Debian is an open source type of software that functions as a computer operating system. It was originally released in conjunction with Linux and while there are other versions available, this one remains the most popular. It works as a server operator, but also works on desktops. The philosophy behind the product relies on the basics of collaborative software and free products, which makes it a popular file sharing program. The Debian project allows volunteers to work on the project, tweaking the program in the hopes of perfecting it each year. The company also relies on private donations from individuals and companies as a way of staying afloat. Since Debian exists on a volunteer basis, there are no paid programmers working on the system. Experts have estimated that the software would cost over $800 million if one single company had developed it. The history of Debian dates back to August 16, 1993 when Ian Murdock originally announced its release. At the time it was known as the Debian Linux Release and was related to a previous operating system full of bugs that didn’t work as proposed. The project name was actually based on Murdock’s name, combined with the name of his then-girlfriend. The first version of Debian arrived in 1994, but changes to the software necessitated another release in 1995. They later released another version in 1995 that relied on a different port. Bruce Perens came on board in 1996, replacing Murdock and taking control of the project. He took what was being said on message boards, discussion groups and mailing lists and incorporated those comments into the project, creating specific guidelines for users. In 1998 two more versions of the project were released, known as Debian 2.0 and Debian 2.x. Linux came on board in 1999 and helped create Storm Linux and Corel Linux for use with Debian. Two new leaders took over the project and worked on Debian 3.0, which was released in 2002. The software remained the same until the last release of Debian 3.1 in 2005. Resources on this software include:
Those who made the switch to Debian did so because they claimed it was easier to use. Unlike other operating system packages, which come with dozens of different discs, this relies solely on five discs. Since the program is known as shareware, it’s also easy to find and install, as well as share with other users. The latest version remains the most popular version to date and is free of the bugs found on earlier versions.