Slackware15.0
The oldest maintained distribution, simple by design.
What is Slackware?
Slackware has been maintained since 1993 and keeps a deliberately UNIX-like approach: plain text configuration, BSD-style init scripts, and package tools that do not resolve dependencies automatically. Stable releases are infrequent, while the -current branch moves forward between them.
Who is Slackware for?
Slackware fits best for servers and development. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #3 of 12: Linux distros without systemd
- #3 of 7: Linux distros that still support 32-bit PCs
- #6 of 13: best Linux distros for servers
- #16 of 29: best Linux distros for programming and development
Pros
- Simple, transparent system design
- Very long project history
- Minimal distribution-specific tooling
Cons
- No automatic dependency resolution
- Long gaps between stable releases
Slackware system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 2 GB of RAM, and less is workable with a light desktop. Slackware is available for x86_64, i686, including 32-bit PCs. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
Slackware versions and support dates
| Version | Released | Latest | Support ends | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slackware 15.0 | Feb 3, 2022 | 15.0 | Not announced | Supported |
| Slackware 14.2 | Jul 1, 2016 | 14.2 | Jan 1, 2024 | Ended |
| Slackware 14.1 | Nov 7, 2013 | 14.1 | Jan 1, 2024 | Ended |
| Slackware 14.0 | Sep 28, 2012 | 14.0 | Jan 1, 2024 | Ended |
| Slackware 13.37 | Apr 28, 2011 | 13.37 | Jul 5, 2018 | Ended |
| Slackware 13.1 | May 24, 2010 | 13.1 | Jul 5, 2018 | Ended |
| Slackware 13.0 | Aug 28, 2009 | 13.0 | Jul 5, 2018 | Ended |
| Slackware 12.2 | Dec 11, 2008 | 12.2 | Dec 9, 2013 | Ended |
Source: endoflife.date. Support scope varies by product; confirm on the project’s site.
Try Slackware before you install
Write the image to a USB stick and boot it as a live session to test Wi-Fi, graphics, sound, and suspend on your own computer. A browser trial on DistroSea shows the desktop, but cannot verify your hardware.
Compare Slackware with…
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Slackware: common questions
What is Slackware based on?
Slackware is an independent distribution; it is not derived from another Linux distribution. It uses pkgtool · slackpkg for software and BSD-style init as its init system.
What is the latest version of Slackware?
The latest Slackware release is 15.0, released Feb 3, 2022, according to endoflife.date.
Is Slackware good for beginners?
Not usually. Slackware expects hands-on configuration and maintenance. Beginners are better served by Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or Zorin OS.
How much RAM does Slackware need?
We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop experience with a modern browser. This is editorial guidance, not the project’s official minimum, which can be lower. It runs on x86_64, i686.
What desktop does Slackware use?
Slackware offers KDE Plasma, Xfce.
Is Slackware a rolling release?
No. Slackware uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Slackware free?
Yes, Slackware is free to download and use.