How is Solaris different from any Linux distro?

Question

Hey guys.. I don't really know much of either Linux, or Solaris.. Which one is better and easier to use? Does any of them require programming skills? or r they GUI OS? Thanks!

Answer 1

Solaris uses the old SunOS kernel which was designed around the server model. This means the kernel is designed to run even if there has been a catastrophic failure on the system (system up time is the number one priority). The only time I've seen a Solaris system reboot was when there was a kernel panic (Unix version of a BSOD but they are extremely rare and always involve really stupid human error to occur). While the Linux kernel is good you still need to reboot if there has been a major upgrade to the kernel (which happens at least once a year). So besides the differences in the kernel both operating systems can use the same frontend (or windows manager (examples: Gnome, KDE, XFCE, PLG, etc)) and run the same programs. Solaris does handle Java better then Linux (due to the fact that Solaris was created by Sun the creators of Java) and if you want to program for Solaris you should probably learn Java. Otherwise Python, Ruby, C, C++, Java, and/or Perl are all programming languages that can be used to create programs on either system.

Answer 2

To answer the "Which one is easier" question, most distributions of Linux are BY FAR, as Solaris is very picky when you're first installing and configuring it.



As far as Solaris goes, it is a true UNIX distribution, similar to but not Linux. Solaris is based on BSD. It's meant primarily for hardcore servers, supercomputers, and CAD/CAM workstations; it's also found use in graphics work. Solaris, like Linux and other forms of UNIX, can require some programming and command prompt skill, as you'll compile programs for it from time to time. However, it does have a GUI available, which does make it a suitable desktop productivity OS, albeit limited by available programs.



There are three versions of Solaris available for free on Sun's website - Solaris 9, Solaris 10, and OpenSolaris. There's really not much difference between the three versions. If you want the true Solaris environment and maximum compatibility with your hardware, I'd recommend Solaris 10. However, if open source is more important to you, OpenSolaris is the better choice.



One other thing that I can highly, highly recommend is that you want to learn the OS and have reference material (e.i. Google and the rest of the internet) close at hand, I'd recommend installing Solaris in a virtual machine instead of just directly on your hardware; as you get more familiar with the OS, you can install it directly on your machine. Sun is also nice enough to provide free training via online slide shows, so you can take a guided tour of how the OS works.

Answer 3

Solaris is Unix based While Linux is a seperate code base, inspired by the original Unix code. If you're wanting to get your feet wet, try Ubuntu first, you've got great support at the forums when you need help. After you've tried that and got yourself a good setup, if you want to get more technical go over to Debian, it's similar to Ubuntu but less of the setting up is done for you. If you're wanting a free operating system that won't take a few days reading through a manual to master though, then I'd say Ubuntu is the first thing you should try.

Answer 4

Most don't require any programming. Solaris is slow and "bloated" though, I wouldn't recommend it. You could always try out Ubuntu or my Ubuntu-based operating system: ViperOS, available here http://viperamped.com/viewpage.php?page_id=10



Message me if you have any questions.

Answer 5

Hello,





Go 2 http://distrowatch.com/



rtfm