Introduction

ALT Linux is a versatile and robust family of Linux distributions developed with particular emphasis on localization, customization, and broad applicability. Originally conceived in Russia, ALT Linux has evolved into a platform catering to a range of environments—from individual desktops to large-scale enterprise and public sector deployments. This article explores what ALT Linux is, how it works, which audiences it targets, and curiosities that make ALT Linux unique in the open-source ecosystem.

What is ALT Linux?

ALT Linux is a set of GNU/Linux distributions based on the Linux kernel and managed by the ALT Linux Team. It offers a variety of editions designed for different use cases, such as desktop computing, educational settings, multimedia production, and server infrastructures. Below are key aspects that define ALT Linux.

History and Origins

ALT Linux traces its roots back to 2001, when developers from the Russian Academy of Sciences decided to create a localized Linux distribution tailored to Russian language users and educational institutions. Over the years, ALT Linux has grown into:

• A community-driven project: Contributions from volunteers, educational organizations, and corporate partners shape its development.
• Commercial support: ALT Linux Team provides paid support and customization services for enterprises and government agencies.
• Open-source commitment: All components are released under GPL and other open-source licenses, fostering transparency and security.

Main Features

• Multiple editions: Desktop, Simply, School, Server, and specialized builds for thin clients and multimedia.
• Localization: Full support for Russian, English, and other regional languages, including keyboard layouts and documentation.
• Package management: RPM format combined with APT tools for dependency resolution and easy updates.
• Security enhancements: SELinux integration, mandatory access controls, and regular security audits.
• Customization: Tools for building custom ISO images and pre-configured environments.

How ALT Linux Works

At its core, ALT Linux operates like most Linux distributions: a Linux kernel provides the foundation, GNU utilities offer powerful command-line tools, and a diverse ecosystem of software packages ensures flexibility. However, ALT Linux distinguishes itself by its integration of tools and approaches tailored for its target audiences.

Kernel and Base System

ALT Linux uses a monolithic Linux kernel, typically a stable long-term release. The kernel is configured to support a wide range of hardware, with additional patches for performance and security. Key components include:

• Modular kernel builds: Custom kernels optimized for specific editions (e.g., a real-time kernel for multimedia).
• Init systems: System V and systemd support, allowing administrators to choose based on familiarity and requirements.
• Core utilities: GNU coreutils, BusyBox (for thin clients), and BusyBox-based rescue environments.

Package Management

ALT Linux employs the Red Hat Package Manager (RPM) format, enhanced with advanced APT tooling for dependency resolution and repository management.

rpm Package Format

• Binary RPMs: Precompiled packages for easy installation on various architectures (x86_64, ARM, and more).
• Source RPMs: Allow developers to rebuild packages with custom patches or optimizations.

APT and Synaptic

• APT front-end: Enables commands such as apt-get and apt-cache for package operations.
• Synaptic: A graphical package manager for intuitive browsing, installing, and removing software.
• Locale-aware repositories: Mirrors distributed worldwide, with automatic selection based on geographic proximity.

Target Audience and Orientation

ALT Linux caters to diverse user segments by offering specialized editions and support structures. The following sections outline primary orientations.

Educational Sector

ALT Linux School editions prioritize ease of deployment and administration in classrooms and computer labs:

• Pre-installed educational software: Electronic textbooks, interactive whiteboards, coding environments.
• Centralized management: Tools to build master images and deploy them over LAN using PXE boot.
• Secure user accounts: Restrictions on software installation and internet access for students.

Government and Public Sector

Public institutions benefit from ALT Linux’s emphasis on sovereignty, localization, and security:

• Data protection: Full disk encryption options and SELinux policies compliant with national standards.
• Interoperability: Support for open document formats and government information systems.
• Long-term support: Extended maintenance windows with backported security fixes.

Home and Enterprise

For individual and corporate users, ALT Linux offers:

• Desktop editions: Featuring GNOME, KDE, XFCE, or LXQt, with multimedia codecs pre-installed.
• Server editions: Lightweight, headless builds for web, file, and database servers.
• Virtualization support: KVM, Xen, and container platforms like LXC or Docker.

Key Components and Tools

ALT Linux ships with a suite of proprietary and open-source tools to simplify administration, customization, and user experience.

ALT Repository

The ALT Linux repository is segmented into branches:

Configurator Tools

• DrakX tools: A set of graphical and command-line utilities for network, users, and services configuration.
• ALT Remaster: Allows users to build custom ISO images, embedding desired packages and settings.
• ALT Installer: A text-based, menu-driven installer supporting LVM, RAID, and full disk encryption.

Desktop Environments

ALT Linux supports a range of desktop environments, each tailored for performance and usability:

• GNOME: For modern, integrated desktops with productivity tools.
• KDE Plasma: Highly customizable interface for power users.
• XFCE / LXQt: Lightweight options for older hardware or minimal resource usage.

Comparison with Other Distributions

While many Linux distributions share common components, ALT Linux’s unique blend of localization, tools, and support sets it apart. The table below highlights key differences versus two well-known distributions.

Curiosities and Lesser-Known Facts

Beyond its technical merits, ALT Linux boasts intriguing details that enrich its story.

Localizations and Language Support

ALT Linux developers emphasize multilingual user experiences. In addition to Russian and English, community volunteers maintain translations for:

• Bash completion scripts
• Installer messages
• Desktop environment menus and tooltips

This ensures non-English speakers enjoy full interface consistency.

Community and Development Model

ALT Linux employs an open development model:

• Public Git repositories: Source code and build scripts hosted on ALT’s infrastructure.
• Mailing lists and forums: Active discussions on packaging, feature requests, and bug fixes.
• Regular sprints: Code sprints and hackfests bring contributors together both physically and virtually.

Unlike some distributions, ALT Linux merges community and commercial interests, allowing for sponsored feature development.

Notable Deployments

Several large-scale implementations highlight ALT Linux’s adaptability:

• National education networks in Russia and Central Asia.
• Government offices requiring localized, secure operating systems.
• Research labs deploying custom scientific computing environments.

These deployments often leverage ALT Linux’s remastering tools and centralized management capabilities.

Conclusion

ALT Linux stands out as a versatile, localized, and community-oriented Linux distribution. With its RPM APT package management, comprehensive language support, and a range of edition options, it serves use cases from home desktops to government infrastructures. The combination of open-source principles and commercial support ensures both innovation and reliability. Whether you are building an educational lab, a corporate server farm, or a personal workstation, ALT Linux offers a flexible foundation equipped with the tools to customize and secure your environment.

References

• ALT Linux Official Website
• ALT Linux on Wikipedia
• ALT Linux Repositories