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Kali Linux screenshot

Kali Linux

Kali Linux (formerly known as BackTrack) is a Debian-based distribution with a collection of security and forensics tools. It features timely security updates, support for the ARM architecture, a choice of four popular desktop environments, and seamless upgrades to newer versions.

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Gentoo Linux screenshot

Gentoo Linux

Gentoo Linux is a versatile and fast, completely free Linux distribution geared towards developers and network professionals. Unlike other distros, Gentoo Linux has an advanced package management system called Portage.

Technical Specs Comparison
Kali LinuxGentoo Linux
Debian (Testing)BaseIndependent
apt / debPackage Managerportage / src
systemdInit SystemOpenRC
Rolling ReleaseRelease ModelRolling Release
2026.1Latest Version12.1
IntermediateDifficultyAdvanced
March 24, 2026Release DateMay 28, 2016
ARM64x86_64alphaarmhppai686MIPSPowerPCppc64sparc64x86-64-v3
Architecture
ARM64x86_64alphaarmhppai686MIPSPowerPCppc64sparc64x86-64-v3
GNOMEKDE PlasmaXfceAwesomeBlackboxEnlightenmentFluxboxIceWMLXDEMATESwayOpenboxWMaker
Desktops
GNOMEKDE PlasmaXfceAwesomeBlackboxEnlightenmentFluxboxIceWMLXDEMATESwayOpenboxWMaker