FreeBSD vs. Slackware: Which super stable OS is right for you?

Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.

ZDNET key takeaways

• FreeBSD and Slackware are both outstanding OSes.
• FreeBSD is more UNIX-like, while Slackware is more Linux-like.
• One is geared for servers, while the other is a bit more general.

FreeBSD and Slackware. If you've been following Linux for years, then you are aware of both operating systems. But did you know that only one of those OSes is based on Linux?

While Slackware is very much rooted in Linux, FreeBSD is more about UNIX.

Let's dive in and find out which of these operating systems might be your next.

FreeBSD

You might think FreeBSD is yet another take on Linux, but in that assumption, you'd be wrong. Where Linux takes a modular approach, FreeBSD is a complete and integrated operating system. What that means is that the entire base system (kernel, userland utilities, libraries, and documentation) is developed together as a single, cohesive project by the FreeBSD team.

Also: The best Linux laptops right now

With Linux, the kernel is developed by one team, userland utilities are developed by other teams, libraries are developed by yet another, and documentation is created and maintained by another. FreeBSD, on the other hand, does all of that via the same team. What this does is create a highly stable, unified design that is rock-solid and reliable in ways most other operating systems can't touch.

The first version of FreeBSD was released in 1993, which means it has had a long time to mature. 

Because FreeBSD leans more towards UNIX, you probably assume that it's far above your skill set. If you've never used Linux, that's a fair assumption. If you've used Linux for several years, the switch to FreeBSD is mostly a matter of understanding a different filesystem structure and package manager. If you can grasp those two things, you're on your way to understanding FreeBSD.

But why would you bother?

As I mentioned, FreeBSD is incredibly stable. I would go so far as to say that it's the most stable operating system available. If you don't know, UNIX was created with a strong emphasis on simplicity and modularity. You have to understand that, at that time (the '60s), operating systems were incredibly challenging. When UNIX came into being, it made it possible for far more people to begin working with an OS that could serve many purposes.

Because FreeBSD is a descendant of the original AT&T UNIX code, you can bet it inherited the stability of its predecessor.

Also: Garuda KDE Dr460nized might be the coolest-looking Linux distro available

As for the comparison between Linux and FreeBSD, consider these points:

• Linux package managers vary by distribution, whereas FreeBSD uses pkg and the Ports Collection, separating base system (/usr/bin) from third-party software (/usr/local/). 
• FreeBSD uses the ZFS file system, whereas Linux offers several options.
• FreeBSD includes built-in lightweight virtualization/containerization.
• Linux offers more complex routing (multiple tables/policy-based), while FreeBSD uses a simpler, firewall-tagged routing.
• FreeBSD includes built-in security auditing, whereas Linux requires separate tools. 
• Linux is dominant on desktops, mobile (Android), cloud, embedded, and supercomputers, while FreeBSD is heavily invested in servers, NAS, and embedded devices.
• Linux offers a much more diverse ecosystem, simple to complex distributions, and excellent gaming support, while FreeBSD is all about being cohesive and stable with easier long-term upgrades.

FreeBSD also features:

• Native support for an advanced, fault-tolerant ZFS file system with pooled storage, snapshots, and data integrity.
• Lightweight containerization for running isolated services to improve security and resource management beyond the traditional chroot found in Linux.
• A built-in, efficient type-2 hypervisor for virtualization.
• Highly optimized TCP/IP stack, robust tools, and support for modern protocols, perfect for network-intensive applications.
• ACLs, MAC frameworks (TrustedBSD), auditing, and encryption (GELI).

Who is FreeBSD for?

First, FreeBSD is not for those who've only ever used the Windows operating system. Even those with just a smidge of Linux experience would struggle with FreeBSD. In other words, if you know Linux but are looking for an OS that offers even more stability and security, FreeBSD is the way to go. 

As well, if you're looking for an OS to run your servers, FreeBSD is hard to beat.

Slackware

Slackware is the oldest Linux distribution available. Created by Patrick Volkerding in 1993, Slackware is known for its simplicity, stability, and traditional Unix-like design. Slackware offers tons of customization options and maximum user control. With this Linux distribution, you get a minimal base with the essential packages and support for several popular desktop environments.

Also: 8 ways I quickly leveled up my Linux skills - and you can too

Slackware also requires users to understand how to work an ncurses-based installation and a willingness to do more work for setup.

What's really great about Slackware is that you get a Linux distribution stripped of any possible bloat that will perform remarkably fast and well.

Slackware is traditionally used for servers, development, and personal desktops (in that order), and is typically favored by advanced users who want full control and understanding of their operating systems.

In other words, Slackware isn't for newbies.

Like FreeBSD, Slackware does not have a GUI installer, so it's going to be more challenging than your typical Linux OS. Does that mean you shouldn't consider Slackware as a desktop OS? Not necessarily. If you have a solid understanding of Linux, you could opt to go the Slackware route for your desktop, but I would recommend this take on Linux for servers over desktops. In that regard, Slackware and FreeBSD are similar.

Also: 6 reasons why I've stuck with Ubuntu-based Linux distros for the last 20 years

Slackware also:

• Features an easy-to-use, text-based OS installer.
• Lacks automatic dependency resolution, which means users are required to manage dependencies. For that reason, you must have a strong understanding of Linux.
• Uses SlackBuild scripts for compiling software from source.
• Includes C/C++ compilers, Perl, and Python.
• Supports KDE, Xfce, and others (although you have to install a DE manually, as it boots to a command-line by default).
• Comes with web (Apache), FTP, mail (Sendmail/Postfix), and news servers.
• Offers extensive networking utilities.
• Runs well on older hardware because of its minimal footprint.
• Excellent for servers and production workstations.
• Challenges users with manual configuration.
• Has a highly devoted and enthusiastic user community.

Is Slackware for you?

Simply put, if you have a solid understanding of Linux and want to try something a bit different (that also happens to be incredibly solid), Slackware could be right for you. If, on the other hand, you are new to Linux, I would suggest you avoid Slackware.

Which is the right OS for you?

Although these two operating systems have disparate beginnings, both are best suited for server environments. That doesn't mean you can't use them for the desktop, but if that's your goal, then Slackware is what you want. 

Also: The 6 Linux distros I recommend most for gaming in 2025 - including my favorite

If you want the most UNIX-like OS, without actually using UNIX, FreeBSD is the way to go.