softwares and linux versions

newby101 · 11-17-2003, 08:27 PM

Hello Experts,

I'm new to the linux world and I have a question. If this question has been asked before, please point me to the thread.

Question:

With all the linux versions from all the different vendors, how compactible are they when it comes to softwares? Example, will a program from Red Hat Linux work in Mandrake Linux, Debian Linux, etc?

Your comments will be appreciated.

leonscape · 11-17-2003, 08:30 PM

Usually Yes, if your taking them as source and compiling. Binary Packages tend not to work as well for different versions. This is because some distros insist on diffrening from the LSB.

teval · 11-17-2003, 08:35 PM

Technically, yes fully.
Really.. kinda. There are differences as to where files are placed.. albeit small differences. Generally you can use the same package, and see what happens if you're up to it and can't find one for your distro.

newby101 · 11-17-2003, 08:44 PM

Hmm...to make linux more user friendly, usefull and gain more audiences, everyone should follow the standard. Most people don't like complicated things.

Thanks for the info.

Long