What is Puppy Linux? Who it is for
Puppy Linux is built independently rather than on another distribution. It uses JWM or a similar light desktop as its desktop and the Puppy Package Manager for software, and it follows numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
Puppy Linux at a glance
- Foundation: built independently rather than on another distribution
- Desktop: JWM or a similar light desktop
- Software tools: the Puppy Package Manager
- Release style: numbered releases on a fixed schedule
- Installer: a frugal install or a save file
Who Puppy Linux suits
Puppy Linux suits people reviving old computers or wanting a portable system that runs from RAM.
Strengths
- Low memory and processor use, which helps older or modest computers feel quick.
- Small and quick to start, which makes it handy for repair, recovery and portable use.
Things to consider
- The lighter design means fewer built-in features and a plainer look than the big desktops.
- It is designed for portable or temporary use, so it suits a live USB drive better than a permanent daily system.
- As a rough guide, about 512 MB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Try Puppy Linux from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the Puppy Linux 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 Puppy Linux
- antiX vs Puppy Linux
- Lubuntu vs Puppy Linux
- Xubuntu vs Puppy Linux
- Linux Lite vs Puppy Linux
- MX Linux vs Puppy Linux
- Puppy Linux vs Bodhi Linux
Frequently asked questions
Is Puppy Linux good for beginners?
It can be used by beginners, but Puppy Linux is aimed more at people reviving old computers or wanting a portable system that runs from RAM. If you are brand new, a beginner-friendly distribution such as Linux Mint or Ubuntu is usually an easier first step.
What desktop does Puppy Linux use?
Puppy Linux uses JWM or a similar light desktop. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does Puppy Linux need?
As a rough guide, about 512 MB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is Puppy Linux based on another distribution?
Puppy Linux is built independently rather than on another distribution.
How often is Puppy Linux updated?
Puppy Linux follows numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
How can I try Puppy Linux 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.