🕵️‍♀️ Linux Release Models: Fixed, Semi-Rolling and Rolling 🕵️

 🕵️‍♀️ Linux Release Models: Fixed, Semi-Rolling and Rolling 🕵️

Linux is a popular operating system that comes in many different flavors, called distributions or distros. Each distro has its own way of managing software updates, which can be classified into three main models: fixed, semi-rolling and rolling. In this article, we will explain what these models are, give some examples of distros that use them, and discuss their pros and cons.

⏹️ Fixed Release Model
A fixed release model is also sometimes called by names static release, point release or versioned release. In this model, a new version of the distro is released after a fixed period of time, usually every 6 months or every year. The software packages in each version remain at the same version as long as that version of the distro is under support, so the inter-package compatibility is excellent. Only security updates and bug fixes are released for each version, while new features and major changes are reserved for the next version. Each version has its own ISO image that can be downloaded and installed.

Some examples of distros that use a fixed release model are Ubuntu, Fedora and Debian. Ubuntu releases a new version every 6 months, with a long-term support (LTS) version every 2 years that is supported for 5 years. Fedora releases a new version every 6 months, with a support period of 13 months. Debian releases a new version every 2 years, with a support period of 3 years.

The advantages of a fixed release model are:
- It provides a stable and reliable system that does not break easily.
- It is suitable for users who do not need the latest software and prefer stability over novelty.
- It is easier to test and debug the system before releasing it to the public.
- It is easier to maintain compatibility with third-party software and hardware.

The disadvantages of a fixed release model are:
- It does not offer the latest software and features that may be available in other distros or platforms.
- It may require frequent reinstallations or upgrades to keep up with the latest versions.
- It may not support newer hardware or drivers that are released after the distro's release date.
- It may become outdated or insecure if the support period ends and no longer receives updates.

🛑 Semi-Rolling Release Model
A semi-rolling release model is a hybrid between a fixed and a rolling release model. In this model, only some parts of the system are updated frequently, while others are frozen and only updated when a new version of the distro is released. The parts that are updated frequently are usually the third-party software packages, such as applications, games and utilities. The parts that are frozen are usually the core components of the system, such as the kernel, libraries and drivers.

An example of distros that use a semi-rolling release model is PCLinuxOS. This distribution is based on Mandriva Linux (discontinued), but it has its own independent development. It updates the desktop environments and applications frequently, but it maintains a fixed kernel and driver version. It also has a rolling testing repository for users who want to try the latest software

The advantages of a semi-rolling release model are:
- It offers a balance between stability and freshness, by providing both updated applications and stable core components.
- It reduces the risk of breaking the system by updating only some parts of it.
- It allows users to enjoy the latest software without sacrificing too much stability.
- It does not require frequent reinstallations or upgrades to keep up with the latest versions.

The disadvantages of a semi-rolling release model are:
- It may still cause some compatibility issues between the updated and frozen parts of the system.
- It may not offer the latest features or improvements in the core components of the system.
- It may not support newer hardware or drivers that are released after the distro's release date.
- It may become outdated or insecure if the support period ends and no longer receives updates.

⭕Rolling Release Model
A rolling release model is also sometimes called by names continuous release or bleeding edge release. In this model, there is no fixed schedule or version for releasing new updates. Instead, every package or software in the system is constantly updated as soon as the developers release it. There is no need to download or install a new ISO image to upgrade to the latest version. The system is always up-to-date with the latest software and features.

Some examples of distros that use a rolling release model are Arch Linux, Manjaro and openSUSE Tumbleweed. Arch Linux updates its packages from its own repositories as soon as they are available upstream. Manjaro updates its packages from its own repositories after testing them for stability and compatibility with Arch Linux. openSUSE Tumbleweed updates its packages from its own repositories after passing automated quality tests.

The advantages of a rolling release model are:
- It offers the latest software and features that may not be available in other distros or platforms.
- It does not require reinstallations or upgrades to keep up with the latest versions.
- It supports newer hardware and drivers that are released after the distro's release date.
- It is more flexible and customizable, as users can choose which packages to install or update.

The disadvantages of a rolling release model are:
- It may cause instability or breakage of the system due to frequent updates and changes.
- It is not suitable for users who prefer stability over novelty or who do not want to deal with potential issues.
- It is harder to test and debug the system before releasing it to the public.
- It is harder to maintain compatibility with third-party software and hardware.

Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no definitive answer to which Linux release model is best for you. It depends on your personal preferences, needs and expectations. You may want to try different distros that use different models and see which one suits you best. You may also want to consider other factors, such as the community support, documentation, security, performance and usability of each distro. Ultimately, the choice is yours. 🫵

Disclaimer
This article is based on our online research and practical experience with Linux distros. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or authoritative guide on the topic. It may contain errors or inaccuracies based on the available sources. Please do your own research and verification before making any decisions based on this article.👍