What is Debian Linux?

Debian is a free, open-source operating system (OS) that forms the basis for Linux distributions. It is known for its commitment to stability, security and open software principles. Founded by Ian Murdock on March 16, 1993. Also known as Debian GNU/Linux. Debian is built on free and open-source software. This means you can use, modify and share it freely. Although Debian Core is completely free, it does offer additional free firmware or software. These items are not part of the official distribution but can be added as needed.

A global team of volunteers does Debian development. Together, they make a reliable, feature-rich and versatile OS. It maintains a large software repository of more than 59,000 products. These pre-assembled software packages contain a wide range of applications, making it easy to install and maintain software on your device. Debian uses the Advanced Package Tool (APT) for package management. APT makes it easy to install, update, and remove software. Debian systems currently use Linux or FreeBSD kernels. In addition, it supports multiple architectures, making it scalable across hardware platforms.

Popular Debian-Based Distros

There are three major distros in Debian-based Linux OS, which are described here.

MX Linux

MX Linux is a simple and powerful desktop operating system that has robust performance. Originally available in the XFCE desktop environment, it has been expanded to include the KDE and MX Linux Fluxbox environments. MX Linux offers a variety of devices, snap technology from AntiX, and an AntiX live USB system. It can be the best option for older PCs due to its low price, sleek UI, and user-friendly experience.

Linux Mint

Linux Mint is popular among users, experts and beginners. Known for its user-friendly and intuitive UI, it shares a package repository with Ubuntu. The latest release is Linux Mint 21 Vanessa, which is based on the Ubuntu 22.04 version. It comes in MATE, Xfce, and Cinnamon versions, which are small compared to the default GNOME desktop environment in Ubuntu. Mint includes everyday applications such as Firefox, LibreOffice, multimedia tools, image editors, etc.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is probably the best-known Debian-based distribution. It is widely used in desktop, server, and cloud environments. Ubuntu offers regular releases, Long-Term Support (LTS) versions, and a large software repository. Its default desktop environment is GNOME, but official flavors are available with other desktop environments like KDE, Xfce, and LXQt.

History of Debian

Debian was founded in August 1993 by Purdue University graduate student Ian Murdock. It is sponsored by The Free Software Foundation GNU Project and included under the General Public License (GPL). The GNU project supported Debian from January 1994 to December 1995. Debian is a global community working to develop a reliable, versatile, open-source operating system. The project adheres to the principles of robustness, security, and software, which opens the door.

Debian became a pillar for many other Linux distributions, such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and MX Linux. Its large software repository, robust package management, and commitment to free software continue to shape the Linux ecosystem.

Releases

The version name of the Debian Linux OS is based on the Toy Story character name. Debian's unstable, known as Sid, regularly destroyed his toys.

Features

With Debian Linux OS, you are provided with a number of features, which are listed as follows:

• Open Source: Debian is an open-source operating system, which means that anyone can easily contribute to making it work better and safer. It includes a fat and clean UI unique to Windows, with unnecessary ads and more. In addition, users are allowed to install, update and remove the software with APT (Advanced Package Tool).
• Stability: Debian is known for stability, reliability and latency. It provides regular security updates throughout the package's life. The Linux kernel supports most hardware, which means Debian supports a wide range of devices.
• Installation options: Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, Debian offers installation options. You can use the Live CD with the Calamares installer for easy installation or the Debian installer for smooth installation. Also, Debian is easily updated, whether you are upgrading to the latest version or updating individual packages.

Advantages

Unlike proprietary systems such as Windows or Mac, Debian is free and open-source. It's maintained by a community of volunteers who contribute their skills and time to develop and enhance the operating system. This openness has made Debian a foundation for other popular Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and PureOS.

Debian's long history (dating back to 1993) brings stability and maturity. Its expansive community provides abundant resources and support for both developers and users. Reputable software developers have extensive experience writing for Debian, ensuring a wealth of out-of-the-box and custom-made software.

Debian runs on various microprocessors, including Intel's x86-64 and i386, ARM, and Power ISA architectures. This compatibility allows it to run on older and newer systems, making it an excellent choice for refurbishing older personal computers. With over 59,000 software packages, Debian offers a vast library of applications and tools. Whether you're a desktop user or managing servers, you'll find what you need.

Disadvantages

Debian's release cycle tends to be conservative, which means it may lag in introducing new features compared to other Linux distributions or proprietary systems. While Debian prioritizes stability and security, this sometimes comes at the cost of using older versions of software packages. If you require the latest features, you might find Debian less appealing.

Debian adheres strictly to free and open-source principles. As a result, it lacks official support for some proprietary software. Unlike some commercial distributions, Debian doesn't offer extensive commercial support options. Users often rely on community forums and resources.

Although Debian supports various architectures, there might be compatibility issues with certain hardware components.

Hardware

To install Debian Linux on your system, the hardware requirements should be like this:

• Minimum Requirements: The CPU should be a Pentium 4 or similar, with 512 MB of RAM and 10 GB of free Disk Space.
• Preferred Requirements: For better Debian running on your system, the CPU should be a multi-core processor, 2 GB of RAM or more, and 20 GB of disk space or more.

Packages in Debian

There are a huge number of packages in the Debian distribution that support a variety of functions. Every package includes scripts, configuration information and documentation to provide pre-compiled software that an individual can install and operate easily on a Debian machine.

Debian packages are collections of files that allow applications or libraries to be distributed via the package management system. The goal of packaging is to automate installing, upgrading, configuring, and removing software consistently across Debian systems.

Types

Mainly there are two types of packages in Debian, which are described as follows:

• Binary Packages: These contain executables, configuration files, man/info pages, copyright information, and other documentation.
• Source Packages: These include the source code and build instructions for creating binary packages.

Package Sections in Debian

Debian packages are divided into four different sections that are pointed out here:

• Main: It contains packages that conform to the Debian Free Software Guidelines (DFSG). The Debian project fully supports these packages. Examples include required system utilities, libraries, and core applications. Users can rely on these packages for stability and security.
• Contrib: Some packages are not part of the core distribution but are mainly based on packages. These packages may be subject to license or license restrictions. Examples include software that relies on a proprietary library or codec. Users can use these packages but should be aware of any limitations.
• Free: This category includes packages that do not contain any DFSG-related licenses, authorizations, or other information. These packages can be exclusive or restricted licenses. Examples include firmware, drivers, and commercial software.

Way to Enable the Contrib and Non-free Components

In Debian, you have a couple of options that enable you to enable the contrib and non-free repositories:

Command Line with a Text Editor:

Open your terminal and run the following command to edit the sources.list file:

• Command

In the file, look for lines that start with "deb" and include "main". Add "contrib non-free" after "main" on each relevant line. For example:

• For Debian 12 and other distros:
  deb http://deb.debian.org/debian bookworm main contrib non-free-firmware
• For Debian 11, Debian 10, and earlier version:
  deb http://deb.debian.org/debian bookworm main contrib non-free

Now, save the file by pressing Ctrl+O and exit the text editor by going with the Ctrl+X buttons. Refresh the repositories with the following command:

• Command

Another Method: Software Properties Common

Install the software-properties-common package by running the given command:

• Command

Now, add the contrib repository using the given command:

• Command

Packages-Related Commands

To see the available and installed packages, run the given commands. You can use these commands on Debian-based distros like Ubuntu, Fedora, and Garuda Linux:

• To see the installed packages, run the given command in the Terminal:
  Command

• To view the available packages:
  Command

• For listing only Firefox-related available packages:
  Command

• To see the available packages that are upgradeable:
  Command

• To update the package list:
  Command

• To upgrade the packages:
  Command

• To upgrade the specific package:
  Command

Here, replace the package_name with the individual package name that you wish to upgrade.

• To upgrade the distribution:
  Command

• To clean up the remaining files after upgrading:
  Command

• To get information about a specific package
  Command

In the above command, put the specific package name in place of <package-name>.

For example, sudo apt show vim.

• To see the only installed packages with their version:
  Command

• To check the snap packages installed on the Linux Ubuntu system:
  Command

Repositories

A Debian repository is a collection of Debian binary or source packages organized in a special directory tree. It includes various infrastructure files such as checksums, indices, signatures, and descriptions. Client computers can connect to the repository to download and install packages using an Apt-based Package Management tool. Repositories are divided into releases and components. Each release contains packages for different architectures and sources. The actual package files (.deb files) reside in the pool directory.

Adding Repositories:

You can add repositories by going with Manual Editing, in which you edit the /etc/apt/sources.list file to add the repository. Another way is using the Command Line, in which you use the add-apt-repository utility. Also, you can utilize the GUI, which utilizes the Software & Updates application to add repositories.

Branches in Debian Linux

There are three main branches in Debian Linux: stable, testing and unstable. However, some other branches are also available, such as oldstable and oldoldstable. Let's read about them.

Debian has three main branches which are:

1. Stable: This is the latest version of Debian. It provides regular security updates that target complex and well-tested software requirements. Currently, the latest stable version is Debian 12, dubbed Bookworm.
2. Test: This is the current development or preview release of the next stable Debian version. It literally rises from an unstable branch. Experimental dependencies are always satisfactory. Users can use testing to balance stability with software updates.
3. Unstable (Sid): Unstable (codename "Sid") is a rolling Debian development package that contains the latest packages introduced in Debian. It works for the development branch.

Conclusion

Debian Linux is a robust and versatile operating system known for its robustness, security and commitment to free and open-source software. With its extensive package management system and wide range of available software, Debian caters to many user needs, from novice to experienced administrators. Its community-driven development ensures the continuous development of others and animals. As one of the leading OSes in the Linux family, Debian has earned a strong reputation for simple, reliable and customized computing solutions.