather than focusing on the top-ranked ones.

What is UI Linux, and why is it notable?

UI Linux is a lightweight, live bootable Linux distribution based on Slackware. It is designed for system recovery and quick booting on low-resource systems. The use of FVWM (a retro window manager) makes it notable for users who prefer minimalism and speed.

How does Tiny Core Linux differ from other Linux distributions?

Tiny Core Linux is notable for being extremely lightweight, with a graphical desktop environment that weighs only 16MB. It focuses on minimalism and fast booting, allowing users to add only the necessary packages. Its modular design and extremely low resource usage set it apart from other distributions.

What makes Tiny Core Linux appealing for specific use cases?

Tiny Core Linux is ideal for use on older or low-resource hardware, as it can run with minimal memory and CPU usage. Its modular system also allows users to customize the setup by only installing essential software, making it a good choice for system recovery or lightweight computing.

What window managers are available on Tiny Core Linux?

Tiny Core Linux offers several window managers, including DWM (Dynamic Window Manager), IceWM, and I3, as well as others like WMFS and Hackbox. These options cater to users who prefer different styles of window management, from floating to tiling window managers.

What is the significance of Brazil OS (B.R.O)?

Brazil OS (B.R.O) is a Linux distribution created specifically for users in Brazil. While it is based on Debian and uses KDE Plasma, its regional focus and the cultural customization for Brazilian users make it a unique Linux distribution for that community.

What types of information does DistroWatch provide about each distribution?

DistroWatch provides detailed information about each distribution, including release cycles, available packages, popularity rankings, and reviews. Users can explore design choices and see how distributions compare to each other in terms of features and updates.

What does the script suggest about DistroWatch's value for Linux users?

The script suggests that DistroWatch is valuable for exploring Linux distributions beyond the mainstream ones. It offers insights into forgotten or niche distributions that might be more suitable for specific use cases, like low-resource environments, or for users interested in experimenting with unique setups.