5 Best Linux Distros For Programming

Linux’s distributions are highly recommended for web developers and programmers. The host operating system and web server on a Linux machine need to implement HTTP/HTTPS protocol and support Nginx, Apache, or any other suitable web server for that matter.

What is a Linux distribution?

A Linux distribution includes an embedded package management system, so it’s effortless to install additional software packages which can make your job easier; additionally, you can use any of the repositories from the different distributions present in the repositories section of their websites.

Linux distributions have excellent benefits and features stated above. There are various Linux distributions, but the best ones are always preferred when developing an application. Let’s look at the 5 Best Linux Distros For Programming and Web Development.

Best Linux Distros for Programming

Note: They are ordered in Level of Users from beginner to advance

1. Ubuntu

Renowned for its user-friendly experience and versatility, Ubuntu serves as an all-in-one solution for individuals, organizations, schools, and businesses. With pre-installed essential applications such as office suites, browsers, email clients, and media apps, Ubuntu ensures a seamless computing experience out of the box. Its vast software center offers access to thousands of additional applications and games. As a firm believer in open-source software, Ubuntu thrives due to its global community of passionate volunteer developers. The distribution leverages the latest technology, supporting high resolutions, touchscreen functionalities, fractional scaling, and touchpad gestures. Moreover, Ubuntu continues to evolve, with periodic updates and a dedicated theme, Yaru, that supports system-wide dark style settings and accent colors, providing users with a visually appealing and personalized experience.

Pros:

• User-friendly and easy to set up, making it ideal for beginners.
• Large community support and a vast repository of software packages are available through the Ubuntu Software Center.
• Regular releases with long-term support (LTS) versions, providing stability and security updates.
• Good compatibility with various hardware and peripherals.

Cons:

• Some developers might find the pre-installed applications and desktop environment to be bloated.
• Not as lightweight as some other distributions, which could be a concern for resource-constrained environments.

2. CentOS

CentOS stands as a robust and freely available Linux distribution, making it an excellent choice for web development. Based on the source code of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), CentOS offers a community-driven platform accessible to all without any cost. Designed to be 100% binary compatible with RHEL, it ensures seamless compatibility, allowing RHEL binaries to run without modification. Notable for its package updates and additional repositories, CentOS proves to be a reliable and stable option for various server applications.

Pros:

• Derived from the stable and enterprise-level Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL).
• Excellent for server applications and web development due to its reliability and security.
• Binary compatibility with RHEL allows running RHEL applications without modification.
• Strong community support and regular updates.

Cons:

• Might not be as user-friendly for beginners as other distributions like Ubuntu.
• The package selection might not be as extensive as some other distributions.

3. Fedora

As a product of Red Hat, Fedora takes the finest attributes of Red Hat Enterprise Linux and amalgamates them into a community-driven distribution. Like its enterprise counterpart, Fedora provides complete source code for numerous Linux software packages and extends advanced technical support for these components. Its user-friendly nature is evident through pre-installed software, while its vast community repository offers thousands of free applications for users to explore and utilize.

Pros:

• Known for its cutting-edge technologies and the latest software packages.
• Frequent releases, ensuring you have access to the latest features and improvements.
• Good support for developers and a wide range of programming tools available in its repositories.

Cons:

• More prone to potential bugs and issues due to its focus on being bleeding-edge.
• Shorter support cycles compared to Ubuntu’s LTS versions.

4. OpenSUSE

Favored by web developers, OpenSUSE emerges as a versatile Linux distribution. It boasts a building service that simplifies package creation for major Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, RHEL, and SLES. Developers can leverage this service even if they don’t use the OpenSUSE distribution, making it an invaluable resource for the larger Linux ecosystem.

Pros:

• Versatile and suitable for various use cases, including web development.
• OBS (OpenSUSE Build Service) allows easy package building for multiple Linux distributions.
• Different desktop environment options, providing flexibility and customization.

Cons:

• Smaller community compared to Ubuntu or Fedora.
• Not as popular or widely used as some other distributions, which could mean fewer resources and community-driven support.

5. Debian GNU/Linux

Debian is a Unix-like computer operating system that is composed entirely of free software. Debian is a project of the Free Software Foundation (FSF) and is a Linux distribution that can be used on all major Unix-like Operating Systems, including Linux, BSD variants such as FreeBSD and NetBSD, and macOS. The Debian project was founded in 1993 by Ian Murdock to ensure the development and distribution of free (as in freedom) software along with adding incentives for other developers to write free software. Originally named GNU/Linux, the official name was changed in 2001 to avoid confusion with the GNU project, which has had many names since its founding in 1981. Debian’s mascot is based on the iconic front cover of Donald Knuth’s The Art of Computer Programming.

Pros:

• A robust and stable distribution, making it suitable for servers and production environments.
• Enormous package repository, providing access to a wide range of software.
• Strong commitment to free and open-source software principles.

Cons:

• Installation and initial setup might be more involved for beginners.
• Not always the first choice for desktop use due to its focus on stability rather than the latest features.

Conclusion

In this article we have discussed the 5 best Linux distributions which provide a powerful platform for web developers and programmers, offering versatile tools and easy package management. Among the top 5 best Linux distros for programming and web development, Ubuntu stands out for its user-friendly experience, while CentOS excels in reliability and security. Fedora offers cutting-edge technologies, OpenSUSE provides flexibility, and Debian showcases a commitment to free software principles.