# fli4l

> Linux distribution

**Wikidata**: [Q290794](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q290794)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fli4l)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/fli4l

## Summary
fli4l is a lightweight Linux distribution that functions as a flexible internet router. Originating in Germany, the open-source software is licensed under the GNU General Public License. It is designed to operate with low resource requirements, making it suitable for dedicated routing tasks on minimal hardware.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** fli4l is an instance of a Linux distribution and a lightweight Linux distribution.
- **Country of Origin:** Germany.
- **Inception:** April 2000 (specifically recorded as 2000-04-00).
- **License:** GNU General Public License.
- **Latest Stable Version:** 3.10.19 (released February 2, 2020).
- **Official Website:** http://www.fli4l.de/ (Available in English, French, and German).
- **Aliases:** flexible internet router for linux, floppy isdn for linux, flexible internet routeur pour linux, and floppy isdn pour linux.
- **Copyright Status:** Copyrighted.

## FAQs
### Q: What does the name fli4l stand for?
A: The name fli4l is an abbreviation for "flexible internet router for Linux." Historically, it also stood for "floppy isdn for Linux," reflecting its origins in ISDN-based routing on floppy disks.

### Q: Is fli4l free to use?
A: Yes, fli4l is released under the GNU General Public License, meaning it is free software that allows users to run, study, share, and modify it.

### Q: When was fli4l created?
A: The project began in Germany in April 2000.

## Why It Matters
fli4l holds significance in the realm of open-source networking as a specialized, lightweight solution for internet routing. By utilizing a Linux kernel stripped down to essentials, it addresses the specific need for converting standard computer hardware into robust, dedicated routers without the overhead of a full general-purpose operating system. The project's longevity—spanning from its inception in 2000 to its stable release in 2020—demonstrates sustained utility and community support. Its multilingual documentation (English, French, German) further broadens its accessibility to system administrators across Europe and beyond. As a "lightweight" distribution, it extends the lifecycle of older hardware, offering a practical alternative to proprietary routing appliances.

## Notable For
- **Lightweight Architecture:** Specifically categorized as a lightweight Linux distribution with low resource requirements.
- **Routing Specialization:** Distinct from general-purpose distributions, it is explicitly tailored to function as a flexible internet router.
- **Multilingual Support:** Maintains a significant international presence with an official website and documentation available in three languages (German, English, French).
- **Historical Relevance:** Has been active since early 2000, evolving from "floppy isdn" technology to modern routing solutions.

## Body
### Identity and Classification
fli4l is a Linux distribution based on the Linux kernel. It is distinctively classified as a "lightweight Linux distribution," defined by its low resource requirements and its role as an operating system specialized for routing tasks. The software is an instance of a "flexible internet router," though it retains aliases hearkening back to its roots as a "floppy isdn" solution.

### Development and Licensing
The project was officially established in Germany in April 2000. It operates under the GNU General Public License (GPL), ensuring that the software remains free and open-source. Despite being open-source, the project maintains a copyrighted status. The most recent recorded stable version is 3.10.19, which was released on February 2, 2020.

### Availability and Resources
fli4l is accessible via its official website, `http://www.fli4l.de/`. The project caters to a diverse user base by providing content in English, French, and German. The distribution maintains a digital footprint across various platforms, including Wikipedia (available in languages such as German, English, French, Italian, and Norwegian) and Wikimedia Commons.

## References

1. [Sortie de la version stable 3.10.19 pour fli4l](http://www.fli4l.de/fr/fli4l/actualite/article/633/aktuell.html)
2. [Release der stabilen fli4l Version 3.10.19](https://www.fli4l.de/home/news/artikel/633/aktuell.html)