If you’re looking for a modern, reliable, and supported Linux distro by a vibrant open-source community, Fedora Linux operating system is worth considering. It’s famous for quickly embracing new tech and its focus on security, making it a go-to for developers, system administrators, and even casual users who love Linux.
So, what sets Fedora apart? Why choose it over other distros like Ubuntu, Debian, or Arch? This guide will cover everything you need to know about Fedora Linux, including its history, key features, different editions, installation steps, and much more.
What is Fedora Linux?
Fedora has been developed by the Fedora Project for over twenty years, receiving contributions from the community and Red Hat, a subsidiary of IBM. There are five main editions of Fedora: Workstation, Silverblue, Server, IoT (Internet of Things), and CoreOS. Additionally, specialized versions are available through Fedora Labs. Fedora serves as an upstream distro, meaning other Linux operating systems use it as a base. It is particularly known as the upstream distro for Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
Fedora has a quick release cycle, with new versions every six months and support lasting about a year. This offers users the latest features but can be challenging for those who prefer long-term stability.
Linux might seem like just an open-source version of Windows if you’re not very familiar with it, but that’s not entirely true. There are many different Linux-based operating systems, known as distributions or distros, and they can vary widely from one another. Each distro includes the Linux kernel, making it a Linux operating system. The kernel is the essential part of the OS, but you usually don’t interact with it directly. The distribution adds a user-friendly interface on top of the kernel, giving users more than just a basic command line.
Why Choose Fedora?
Fedora really keeps things fresh with its kernel and software updates, and I think they do an excellent job of providing a stable and user-friendly distribution. I’m a fan of the entire Red Hat family; the tools and customization options are great. It just feels more polished and professional compared to other distros.
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There are two types of use cases: desktop systems and servers. For servers, it’s important to have highly tested and stable packages to avoid any downtime that could cost millions in business. This is why many choose older, reliable packages. However, consumer desktops are different. Users want the latest features and the newest packages there.
Fedora: An In-Depth Look
- Fedora plays a key role in Linux development, influencing projects like Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
- Users have given positive feedback on the beta version of Fedora 25.
- A major highlight is the Wayland display server, which replaces the older X11 server.
- Fedora 25 works closely with the Gnome community, introducing features such as batch file renaming.
- Enhanced support for Flatpak is another important upgrade.
- Flatpak is a universal app packaging system that helps developers reach Linux users without worrying about specific distributions.
- This system speeds up application testing, allowing users to quickly access the latest version of LibreOffice.
- Linus Torvalds, the creator of Linux, prefers Fedora for its development features and up-to-date packages.
- Fedora is also recognized as an excellent choice for DevOps.
History and Background of Fedora Linux Operating System
Fedora Linux began in 2003 as an open-source project that continues the legacy of Red Hat Linux. In contrast, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) focuses on long-term stability. Fedora acts as a testing ground for new ideas, bringing in the latest features, software, and security updates.
- Fast innovation: Fedora is often the first to adopt new Linux technologies.
- Strong community support: It is created and maintained by the Fedora Project, which is backed by Red Hat.
- A testing ground for RHEL: Many features introduced in Fedora later make their way into RHEL.
Some Of The Key Features That Make Fedora Linux The Ideal Operating System
- Ships With Standard GNOME: One of the great things about Fedora is that it features a mostly standard GNOME desktop. This makes it attractive to users who enjoy the familiar GNOME experience while still providing some additional features through its mostly standard setup.
- User-Friendly: Fedora is very easy to use. Its simplicity makes it a top choice for many who want a reliable, secure, and powerful operating system.
- Cutting-Edge Software: Fedora releases updates every six months and does not have a long-term support version, ensuring you always have the latest updates, with the newest version being the main edition.
- Flexible and Powerful: Fedora Server is a flexible and robust operating system. It gives you full control over your infrastructure and services, incorporating the latest data center technologies.
- Large Community: Fedora has a strong community of users and contributors.
- Open-Source: Fedora is an open-source operating system available for anyone to use, and contributions are welcome.
- User-Friendly Interface: Fedora OS features an appealing interface, making it easy for users to navigate and operate.
- Pre-Installed Software: Fedora includes several pre-installed applications and tools, such as a web browser, document viewer, PDF viewer, and LibreOffice Suite.
- Lightweight: Fedora OS is stable, secure, and lightweight, supporting various architectures like IBM Z, Intel i686, and IBM Power64.
- Package Management: Fedora utilizes the RPM Package Management System and employs Delta RPM for package installation.
- With Fedora Developer Edition, developers can be setting up their PCs for programming work right away because it comes with pre-installed development tools, libraries, and IDEs like GCC, Python, Git, and Visual Studio Code.
Overview of Fedora Linux Editions
The Fedora Linux operating system offers multiple editions, such as the following:
Fedora Workstation: This desktop and laptop software package comes in both personal and business editions and offers a variety of general-purpose tools and apps.
Fedora Server: This version of the server comes with tools for administration and management, such as the Fedora Server Management Tool.
Fedora CoreOS is a cloud computing edition that comes with just the software packages required to run cloud-native apps.
Fedora IoT: An IoT edition for low-resource devices that comes with operating system management and update tools.
Fedora SilverBlue: Perfect for developers utilizing container-based workflows and consumers desiring immutable desktops.
Fedora spins & Labs: Tools and software packages tailored to particular use cases, such as design, gaming, and scientific computing.
Here’s How You Can Install & Set up The Fedora Linux Operating System Easily!
Here’s a complete guide to download free Fedora Linux operating system.
When it comes to installing Fedora Linux operating system, Some aspects remain consistent across all versions, despite the differences in their installation steps. So Follow these!
Fedora system requirements
Fedora has low system requirements, making it suitable for small and older devices. Here are the basic needs:
- 2GHz dual-core CPU
- 2GB of RAM
- 15GB of storage
Even older PCs from around 20 years ago can run it, but it’s better to use a more recent device. The recommended specifications are:
- 2GHz quad-core CPU
- 4GB of RAM
- 20GB of storage.
1. Download the software packages
The variations based on tasks and usage areas lead to different download options and processing methods.
To learn more about Fedora’s download choices, visit Fedora Downloads.
Go to the Fedora Project website to get a distribution file.
2. Create boot media
Installing on hardware typically requires transferring the downloaded file to a bootable medium, usually a USB stick. Fedora Media Writer is the recommended tool, created and supported by Fedora.
You can also use balenaEtcher or the Ventoy project, which work on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Ventoy is especially helpful if you want multiple distributions and versions on one stick.
3. Getting Extra Help
If you face issues not covered in the documentation, you can seek assistance from the community, including developers and users. There are various ways to get help: the Ask Fedora website, mailing lists, forums, or IRC.
Starting with the Ask Fedora discussion forum is recommended. Check Getting help for more details.
4. NVIDIA
If you have an NVIDIA GPU and notice major visual problems while using Fedora from a live USB, your GPU may not fully support the FOSS Nouveau driver. A possible solution involves these three steps:
- During the live USB boot, press e at the GRUB boot menu.
- Locate the line starting with linux and add nouveau.modeset=0 at the end.
- Press + x to continue the boot process.
Final Thoughts
Fedora Linux operating system is evolving, and innovative, with a strong open-source community. This guide explains why Fedora Linux is a significant player in the Linux world, it’s history, what features it offers, and moreover, how to download free Fedora Linux operating system. So whether you are new to Linux or an experienced user, Fedora caters to all.
But Is Fedora Linux the right choice for you? If you are a developer, tech enthusiast, or someone focused on security, Fedora is an excellent option. It offers the latest software, strong security features, and a vibrant open-source community. However, if you prefer long-term stability, consider Ubuntu LTS or Debian.
Key Takeaway – If you’re into a distro that gets regular updates and rolls out new features with each version, Fedora Linux operating system is a solid choice. It’s more user-friendly compared to some other options out there. While it might not be the best starting point for total beginners to Linux, it’s definitely not a bad option either.
FAQs
1. Is the Fedora Linux operating system free?
Yes, Fedora is completely free and open-source.
2. Can I use Fedora for gaming?
Absolutely! With RPM Fusion and Flatpak, you can easily install Steam, Lutris, and Proton for gaming.
3. How is Fedora different from Ubuntu?
Fedora uses DNF, has a faster release cycle, and focuses on cutting-edge technologies.
4. Does Fedora Linux operating system support NVIDIA drivers?
Yes, but you need to install them manually from RPM Fusion.
5. How do I upgrade Fedora to the latest version?
Use the command sudo dnf upgrade –refresh, then run sudo dnf install dnf-plugin-system-upgrade.
6. How do I download free Fedora Linux operating system? It’s very simple to download the Fedora Linux operating system:
- Install or Test Fedora: Boot from the USB to try Live Mode or install the system.
- Go to the Fedora Official Website: getfedora.org.
- Select an Edition: Fedora Workstation, Fedora Server, Fedora IoT, or Fedora Silverblue.
- Download the ISO File: Click the download link.
- Make a Bootable USB: Use tools like Fedora Media Writer or Balena Etcher for installation on a physical machine.
