More than Just Open Source: A Gentle Introduction to Fedora

When you hear the word, Fedora, the first thing that might come to your mind is the snazzy cowboy hat seen in old movies. You know, the ones that make you feel like Clint Eastwood?

But, that is not what this article is about, Here Fedora refers to a community-driven Linux distribution, although it’s a kicker that the company behind Fedora is called Red Hat. Coincidence? I think not!

Now, let's break it down: Fedora isn't just a hat or a project; it is a community made up of developers and users who work together to improve Fedora Linux and make it available for anyone to use and copy.

To help you understand Fedora, this article will cover the basic things you should know about Fedora, Fedora Linux, and the Fedora Community.

For more in-depth reading about all things Fedora, Visit the Fedora Docs.

What is the Fedora project?

The Fedora Project is an inclusive community sponsored by Red Hat, that collaborates to develop, enhance, distribute, and support free and open-source software such as Fedora Linux.

The project was established in 2003 following Red Hat's decision to divide Red Hat Linux into two separate entities: Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) and a community-driven operating system known as Fedora.

The Fedora Project creates a space for developers and users to collaborate on open-source projects through their community.

Fun fact: Red Hat often sources software for Red Hat Enterprise Linux from Fedora. However, there are instances when software not found in Fedora is added directly to Red Hat Enterprise Linux to meet enterprise-level maintenance and security standards.

What does Fedora project do?

Developing Fedora Linux:

The main purpose of the Fedora project is to develop and maintain the Fedora Linux which is available in versions for desktops, servers, and special uses.

Supporting Open Source:

The Fedora Project actively supports open source and encourages innovation by promoting, sharing, and teamwork.

Building a Community:

The project brings people from all over the world together who are interested in open-source software.

It provides various ways for people to participate in the community such as forums, events, emails, and special interest groups.

These platforms help members effectively communicate, collaborate, and share knowledge.

Welcoming Contributions:

The project allows anyone to contribute. From coding, writing documentation, designing, or testing software, anyone can make an impact in the Fedora community.

What is Fedora Linux

Fedora Linux is a free operating system made by the Fedora Project. It uses the Linux kernel, which helps you use your computer.

Fedora's quick release cycle ensures that Fedora Linux stays updated with the newest software and technology. It is a great alternative to Windows and macOS.

Fedora Linux Editions

Fedora has different editions for different needs, making Fedora useful for lots of different users. Here are some of the main editions.

Fedora Workstation

This edition is for people who mainly use their computers for everyday things like browsing the web, watching videos, and doing office work. Its user interface looks nice thanks to the GNOME environment.

Fedora Server

This edition is best for users who need a reliable and flexible operating system for managing infrastructure and services.

Fedora Server can be used for different server tasks like web hosting, databases, and file storage.

Fedora IoT

Fedora IoT is a reliable system that offers the tools and libraries needed for developing Internet of Things (IoT) applications. It helps developers create smart and connected devices.

Fedora CoreOS

This edition has a basic operating system with essential Fedora packages. It comes with automatic updates, advanced container features, and strong security.

Fedora Cloud

Fedora Cloud is a basic operating system designed for cloud setups. It is lightweight and optimized for running cloud-based apps and services.

It lets users use a wide range of cloud technologies while staying flexible and secure in modern cloud environments.

Fedora Atomic Desktops

Fedora Silverblue

Based on Fedora Workstation, Fedora Silverblue has a desktop environment that cannot be changed making it more stable.

Its design is perfect for developing container-based software.

Fedora Sway Atomic

It gives a simple version of the Sway window manager, perfect for anyone who doesn't like using a mouse. It comes with basic apps for browsing, editing, and media.

Fedora Budgie Atomic

It is a safe and reliable way to use the Budgie desktop. Updates won't cause problems, and users can easily go back to the previous version if needed. It also keeps users apps separate for extra safety.

Fedora Kinoite

It offers the KDE Plasma desktop in a hassle-free package. Updates won't mess up a user's system, and they can manage their tools easily. Plus, it's all about users privacy and using open source technology.

Fedora Spins, Labs, and Alt Downloads

Besides the main Edition, Fedora also provides various spins, labs, and alternative downloads to meet specific needs and preferences.

Let's take a look at them.

Fedora Spins

Fedora Spins are custom versions of Fedora with various desktop options, giving users more choices.

Some popular spins are:

Fedora KDE Plasma Spin: Customizable with KDE Plasma desktop.
Fedora Xfce Spin: Lightweight version with Xfce desktop environment for low-resource systems.
Fedora LXQt Spin: Uses LXQt desktop environment, great for low-resource hardware.
Fedora MATE Spin: Offers a traditional interface with MATE desktop.
Fedora Cinnamon Spin: Features a modern UI with Cinnamon desktop.

Fedora Labs

For specialized uses like robotics, scientific computing, and security testing, Fedora Labs offers carefully selected sets of software packages and tools.

The Labs offer applications for Security, Science, and Robotics Development in a single package.

Alt Downloads

To give users even more customization choices and flexibility, Fedora also provides other downloads, such as specialized editions and extra software repositories.

What is the Fedora Community

Fedora is more than just open-source software. It is a community of diverse contributors from around the world who share a passion for open-source technology.

This community includes volunteers, Red Hat employees, and various organizations, including academic and cultural heritage organizations, universities, research institutions, university libraries, national libraries, and government agencies. They all work together to support and improve Fedora Linux.

The community hosts regular events and meetings to connect, share ideas, and helpful resources, and mentor newcomers. The Code of conduct upheld by the Fedora community creates a safe space for everyone.

The Four Foundations of Fedora

We can not talk about the Fedora community without mentioning the Four foundations Fedora was built. These foundations are Freedom, Friends, Features, and First.

Freedom

Fedora aims to make its software easy to share legally for everyone thus enhancing the Open Source ecosystem. The Fedora community focuses on promoting free alternatives to private software and content ensuring that Fedora remains completely free for anyone to use or copy.

First

Fedora is all about being innovative in the world of Open Source. So, they are often the first to try out new technologies like Wayland for display, PipeWire for audio, and Zram. This means users will notice a lot of changes when they switch to a new version of Fedora.

Fedora always looks forward to offering the latest free software through their quick updates.

Features

The Fedora community helps make the Fedora Linux powerful and flexible by creating technical features. They prioritize excellence in software and aim to empower more users with their contributions.

The feature development process in Fedora is open and transparent, and anyone can get involved.

Friends

The Fedora community accepts anyone regardless of their background and technical abilities, as long as they share their core values. In Fedora, anyone can make a difference.

The Fedora community is a place to find and build friendships that last. They also partner with Red Hat to improve open-source software further.

Why you should join the Fedora community

Making new friends who share your interests

In the Fedora community, you will meet like-minded individuals who will guide you in your open-source journey.

Learning something new

The Fedora community gives you a platform to learn and grow. You can explore different areas of technology and improve your skills with the help of others.

Making a difference

Contributing to the Fedora project allows you to make a real difference in the development and enhancement of Fedora Linux. Your contributions can shape the future of open-source software and help users worldwide.

Accessing Resources and Support

Another great thing about this community is that it offers plenty of resources like documentation and forums. Plus experienced members are there to support and guide newcomers.

Participating in Exciting Projects:

Many exciting projects in the Fedora community match your interests and skills whether you are into coding, writing, design, or advocacy.

Contribution Opportunities in the Fedora Project

You can use the What Can I Do for Fedora website to narrow down what you want to do for Fedora.

Here are some of the contribution opportunities available in Fedora in no particular order.

Documentation

Contributing to documentation ensures that Fedora is easier for everyone to use effectively.

To contribute write, review, and update documentation to make Fedora accessible to all users. This can include how-to guides, installation instructions, and feature overviews.

Bug Reporting and Quality Assurance

This contribution ensures Fedora's stability and usability, directly impacting the final product's quality.

To contribute to this, report bugs through Bugzilla, participate in test days, and help with bug triage and quality assurance activities.

Design and User Experience

This contribution ensures that Fedora's visual appeal user-friendliness, and user experience are enhanced.

To contribute, work on web design, graphics, UI/UX design, or create marketing materials.

Translation and Localization

Contributing to this ensures that non-English speakers use Fedora in their native language, expanding the community and improving accessibility.

To contribute, Join the Fedora localization (L10n) project to translate content and software into various languages.

Community Support and Advocacy

This contribution ensures that the Fedora community grows and new users are supported.

To contribute, Join outreach programs like Fedora Ambassadors or Fedora Join SIG to help new users and promote Fedora.

Software Development and Packaging

Contributing to this ensures that users have access to the latest software.

You can contribute by contributing code to Fedora or maintaining software packages.

How to join the Fedora community

Here is how to Join and start contributing to Fedora:

Visit the Fedora website

The first step to joining the Fedora community is to visit the official Fedora website to learn more about the project, its goals, and how you can contribute.

Choose an area of interest

Next, choose an area you want to contribute to based on your interest, expertise, and skill. You can contribute through coding, documentation, design, testing, or advocacy.

Still confused? You can use the What Can I Do for Fedora website to narrow down what you want to do for Fedora.

Participate in community discussions

To do this, Join mailing lists, forums, IRC channels, and social media groups related to Fedora. Participate in discussions, ask questions, and get to know other community members and ongoing projects.

Also, Participate in virtual or in-person events, workshops, and meetings organized by the Fedora community. These gatherings provide opportunities to meet fellow contributors, share ideas, and collaborate on projects.

Conclusion

More than just open-source software, Fedora has shown that when people with the same goals team up, they can change the game.

In Fedora, there's room for everyone to make a difference, whether you're a coding genius or just starting. So why sit on the sidelines when you can join the Fedora community and make a difference?