Variety in the Linux universe represents one of its most splendid aspects, attracting a cohort of distro explorers in a perpetual quest for the next Linux variant to test and evaluate against their requisites.

Just when you assumed you had sampled all possibilities, a new contender emerged, and we were instantly intrigued. Introducing Oreon Linux.

Oreon Linux: Core Features

Historically, Enterprise Linux has been tailored mostly for corporate users and individuals seeking a robust, secure, and enduring operating system for server applications.

It has not typically been aimed at desktop users as its primary focus. However, a team of developers spotted this opening as a chance for innovation.

Oreon is an emerging distribution based on AlmaLinux, launched in early 2024. As a member of the RHEL family, it aims to revolutionize Enterprise Linux by incorporating desktop-oriented features commonly found in cutting-edge distributions, departing from the conservative approach generally associated with Enterprise environments.

“Oreon isn’t merely a customized replica of AlmaLinux. It strives to enhance the Enterprise Linux realm by adapting it to be more suitable for home and desktop purposes. This is accomplished through our development team and the manner in which we integrate packages and dependencies that were previously absent in RHEL-based OSes into Oreon. In simpler terms, Oreon elevates the Enterprise Linux domain by enhancing compatibility and usability for desktop scenarios.”

Desktop Friendliness

Right out of the box, the distribution presents a visually enticing and user-friendly interface that streamlines the user journey.

The desktop appearance of Oreon Lime (R2) edition is striking. However, it’s essential to note that it essentially revamps the familiar GNOME desktop with additional extensions like Dash to Panel, Arc Menu, Blur my Shell, and more.

Gaming Performance

In contrast to other Enterprise Linux distributions, Oreon’s developers have approached it with gamers in mind by effectively incorporating essential packages and dependencies for full-game support.

The distribution accommodates various game launchers such as Lutris, Steam, and Bottles. Although compatibility sometimes necessitates WINE or Proton, the system ensures a gratifying gaming experience.

Operational Efficiency and Interoperability

Oreon is fine-tuned for operational efficiency, making it suitable even for dated hardware, which can breathe new life into aging systems.

The continual development and assimilation of new packages strive to deliver compatibility unmatched by other Enterprise Linux distributions, addressing common issues such as support for WINE 32-bit and 64-bit applications.

Reliability and Safety

Naturally, reliability stands as a distinguishing trait of every distribution in the RHEL family, and Oreon is no exception. Users can anticipate three years of feature enhancements and a notable eight years of security updates and bug fixes, aligning with AlmaLinux’s support schedule.

This extensive support is a noteworthy advantage for individuals seeking a trustworthy desktop platform in the long haul.

Applications & Utility Kits

In terms of applications, the default set comprises a modest selection including Firefox 115.7 ESR, LibreOffice 7.1.8, GNOME Videos, and more. Yes, these versions are somewhat dated, a common trait among Enterprise Linux distributions.

The inclusion of Flatpak support, now standard in the Linux ecosystem, is out-of-the-box. An intriguing choice is the inclusion of the Virtual Machine Manager application by default, offering a graphical interface for managing KVM virtual machines.

I was somewhat surprised to find Docker preinstalled. While it’s a valuable tool for developers and enthusiasts of self-hosting, its necessity for the average desktop user is unclear. Oddly enough, despite being installed, it wasn’t activated by default.

In terms of repositories, Oreon comes with EPEL and RPM Fusion pre-enabled, along with a few of its own repositories, offering a comprehensive array of available software.

Final Thoughts

Operating under full disclosure – I am devoted to rolling releases; furnish me with Arch, Void, Tumbleweed, you name it, and I’ll be overjoyed. Therefore, during my exploration of Oreon Linux, the sensation of using older software lingered, which isn’t detrimental considering its foundational basis.

The Linux kernel version, 5.14.0-427.28.1.el9_4.x86_64, mirrors that of AlmaLinux. Hence, if you opt for Oreon as your daily OS and possess relatively new hardware, you might encounter some challenges with compatibility.

Hence, the fundamental query revolves around Oreon successfully democratizing Enterprise Linux for everyday desktop users. To a certain degree, it does. Based on my findings, much of what Oreon offers could be replicated with other RHEL-based distributions. Nevertheless, the standout feature lies in the proprietary packages available in Oreon’s repositories, a distinct element absent from other Enterprise Linux offerings.

Do we advocate its utilization? Undoubtedly, for distro explorers – it’s a must. Enthusiasts of RHEL, Alma, and Rocky should also contemplate giving it a go. However, if you prioritize the most cutting-edge and innovative platforms, Oreon may not align with your preferences.

Regardless, the distribution represents a breath of fresh air and a unique interpretation of Enterprise Linux, enriching the entire open-source community. For additional details, visit the official Oreon Linux website.