Side by side
Debian vs NetBSD
Both stand on server operating system. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted
Debian offers a large package collection, broad architecture support, and multiple installation and deployment options at no cost. Check hardware compatibility and select a release track that fits your need for stability or newer software.
Visit Debian Free plan Self-hosted
NetBSD offers broad hardware reach, package management, and an integrated Unix-like system. Choose a supported formal release when continued bug and security fixes are important.
Visit NetBSDThe facts
| Debian | NetBSD | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Self-hosted | Self-hosted |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | debian.org | netbsd.org |
| On server operating system | #5 of 29 | #9 of 29 |
Debian: what it does well
- Free to use and redistribute.
- Includes over 70,000 packages managed with APT.
- Offers stable, testing, and unstable releases.
- Free Long Term Support extends stable releases to at least five years.
- Official cloud images and virtual-machine use are available.
What to know first
- Some hardware may not work if makers do not publish specifications.
- Testing and unstable are separate release choices from stable.
NetBSD: what it does well
- Free and open source
- Runs on a wide range of hardware and architectures
- Includes pkgsrc, pkgin, and sysinst
- Includes storage, virtualization, and security features
- Documentation includes guides, manual pages, FAQs, and HOWTOs
What to know first
- Unsupported releases do not receive bug fixes
- NetBSD-current is less tested than formal releases
- The project advises against current on production systems
Alternatives to Debian Alternatives to NetBSD The whole list