11 best Linux distributions for programmers
You can do many things on Linux distributions in addition to browsing. It is configured for most uses including programming.
Because Linux distributions are open source, packed with many useful tools, this is the ideal environment for developers. Linux is compatible with most programming languages, so this is the perfect platform to write code. Here are some of the best Linux distros for programmers.
The Linux desktop for developers
- 1. Ubuntu
- 2. Pop! _OS
- 3. Debian
- 4. CentOS
- 5. Fedora
- 6. Kali Linux
- 7. Arch Linux
- 8. Gentoo
- 9. NuTyX
- 10. OpenSUSE
- 11. elementary OS
1. Ubuntu
- Download Ubuntu for Linux
Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions. For developers and developers, Ubuntu LTS (Long-term Support) provides stability. Like Debian, Ubuntu uses the DEB package manager. Later versions of Ubuntu also offer Snap packages that make installing new software simpler.
This also explains why Ubuntu is a popular platform for new Linux users. It is also particularly useful for developers because the Snap package provides an easy way to package and distribute new software, while providing a large software repository for developer-friendly software.
2. Pop! _OS
https://system76.com/pop
Pop! _OS is a Linux operating system suitable for developers and developers. It is based on Ubuntu and uses the Gnome desktop environment, so this is a familiar Linux experience for most users.
This is one of the best Linux operating systems for programmers, thanks to the expansion of shortcuts, the selection of suitable software and the appropriate TensorFlow repository for scientific programmers. Pop! _OS is a good choice for System76 hardware users or for those who like simplicity.
3. Debian
https://www.debian.org/distrib/netinst
Debian is the 'grandparent' of hundreds of Linux distributions, suitable for developers with lots of help. Ubuntu is also extremely popular based on Debian, so if you already use this operating system, you won't see the difference. The stable release of Debian provides stable performance for the development environment and its test versions also provide constantly updated packages and software.
4. CentOS
https://www.centos.org/download/
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a Linux operating system developed by technology giant Red Hat. CentOS is an alternative to RHEL, taking all the best parts of RHEL and packing it in a free community release. Most RHEL commercial software runs easily on CentOS with the use of YUM package management.
CentOS also boasts an impressive software repository, as well as Red Hat Software Collections (RHSCL) for dynamic programming languages and open source databases. It provides the ideal environment for programmers to focus on business development and programming in general.
CentOS is also one of the best free Linux distributions for servers, making it a good platform for web development and testing.
5. Fedora
- Download Fedora for Linux
Like CentOS, Fedora is another community version of RHEL. This Red Hat distribution is perfect for developers looking for the latest software releases, as it has the latest update packages, as well as a system that provides automatic updates.
6. Kali Linux
- Download Kali Linux for Linux
Kali Linux is another Debian-based Linux operating system that focuses on security, so it incorporates many security testing tools. You will see John the Ripper password cracking tool, Aircrack-ng security checker and OWASP ZAP web application security scanner installed by default.
This is why Kali Linux has become the top choice for developers, developers and security researchers, especially if you are a web developer. This is also a good operating system for low-power devices, because Potassium Linux runs well on devices like Raspberry Pi.
- The best Linux distributions for Raspberry Pi
7. Arch Linux
https://www.archlinux.org/download/
If you're looking for a light but powerful operating system, try Arch Linux. This is one of the Linux developer distros with an adaptable and customizable platform that gives users complete control.
Arch originally did not come with a graphical user interface (GUI), if you were looking for a minimalist programming environment you should use it. The Arch installation process is a bit complicated, so it is suitable for professional Linux users.
8. Gentoo
https://www.gentoo.org/downloads/
Like Arch, Gentoo provides a means to completely control Linux installation from the start. It only provides package manager and Linux kernel. You can control everything during the operating system installation process, even compiling the source code for the distribution.
9. NuTyX
https://nutyx.org/en/downloads
NuTyX is a very flexible Linux distribution (albeit less well known) for developers. It gives complete control to users. Like Arch, NuTyX provides package and kernel managers, allowing users to create custom experiences, from choosing desktop environments to applications and more.
10. OpenSUSE
- Download OpenSUSE for Linux
OpenSUSE is a Linux distribution for programmers. It has the same LTS release as most other major distros. This distribution has an excellent package manager in YaST. OpenSUSE is stable and offers many installers on its website, including options for installing virtual machine management programs and different desktop environments.
OpenSUSE also provides fixed release and rolling release options. Selecting a diverse desktop environment and installing an intuitive application makes it one of the best Linux distributions for programmers.
11. elementary OS
- Download elementary OS for Linux
Although Linux operating systems including Ubuntu are quite user-friendly, elementary OS is much easier to use.
This new user-friendly Linux operating system has its own desktop environment in Pantheon, which looks very similar to macOS. Because of its simplicity, elementary OS is the perfect choice for novice developers with Linux, especially when familiar with the Apple environment.
On the first launch, you'll find all the usual apps including mail apps, photo apps and music apps. You can easily install developer software using the software center or with the apt package manager in the Terminal window.
Linux distributions provide a great environment for programming and development. Thanks to a wide selection of tools and support for programming languages, Linux distributions are very suitable for developers.
There are many options for different purposes such as code writing, application development, etc. If you are new you should install Ubuntu or Debian while professional developers are suitable for Arch or Gentoo.
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