How would I modify the core components of Linux (preferably debian or ubuntu) to make my own distro?
Saturday, June 27th, 2009 at
09:55
I want to make my own distribution, targeted at linux newbies making the transition to linux. I would prefer it to be based on debian or ubuntu due to the large amount of software for both, yet something my own. Like a custom boot screen, one centralized task bar, and if it is in any way possible, the last copy of beryl. I would need the iso file.
Tagged with: beryl • boot screen • custom boot • iso file • Linux • newbies • task bar • transition
Filed under: Debian
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You can create a Linux distribution (more or less) without knowing how to program. The biggest part is deciding what software you want to include. But knowing how to program is useful for writing tools/scripts for your distribution and fixing bugs. Try to learn some C and python/sh scripting for a start.
There are tools available to help you create a custom Ubuntu distribution:
http://reconstructor.aperantis.com/
http://www.remastersys.klikit-linux.com/
Check out the Linux Mint distribution:
http://www.linuxmint.com/
The main developer uses tools like the ones above to make Mint. But he also writes tools for it called “Mint tools” and even added a software portal and many desktop innovations to Mint.
Also look at this if you want to build a system from source code:
http://www.linuxfromscratch.org/
If you are asking a question of this level, it is highly unlikely that you have the skill to make a bug free distribution of a complex operating system.
This is possible of course. There are already many derivatives of both distributions, and of course Ubuntu is a derivative of Debian. Basically, you would get the source code of the packages you want, modify them, add any extra packages, and rebuild. Then you publish on an apt mirror.
However, this is making it sound much easier than it is. I agree that you should probably learn more about GNU/Linux before attempting this. Good luck.