Cybersecurity is having a very dynamic year so far, even breaking records. Not only are tons of software vulnerabilities being exploited in 2021, but with the current turbulence between Washington and Beijing, it looks like the APT and ransomware monsters are coming back after a brief hib…….
Category: Slackware
#The Ins and Outs of Slackware: A Comprehensive Guide to the Oldest Surviving Linux Distribution
If you’re a fan of Linux, chances are you’ve heard of Slackware. This open-source operating system has been around since 1993, making it the oldest surviving distribution of Linux. But despite its age, Slackware has remained a popular choice among users and developers alike. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Slackware, exploring its history, features, and why it continues to stand the test of time.
##A Brief History of Slackware
Slackware was created by Patrick Volkerding at the University of Minnesota in 1993. At the time, Linux was still a relatively new concept, and many of the existing distributions were complex and difficult to install. Volkerding saw an opportunity to create a more user-friendly and stable distribution, and the first version of Slackware was born.
Over the years, Slackware has remained true to its original philosophy of simplicity, stability, and an open development process. It has also stayed true to its roots, as it is still maintained by Volkerding and a small team of developers.
##Features of Slackware
Slackware is known for its simplicity and stability, and this is reflected in its features. It uses a simple but powerful package management system called “pkgtools”, which makes it easy to install and update software. This system is also highly customizable, making it easy for users to tailor their system to their exact needs.
Another key feature of Slackware is its focus on keeping packages as close to their original state as possible. This means that users can have a high level of control over their system without worrying about conflicts or dependencies.
Additionally, Slackware is known for its minimalistic approach. The default installation includes only basic packages, allowing users to build their system from the ground up without any unnecessary bloat. This makes it a popular choice for servers, as it offers a lightweight and stable platform for hosting.
##Why Choose Slackware?
With so many other distributions available, you may be wondering what sets Slackware apart. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider using Slackware for your next project:
– Stability: As mentioned earlier, Slackware is known for its stability. This is due to its minimalistic approach and its commitment to keeping packages as close to their original form as possible.
– Simplicity: The installation process for Slackware is simple and straightforward. This makes it an ideal choice for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-on approach.
– Customizability: Slackware’s package management system allows for a high level of customization. This means that users can build a system that suits their specific needs and preferences.
– Reliability: Slackware is known for its reliability and long-term support. Since its release in 1993, there have only been 26 official releases, with the latest version, 14.2, being released in 2016.
##Getting Started with Slackware
Ready to give Slackware a try? Here’s how to get started:
1. Download the latest ISO image from the official website.
2. Burn the ISO image to a CD or create a bootable USB drive.
3. Boot from the CD or USB drive and follow the prompts to install Slackware.
4. Once the installation is complete, you can start customizing your system and installing additional packages.
##Slackware and the Future of Linux
Despite being the oldest surviving distribution of Linux, Slackware continues to have a strong and dedicated community. It has also paved the way for other popular distributions such as Debian and Ubuntu.
In recent years, Slackware has focused on modernizing its infrastructure and improving user experience while staying true to its core principles. As technology continues to evolve, Slackware remains a reliable and viable option for those seeking a stable and customizable Linux experience.
##In Conclusion
Slackware may be the oldest surviving Linux distribution, but it is far from outdated. Its commitment to simplicity, stability, and customization has allowed it to stand the test of time and remain a popular choice among users and developers. So why not give it a try and experience the power and versatility of Slackware for yourself?
##Frequently Asked Questions
###Q: Is Slackware suitable for beginners?
A: While Slackware may not be the most user-friendly distribution, it can be a great choice for those who want to learn more about Linux. With a bit of patience and determination, even beginners can master it.
###Q: Can I use Slackware as my primary operating system?
A: Yes, Slackware can be used as a primary operating system for personal use or as a server.
###Q: Can I install additional software on Slackware?
A: Yes, Slackware has a wide selection of additional packages available for installation through its package management system.
###Q: Is Slackware still actively maintained?
A: Yes, Slackware is actively maintained by its creator, Patrick Volkerding, and a small team of developers.
###Q: Is Slackware free to use?
A: Yes, Slackware is an open-source operating system and can be downloaded and used for free.
When talking about Linux, users often think about the distributions they use — Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, openSUSE, and so on. But in the beginning, there were no Linux distributions — users had to go through quite a bit of fuss to have a working Linux-based system. The first distributions ha…….
The Salix Xfce 14.2 GNU/Linux operating system is in development, and it looks like a public Beta version has just been released into the wild, allowing the community to see what’s coming in the Slackware-based OS.
Salix Xfce 14.2 Beta 1 arrives on June 15, 2016, three months after the Alp…….
After many months of hard work, two Betas and two RCs, Patrick J. Volkerding is extremely proud to announce today, July 2, 2016, the release and immediate availability for download of the final Slackware 14.2 Linux operating system.
Slackware Linux 14.2 arrives two and a half months after …….
Slackware doesn’t try to pre-empt you – it doesn’t attempt to guess what you want to do and what you’re using the installation for. You might be running it as a server or router, in which case the default boot-up mode (to a text login) is perfect. Chances are you’ll want to use it in graphical mo…….