Debian is a computer operating system composed entirely of software which is both free and open source. Its primary form, Debian GNU/Linux, is a popular and influential Linux distribution.

Debian is known for its adherence to the Unix and free software philosophies, and for its abundance of options — the current release includes over eighteen thousand software packages for eleven computer architectures. These architectures range from the common Intel/AMD 32-bit/64-bit architectures found in personal computers to the ARM architecture commonly found in embedded systems and the IBM eServer zSeries mainframes. Throughout Debian's lifetime, many other distributions have taken it as a basis to develop their own, some include: Ubuntu, MEPIS, Dreamlinux, Damn Small Linux, Xandros, Knoppix, Linspire, sidux, Kanotix, and LinEx among many others. A university's study stated that Debian's 283 million source code lines would cost 10 billion USD to develop by conventional means.

Debian is also known for its package management system (especially APT), for its strict policies regarding its packages and the quality of its releases. These practices afford easy upgrades between releases and easy automated installation and removal of packages. Debian uses an open development and testing process. It is developed by volunteers from around the world and supported by donations through SPI, Inc., a non-profit umbrella organization for free software projects.

Debian's default install is very complete, providing the user with popular programs such as: OpenOffice, Iceweasel browser, Evolution mail, CD/DVD writing programs, music/video players, image viewers/editors, PDF viewers and many others. Only the first CD/DVD is necessary for the default install; the remaining discs contain all 18,000+ extra programs and packages currently available. If a user does not wish to download the CDs/DVDs, these extras can be downloaded separately using the package manager. Debian can also be configured to download and install updates automatically.

Registration Date: Wednesday 02/27/2008 at 14:26 CST
License: Other Multiple Open Licenses
Development Status: 6 - Mature