# Amazon Linux

> operating system from Amazon

**Wikidata**: [Q68223191](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q68223191)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/amazon-linux

## Summary
Amazon Linux is a Linux-based operating system developed by Amazon Web Services (AWS) as a custom distribution optimized for cloud computing environments. It is designed to provide stability, security, and compatibility with AWS services, serving as the foundation for many Amazon EC2 instances.

## Key Facts
- **Developer**: Amazon (inception: 1994-07-05)
- **Instance of**: Operating system (software that manages computer hardware resources)
- **Based on**: Fedora Linux (inception: 2002)
- **Major versions**: Amazon Linux 1 (AL1), Amazon Linux 2 (AL2, released 2017-12-13), Amazon Linux 2023 (AL2023, released 2023-03-15)
- **Publication date**: 2011
- **Website**: [https://aws.amazon.com/linux/amazon-linux-2023/](https://aws.amazon.com/linux/amazon-linux-2023/)
- **Source code repositories**: [https://github.com/amazonlinux/amazon-linux-2022](https://github.com/amazonlinux/amazon-linux-2022), [https://github.com/amazonlinux/amazon-linux-2023](https://github.com/amazonlinux/amazon-linux-2023)

## FAQs
### Q: What is Amazon Linux used for?
A: Amazon Linux is primarily used as the operating system for Amazon EC2 instances, providing a stable and secure environment optimized for cloud computing.

### Q: How does Amazon Linux differ from other Linux distributions?
A: Amazon Linux is a custom distribution developed by Amazon, optimized for AWS services and designed to work seamlessly with Amazon’s cloud infrastructure.

### Q: What are the major versions of Amazon Linux?
A: The major versions include Amazon Linux 1 (AL1), Amazon Linux 2 (AL2, released in 2017), and Amazon Linux 2023 (AL2023, released in 2023).

### Q: Is Amazon Linux open-source?
A: Yes, Amazon Linux is open-source, with its source code available on GitHub.

### Q: Who developed Amazon Linux?
A: Amazon Linux was developed by Amazon Web Services (AWS).

## Why It Matters
Amazon Linux plays a crucial role in the cloud computing ecosystem by providing a stable and secure operating system tailored for AWS services. Its development by Amazon ensures tight integration with AWS infrastructure, making it a preferred choice for developers and enterprises leveraging Amazon’s cloud services. By optimizing performance and security, Amazon Linux enhances the reliability of cloud-based applications and services. Its open-source nature also fosters community contributions and customization, further strengthening its position in the cloud computing market.

## Notable For
- **AWS Integration**: Amazon Linux is deeply integrated with AWS services, providing seamless performance and security for EC2 instances.
- **Security and Stability**: Designed for cloud environments, it offers enhanced security and stability features tailored to AWS infrastructure.
- **Open-Source**: Available on GitHub, allowing for community contributions and customization.
- **Multiple Versions**: Offers major versions (AL1, AL2, AL2023) with improvements in performance, security, and compatibility.
- **Optimized for Cloud**: Specifically optimized for Amazon’s cloud services, ensuring compatibility and efficiency.

## Body
### Overview
Amazon Linux is a Linux-based operating system developed by Amazon Web Services (AWS) as a custom distribution optimized for cloud computing environments. It serves as the foundation for many Amazon EC2 instances, providing stability, security, and compatibility with AWS services.

### Development and Versions
Amazon Linux was first released in 2011, with major versions including:
- **Amazon Linux 1 (AL1)**: The initial release, based on Fedora Linux.
- **Amazon Linux 2 (AL2)**: Released on December 13, 2017, with improvements in performance, security, and compatibility.
- **Amazon Linux 2023 (AL2023)**: Released on March 15, 2023, featuring further enhancements and optimizations.

### Technical Details
- **Based on**: Fedora Linux, an open-source Linux distribution.
- **Source Code**: Available on GitHub, including repositories for [Amazon Linux 2022](https://github.com/amazonlinux/amazon-linux-2022) and [Amazon Linux 2023](https://github.com/amazonlinux/amazon-linux-2023).
- **Website**: Official documentation and resources are available at [https://aws.amazon.com/linux/amazon-linux-2023/](https://aws.amazon.com/linux/amazon-linux-2023/).

### Significance
Amazon Linux is notable for its tight integration with AWS services, ensuring optimal performance and security for cloud-based applications. Its open-source nature allows for community contributions and customization, making it a versatile choice for developers and enterprises. The multiple versions reflect Amazon’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation to evolving cloud computing needs.

## References

1. [Source](https://github.com/amazonlinux/amazon-linux-2022)
2. [Introducing Amazon Linux 2. 2017](https://aws.amazon.com/about-aws/whats-new/2017/12/introducing-amazon-linux-2/)
3. [Announcing Amazon Linux 2023. 2023](https://aws.amazon.com/about-aws/whats-new/2023/03/amazon-linux-2023/)
4. [Source](https://api.github.com/repos/amazonlinux/amazon-linux-2022)