Fedora (software)

Fedora (software)
Name	Fedora
Developer	Fedora Project (sponsored by Red Hat)
Released	06 November 2003
Latest release version	40
Latest release date	23 April 2024
Programming language	C, Python, Rust
Genre	Linux distribution
License	Various free licenses, primarily GNU General Public License
Website	https://fedoraproject.org/

Fedora (software). Fedora is a popular Linux distribution developed by the Fedora Project and sponsored by Red Hat. It serves as a community-driven upstream source for the commercial Red Hat Enterprise Linux operating system. Known for its commitment to free software and rapid innovation, Fedora integrates the latest advancements from the Linux kernel, GNOME desktop environment, and other key open-source projects.

History

The project originated from the merger of the Red Hat Linux and Fedora Linux projects in 2003, following Red Hat's decision to focus its commercial efforts on Red Hat Enterprise Linux. The inaugural release, Fedora Core 1, codenamed "Yarrow", was made available in November 2003. Key figures in its early development included Warren Togami and many contributors from the wider Free software movement. Over time, the project's governance evolved, establishing the Fedora Project Board and a clear governance structure to guide its development. Major milestones include the introduction of the Fedora Core/Fedora Extra repository split, the unification into a single repository, and the adoption of technologies like systemd and the Wayland display server protocol.

Features

Fedora is renowned for its strong emphasis on security, implementing technologies like SELinux by default for mandatory access control. It features a rapid release cycle, with new versions arriving approximately every six months, ensuring users have access to the latest software. The distribution is a leading showcase for the GNOME desktop environment but also offers official "spins" featuring KDE Plasma, Xfce, and other desktop options. It serves as a primary development platform for numerous emerging technologies, including Flatpak application packaging, the PipeWire audio and video server, and the BPF compiler collection for performance analysis.

Editions and variants

The primary edition is **Fedora Workstation**, tailored for desktop and laptop users and featuring the GNOME desktop. **Fedora Server** is optimized for data center operations, offering roles for DNS, identity management, and database services. **Fedora IoT** is designed for deployment on a wide array of Internet of Things and embedded devices. The project also produces specialized builds like **Fedora CoreOS**, a minimal, container-optimized OS that auto-updates, and **Fedora Cloud**, images for major cloud platforms such as AWS and Microsoft Azure. Community "spins" and "labs" provide alternative desktop environments and curated software stacks for specific workflows like scientific computing, security, and design.

Development and community

Development is managed openly by the Fedora Project, with oversight from a Fedora Council that includes representatives from Red Hat and elected community members. Contributions are organized into teams focusing on areas like quality assurance, documentation, marketing, and translation. The project operates on a release engineering model with clearly defined freeze dates for string, feature, and code freezes. Major decisions are discussed on mailing lists, forums, and the Fedora Discussion platform, with initiatives like the Fedora Modularity project being debated and developed in this open fashion. Key community events include the annual Flock conference and various Fedora Activity Day events worldwide.

Software and package management

Software is primarily distributed through the DNF package manager, which handles dependency resolution and updates using the RPM Package Manager format. The primary software repository is **Fedora Linux**, containing thousands of packages that adhere to the project's strict free software guidelines. Third-party repositories, such as RPM Fusion, provide additional software including proprietary drivers and multimedia codecs. For application distribution, Fedora heavily promotes the use of Flatpak and Flathub, enabling sandboxed, cross-distribution application deployment. The Fedora Copr build service allows developers and users to create and share custom packages easily.

Reception and adoption

Fedora is consistently praised by publications like Ars Technica and Phoronix for its cutting-edge technology, robust security features, and polished desktop experience. It has been recognized for its role in advancing the broader Linux ecosystem, often being the first distribution to adopt new Linux kernel versions and core platform libraries. The distribution is used by a variety of organizations, including the U.S. Department of Energy, NASA, and the CERN, for both general computing and specialized research tasks. While its rapid update cycle is seen as a benefit for developers and enthusiasts, some critics note it can introduce instability compared to more conservative distributions like Debian or Ubuntu LTS releases, influencing its adoption in certain enterprise environments.

Category:Linux distributions Category:Fedora (operating system) Category:Free software projects Category:Software using the GNU General Public License