Base Images
OpenFactory builds from public Linux distributions and curated templates. The exact version list changes as upstream projects release new images; the console and recipe templates are the source of truth for currently selectable bases.
Common Bases
| Family | Best For |
|---|---|
| Debian | Stable servers, appliances, CI images, and long-lived deployments |
| Ubuntu | Desktop, cloud, GPU, and developer workstation images |
| Fedora | Newer packages, developer tooling, SELinux-focused work, and container workflows |
| openSUSE | Rolling or enterprise-style Linux workflows |
| Proxmox | Homelab and virtualization host experiments where supported |
| Desktop distributions | Browser trials, training, migration testing, and user evaluation |
Choosing a Base
| Requirement | Recommended Starting Point |
|---|---|
| Production server | Debian or Ubuntu LTS |
| Development workstation | Ubuntu, Fedora, or a desktop-focused distribution |
| Container host | Debian, Ubuntu, or Fedora |
| Homelab virtualization | Proxmox where available |
| Network appliance image | Debian or Ubuntu with firewall, VPN, routing, and service configuration |
| Edge or embedded target | A minimal Debian or Ubuntu image sized for the hardware profile |
Examples
Use Debian as the base for a small production server with SSH, Docker, and automatic security updates.Build an Ubuntu desktop workstation with GPU drivers, VS Code, Docker, Python, and Node.js.Create a network appliance image with WireGuard, DHCP, DNS forwarding, firewall rules, and default tests.Compatibility Notes
- Package names vary across distributions.
- Desktop customization depends on the desktop environment available for that base.
- Security hardening and compliance checks vary by distribution family.
- Hardware-specific builds may require drivers, firmware, kernel modules, or a validated hardware profile.
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