How are hundreds of Linux distros maintained if anyone could download them for free?

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I have started using Linux recently and have been enjoying the open-source nature of it. I was browsing a website called [distrowatch.com](http://distrowatch.com) that has hundreds of Linux distros. All of them are free to use (ubuntu, debian, Kali, Quebes, Tails, etc.) How are they maintained if it doesn’t cost anything to download and install them?

Thank you.

In: Technology

13 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

In principle, any given Linux distro is a passion project run by volunteers. For smaller ones, there’s typically no formal structure to guarantee regular updates or continuing support. Larger distros like Ubuntu or Debian are supported by small money making operations or charities. Canonical Ltd. makes money selling Ubuntu support services and merch, then funnels that money back into the project. Software in the Public Interest is a nonprofit that supports Debian among other open source projects.

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