What is FreeBSD? Who it is for
FreeBSD is a member of the BSD family of Unix-like systems rather than a Linux distribution. It uses none by default as its desktop and pkg for software, and it follows numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
FreeBSD at a glance
- Foundation: a member of the BSD family of Unix-like systems rather than a Linux distribution
- Desktop: none by default
- Software tools: pkg
- Release style: numbered releases on a fixed schedule
- Installer: the bsdinstall text installer
Who FreeBSD suits
FreeBSD suits people running servers, firewalls or storage who like ZFS and a complete, unified base system.
Strengths
- A strong fit for servers and always-on machines, thanks to long support and predictable updates.
- Fine control over how the system is built and what it contains.
- Changes arrive slowly and are tested first, so the system rarely surprises you.
Things to consider
- Software versions are conservative, so brand-new desktop applications may arrive later.
- It expects you to read documentation and solve problems yourself, so it is not the best first Linux system.
- Stability means some software is not the very newest version.
- As a rough guide, about 1 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Try FreeBSD from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the FreeBSD bootable USB drive, then follow our install guide when you are ready. New to this? Read how to try Linux without installing it and how to boot from a USB drive.
Compare FreeBSD
Installing software on FreeBSD
FreeBSD uses pkg. These commands search for a program and install it (replace name with the program):
pkg search name pkg install name
Most desktop systems also have a graphical software store. See how to install software on Linux. Run the install command as root on this system.
Frequently asked questions
Is FreeBSD good for beginners?
It can be used by beginners, but FreeBSD is aimed more at people running servers, firewalls or storage who like ZFS and a complete, unified base system. If you are brand new, a beginner-friendly distribution such as Linux Mint or Ubuntu is usually an easier first step.
What desktop does FreeBSD use?
FreeBSD uses none by default. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does FreeBSD need?
As a rough guide, about 1 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is FreeBSD based on another distribution?
FreeBSD is a member of the BSD family of Unix-like systems rather than a Linux distribution.
How often is FreeBSD updated?
FreeBSD follows numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
How can I try FreeBSD without installing it?
Write it to a USB drive, restart, choose the drive from the boot menu and pick the live or try option. Nothing on your internal disk changes unless you choose to install.