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Linux Distro Testing – My Experience

Introduction

Since the start of my 3rd semester, I have been exploring various Linux distributions to understand their features, performance, and usability. This document highlights my experience with different distros, my observations, and my current setup.

Tested Linux Distributions

I have tested the following Linux distributions:

1. CentOS – My first tested distro, known for enterprise-grade stability and security.
2. Ubuntu – A user-friendly, widely supported distro for everyday use.
3. Debian – Highly stable and secure, commonly used for servers and workstations.
4. Darwin – The Unix-based core of macOS, offering a stable and developer-friendly environment.
5. Linux Lite – Lightweight and optimized for ease of use, great for beginners.
6. Puppy Linux – Super lightweight, designed for live sessions and low-end hardware.
7. LXLE – Built for reviving older PCs with a lightweight yet feature-rich experience.

8. Red Hat Servers – Used for in-depth exploration of Enterprise Linux and SSH services.

Experience and Observations

• CentOS and Red Hat servers gave me valuable insights into enterprise systems and remote server management.
• Ubuntu was a great transition due to its balance of ease of use and powerful features.
• Debian proved to be a solid and reliable choice for stability.
• Darwin/macOS became my default OS when I switched to a Mac laptop.
• Linux Lite, Puppy Linux, and LXLE were useful for lightweight computing needs.
• Red Hat servers introduced me to enterprise-level Linux operations and SSH services.

Current Setup

I now primarily use a Mac laptop with macOS (Darwin) but run Debian via UTM for Linux-related tasks. This allows me to leverage both macOS's stability and Debian's open-source flexibility.

Comparison Table

Distro	Lightweight	Stability	Customizability	Best Use Case
CentOS	❌	✅	✅	Enterprise, Security
Ubuntu	❌	✅	✅	Daily Driver, Development
Debian	❌	✅	✅	Servers, Workstations
Darwin	❌	✅	✅	macOS Base, Unix-Like Experience
Linux Lite	✅	✅	✅	Windows Transition, Lightweight Usage
LXLE	✅	✅	✅	Reviving Old PCs
Puppy Linux	✅	✅	❌	Live Sessions, Low-end Hardware
Red Hat Servers	❌	✅	✅	Enterprise, SSH Services

Conclusion

After testing multiple Linux distributions, I now use macOS (Darwin) as my primary OS and run Debian through UTM for Linux-related work. My journey through various Linux environments has provided me with deep insights into enterprise and lightweight computing.