An Introduction to Spiral Linux: A Distro for Linux Beginners

Debian is one of the most widely used, trusted Linux distributions. It wouldn't be wrong to say that this is the base distribution for many other operating systems, making it one of the most requested versions of Linux.

Spiral Linux is one of the distributions derived from Debian. Its focus lies on promoting simplicity and providing superior features and functionality to end users.

If you are new to open source operating systems and want to get acquainted with an easy to use Linux distribution, it is time to switch to Spiral Linux.

What is Spiral Linux?

Spiral Linux is a distribution specifically designed for those who are new to the Linux world. This is the product of the developer GeckoLinux. This operating system deserves praise, making it remarkable in the long run.

While this distro caters to new users, there are some omissions that can be extremely helpful for first-time users. The lack of a welcome screen makes the boot experience feel incomplete, but doesn't completely change the experience.

Advanced users have customization options that they can make when booting into the system.

Spiral Linux desktop variants

While in the process of downloading Spiral Linux, you will get several desktop options to choose from. Some of these options include:

1. Cinnamon
2. GNOME
3. XFCE
4. KDE Plasma
5. Budgie
6. MATE
7. LXQt

Since Spiral Linux is based on Debian, you can expect a stable, well-functioning operating system for regular use. However, there is one obvious drawback that you need to be aware of.

Stable built apps; there is a slight delay between development and release to end users. However, latency doesn't make much of a difference, as patience is a real virtue to have with Debian releases.

The wait is worth it because you know you'll get a stable, well-functioning set of apps, developed and tested, before being released to a wide audience.

Since change is the only constant, there is a growing range of desktop-specific applications that you can convert. Experiment with different desktop versions to get the most out of each desktop's original packages.

There is also a version of Spiral Linux Builder, which uses the IceWM window manager and caters to experienced users who can customize the operating system according to their requirements.

System Requirements

Now that the concept and development of Spiral Linux is gone, here are some system requirements you need to meet before installing the operating system on your PC.

1. 64-bit systems : There is only one 64-bit system option available with Spiral Linux. You will not be able to download images that support 32-bit or ARM systems. If you need a 32-bit compatible operating system, you will need to install other Linux distributions that support the 32-bit architecture.

2. RAM : 2GB or more; depending on which desktop variant you choose

3. Drive : At least 15GB or more

4. Processor : Dual core or higher processor for optimized results

Install Spiral Linux

The developers provide a graphical installer, which simplifies the installation process. Alternatively, you can use the Calamares installer if you're comfortable using an installation framework.

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During the installation you have access to manual/automatic partitioning, choosing the bootloader location, encrypting the drive, etc. Alternatively, you can choose btrfs, which comes preconfigured with compression ( root Fedora) and automatic snapshot creation (a tribute to openSUSE).

It can be said that the latest distro is a safe clone of Fedora and openSUSE, as it draws many features and functions from both versions of Linux. Like its original versions (Debian and openSUSE), Spiral even boots directly into a live desktop.

However, there is one obvious difference to the proprietary drivers available in Spiral. Unlike Debian and openSUSE, Spiral comes with non-open source software and drivers that allow you to connect to the Internet to download and install software on the go.

Some other notable features include:

1. Power management enabled via TLP . utility

2. Low spec systems can use zRAM swap support to enhance performance

3. Basically, Debian GNU/Linux 11 Bullseye supports this operating system along with the latest Linux Kernel 5.16.

Operating system performance

From a performance perspective, you should hardly feel any challenge when running the operating system. Each desktop version is well optimized when it comes to RAM usage.

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For example, Cinnamon uses only 900MB of RAM, while XFCE uses only 600MB. In short, all your performance troubles will be solved, especially when you are working on the selected desktop version.

Package installation methods

In an ideal distribution, applications and packages play the most important role, determining how user votes change.

Spiral has Flatpak application support and a pre-installed GUI for relatively quick installation of applications. Preconfigured Flatpak themes add charm to the entire desktop layout.

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You get the graphical Synaptic Package Manager and the GNOME Software repository to download and install your favorite applications.

Otherwise, you cannot download any packages from the Snap Store, as there is no apparent compatibility between the desktop versions of Spiral and the Snap apps.

There is no excessive bloatware in the default packages, which allows the operating system to function as it should.

Switching from Debian stable to Testing

As is the case with other Debian distributions, you can switch between Testing and Unstable (unstable) modes with Spiral Linux. In Testing mode, you have access to new, unreleased, undeployed applications on the Stable version.

Perhaps, one of the best things is that you don't have to access a brand new operating system to log into Testing mode. You can easily upgrade to future versions of Debian from the command line, with a few lines of code.

Do you really need a new Linux distribution based on Debian?

Many users are questioning the need for another new Debian-based Linux distribution, as there are already many versions on the market. You may find Spiral Linux an easy operating system to install and use if you are a new user.

In short, Spiral Linux works well. It offers everything you could possibly need to immerse yourself in the Linux world. You can easily switch to another operating system to try out your newly acquired skills once you get a bit more used to its different nuances.

To get the most out of your Linux experience, you should always keep your requirements in mind, and then choose an operating system that's best for you.

Marvin Fry

Update 16 August 2022