¶ Debian
Debian is a popular and highly respected open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel. Known for its stability, security, and broad package repository, Debian serves as the foundation for many other Linux distributions, including Ubuntu.
¶ Features
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Stability and Security: Debian is known for being one of the most stable Linux distributions. Its security is ensured through rigorous testing and patching of vulnerabilities.
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Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS): Debian adheres strictly to the principles of free software and includes only FOSS in its main repository. Non-free software is available in separate repositories.
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Package Management: Debian uses the APT (Advanced Package Tool) system with .deb packages, making it easy to install, update, and remove software.
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Broad Architecture Support: Debian supports a wide range of hardware architectures, making it highly versatile for both old and new systems.
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Large Software Repository: With over 50,000 packages, Debian has one of the largest software repositories, providing users with a wide array of tools and applications.
¶ Releases
- Stable: Debian 13 “trixie” (current stable). Latest point release: 13.4 (March 2026).
- Oldstable: Debian 12 “bookworm”. Latest point release: 12.13 (January 2026). Next: 12.14 planned for May 16, 2026.
- Testing: “forky” (rolling). Contains packages being tested for the next stable release (expected ~2027).
- Unstable (Sid): The bleeding edge of Debian development, where new software is introduced and tested.
- OldOldStable: Debian 11 “bullseye” (LTS until August 2026).
- Release Cycle: Approximately 2 years between major releases; point releases every 1-2 months for stable.
¶ Version History
| Version | Codename | Latest Point Release | Release Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Debian 13 | trixie | 13.4 (2026-03-14) | https://www.debian.org/releases/trixie/ |
| Debian 12 | bookworm | 12.13 (2026-01-10) | https://www.debian.org/releases/bookworm/ |
| Debian 11 | bullseye | 11.11 (2024-08-31) | https://www.debian.org/releases/bullseye/ |
| Debian 10 | buster | 10.13 (2022-09-10) | https://www.debian.org/releases/buster/ |
| Debian 9 | stretch | 9.13 (2020-07-18) | https://www.debian.org/releases/stretch/ |
| Debian 8 | jessie | 8.11 (2018-06-23) | https://www.debian.org/releases/jessie/ |
| Debian 7 | wheezy | 7.11 (2016-06-04) | https://www.debian.org/releases/wheezy/ |
| Debian 6 | squeeze | 6.0.10 (2014-07-19) | https://www.debian.org/releases/squeeze/errata |
| Debian 5 | lenny | 5.0.10 (2012-03-17) | https://www.debian.org/releases/lenny/ |
| Debian 4 | etch | 4.0.9 (2010-02-16) | https://www.debian.org/releases/etch/ |
| Debian 3.1 | sarge | 3.1r8 (2008-07-26) | https://www.debian.org/releases/sarge/ |
| Debian 3.0 | woody | 3.0r6 (2006-06-20) | https://www.debian.org/releases/woody/ |
| Debian 2.2 | potato | 2.2r7 (2003-06-06) | https://www.debian.org/releases/potato/ |
| Debian 1.1 | buzz | 1.1 (1996-06-17) | https://www.debian.org/releases/1.1/ |
Support Status (2026): Debian 13 (stable, full support until Aug 2028, LTS until Jun 2030), Debian 12 (oldstable, full support until Jun 2026, LTS until Jun 2028), Debian 11 (LTS until Aug 2026), Debian 10 and older (end of life).
¶ Use Cases
- Servers: Due to its stability and security, Debian is often used for servers in enterprise environments.
- Desktops: While not as user-friendly as some other distributions, Debian can be customized for desktop use, and many desktop environments are available, including GNOME, KDE, and Xfce.
- Development: Many developers prefer Debian for its vast repository and adherence to FOSS principles.