Leaner: RPath Linux 2
RPath has released version 2 of its Linux distribution which is mainly designed for producing customized software appliances.
The kernel (version 2.6.24.7) is about one third smaller than its predecessor, and the base system is just half the size. This is very much in line with the manufacturer's strategy, and one that both Ubuntu and Suse follow with operating system variants under the motto of "Just enough Operating System (JeOS)": The Linux distribution becomes a basic platform on which software vendors can distribute bootable live or appliance versions of their applications. Examples of appliances based on Rpath include Sugar CRM, the Joomla CMS, and Mediawiki.
RPath uses its own Conary package management system, with Syslinux providing a boot loader. A graphical boot splash is displayed when you fire up the system; the splash can easily be modified to reflect your own needs. Software vendors interested in doing so can call in the RBuilder online service to have appliances built for them.
The image files for the current Rpath version 2 are also available on the Rbuilder system here and include virtual system images in Vmware format as well as installable ISOs.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.