Most Stable Linux Distro

If you are migrating to the Linux platform, I must congratulate you on making a wise decision. Linux is no longer limited to the world of geeks. There are many new Linux distros on the horizon with user-friendly graphical user interface that have converted many to the open source software movement.

All Linux distributions (abbreviates as distros) have the same primary core of the Linux kernel, created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. They differ in the kind of exterior package of software programs that is built around the Linux kernel. They may differ in the kind of graphical user interfaces offered and all the utility programs used for running various applications. It is difficult to choose the best distro, as the stability factors depend on what function you are using it for. The advantages of Linux lie in the fact that it is inherently immune to computer virus attacks and is of course free.

One minimum criteria for stability is an expectation that the distribution is least buggy and performs well with respect to most basic applications. Distributions are run on ten of the fastest supercomputers of the world, which talks about their reliability.

Best Linux Distribution

As I stated before, I have chosen the distributions that have reported the best performance in most departments of computing with least reported bugs. Here are the distros that made the mark.

Debian GNU/Linux
Debian was first launched in 1993. Developed as a non-commercial project by a team of 1000 developers, it offers over 20,000 software packages for you to choose from. It can be run on the widest range of architectures and come with Gnome, KDE and many other desktop interfaces. Variety and stability are the two hallmarks of Debian. It comes in a desktop, LiveCD and server version.

Ubuntu
One of the best distributions, based on Debian, Ubuntu is Linux for humans, as in 'non-geeks'. With a Gnome desktop and a six monthly release cycle, this is one of the most user-friendly of computer operating systems. Its Debian lineage makes it a stable operating system which is ideal for beginners as it comes with loads of precise documentation.

Fedora 14
Another best open source operating system is Fedora 14. With support for a wide variety of architectures, this is one of the most stable distributions. It is quite a popular distribution among the scientific community.

openSUSE
With a KDE and Gnome desktop offered, openSUSE, sponsored by Novell is one of the most popular distributions to be released. With a wide range of software packages and compatibility with most computer architectures, this is one distribution that you must check out.

Slackware Linux
One of the most bug-free distributions, known for its high stability and performance, Slackware Linux has been around for quite some time. However, due to its complex upgrading method, it is not recommended for beginners.

I highly recommended Ubuntu, as well as Debian for their proven performance. Choose the distro which comes with the tools that suit your area of usage. You can always add more programs from the vast array of Linux repositories that are available online. Try a Live CD before getting the actual OS installed. Linux is for people who like to use computers and know what is happening under the hood. It is also the most secure operating systems compared to Windows or Mac systems. Try it out and see for yourself!