If you’re new to the world of Linux, Slackware Linux is a great distribution to start with. This operating system is one of the oldest and most stable Linux distributions available. It is also known for its simplicity, reliability, and security, making it a favorite among developers and system administrators.
In this article, we will explore what Slackware Linux is, its features, how to install it, and how to use it. We’ll also discuss some of the advantages of it and why you should consider using it.
What is Slackware Linux?
It is a free and open-source operating system that was first released in 1993 by Patrick Volkerding. It is based on the Linux kernel and is known for its simplicity and stability. Slackware Linux uses the traditional UNIX-style command-line interface, which can be intimidating to new users, but it offers more power and control over the system.
It is highly customizable, and users have complete control over the system. This means that users can choose which software to install, how to configure the system, and what services to run. This level of control also means that users need to have some knowledge of the Linux command line and system administration.
Features of Slackware Linux
Slackware Linux is known for its simplicity and stability, but it also offers several features that make it a popular choice for developers and system administrators.
Here are some of the key features of it:
- Simple and Stable: It is known for its simplicity and stability. It has a minimalist design, which means that it only includes essential software and libraries. This design philosophy makes Slackware Linux highly reliable and stable.
- Customizable: It is highly customizable, and users have complete control over the system. This means that users can choose which software to install, how to configure the system, and what services to run.
- Security: It is known for its security. It includes several security features, such as firewalls, encryption, and secure authentication. Slackware Linux is also designed to be hardened against attacks, making it a popular choice for servers and critical systems.
- Traditional UNIX-style interface: It uses the traditional UNIX-style command-line interface. This interface can be intimidating to new users, but it offers more power and control over the system.
How to Install Slackware Linux
Installing it can be a bit challenging, especially for new users. However, the installation process is well-documented and straightforward.
Here are the steps to install it:
- Download the ISO image of Slackware Linux from the official website.
- Make the bootable USB with the ISO file of Slackware Linux
- Insert the CD or USB drive into the computer and boot from it.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to install it.
- During the installation process, you will need to partition your hard drive, select the software packages to install, and configure the system.
- Once the installation is complete, you can log in to your new Slackware Linux system.
Using Slackware Linux
It uses the traditional UNIX-style command-line interface, which can be intimidating to new users. However, with some practice and patience, you can learn to use the command line efficiently.
Here are some basic commands to get new Linux users started:
ls – list down the files and directories in the current directory.
cd – change the current directory.
mkdir – create a new directory.
rm – remove a file or directory.
nano – edit a file.
top – view system processes and resource usage.
Advantages of Slackware Linux:
- Stability: It is known for its stability, making it an ideal choice for mission-critical systems.
- Security: It is designed to be hardened against attacks, with built-in security features such as firewalls and encryption.
- Customizability: It is highly customizable, giving users complete control over the system.
- Simplicity: It has a minimalist design that makes it easy to use and understand.
- Traditional command-line interface: It uses the traditional UNIX-style command-line interface, providing users with more power and control over the system.
Conclusion:
Slackware Linux is an excellent choice for users who want a stable, secure, and customizable operating system. While the traditional command-line interface can be intimidating for new users, it offers more control over the system and can be learned with some practice. If you’re looking for an operating system that prioritizes stability and security, it is definitely worth considering.