# Refracta > Debian-based Linux distribution **Wikidata**: [Q118127724](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q118127724) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/refracta ## Summary Refracta is a Linux distribution based on Devuan, designed to provide a Debian-derived operating system without the systemd init system. It is distributed as a Live CD and is licensed under the GNU General Public License version 2.0. The distribution is distinct for its tight integration with the Devuan parent project. ## Key Facts * **Base Distribution:** Refracta is based on Devuan, a Linux distribution that forked from Debian to avoid using systemd. * **License:** The software is distributed under the **GNU General Public License, version 2.0**. * **Latest Version:** Version **11.1** was released on **September 14, 2022**. * **Format:** It is distributed as a **Live CD**, allowing users to run the operating system directly from a CD or USB without installation. * **Category:** It is an instance of a **Linux distribution** and a subclass of Linux and Devuan. * **Project Links:** The official website is `https://www.refracta.org/`, and the project is hosted on SourceForge. * **Package Management:** The distribution utilizes a package management system (identified as Q230724) consistent with its Devuan base. ## FAQs ### Q: What is Refracta based on? A: Refracta is based on Devuan, which is a Linux distribution derived from Debian. Its primary characteristic is that it operates without the systemd init system. ### Q: What license does Refracta use? A: Refracta is licensed under the GNU General Public License, version 2.0 (GPL-2.0). ### Q: How is Refracta distributed? A: It is distributed as a Live CD, which allows the operating system to be booted and run directly from removable media prior to installation. ## Why It Matters Refracta occupies a specific and significant niche within the Linux ecosystem by offering a robust alternative for users who require a Debian-style operating system but strictly oppose the use of systemd. As the Linux landscape shifted heavily toward systemd as a standard init system, a segment of the user base sought alternatives that maintained the traditional Unix philosophies of simplicity and modularity. Refracta addresses this by building upon Devuan, ensuring that users have access to a modern, stable operating system without the complexity or architectural disagreements associated with systemd. By providing a Live CD format, Refracta lowers the barrier to entry for testing this specific system architecture. It allows system administrators and enthusiasts to evaluate hardware compatibility and system behavior instantly. The project's adherence to the GNU General Public License version 2.0 ensures that it remains free and open-source, fostering transparency and community trust. Its presence on platforms like SourceForge and Distrowatch indicates an active, reachable project that serves the specific needs of the non-systemd community. ## Notable For * **Non-systemd Architecture:** Unlike standard Debian, it inherits Devuan's explicit exclusion of the systemd init system. * **Live CD Capability:** It offers a portable, bootable environment via Live CD distribution. * **Devuan Integration:** It is a direct subclass and derivative of Devuan, aligning strictly with its init choices. * **Open Source Licensing:** It is fully licensed under the GNU General Public License v2.0. * **Recent Updates:** The project has recent verifiable activity, with version 11.1 released in late 2022. ## Body ### Classification and Lineage Refracta is formally classified as a Linux distribution. It exists as a subclass of the Linux kernel family (which originated on September 17, 1991) and the Devuan operating system. While it is Debian-based, its dependency is specifically channeled through Devuan, which acts as the parent distribution providing a systemd-free environment. This lineage ensures that Refracta maintains compatibility with the vast Debian software repository while adhering to a different init architecture. ### Technical Specifications The distribution is built to run on the Linux kernel and is distributed in the **Live CD** format. This format is optimized for portability and hardware testing. The project uses a package management system (linked to the Devuan infrastructure) to handle software installation and updates. As of the latest records, the software is considered copyrighted but freely distributed under the **GNU General Public License, version 2.0**. ### Version History According to structured data records, a significant release of Refracta is **Version 11.1**. This version was released on **September 14, 2022**. The project maintains an official web presence at `refracta.org` and utilizes SourceForge for project hosting and distribution files. It is indexed on Distrowatch under the ID "refracta," indicating its recognition within the Linux distribution tracking community. ## References 1. [SourceForge](https://sourceforge.net/projects/refracta/) 2. [Source](https://get.refracta.org/files/stable/?2022) 3. [Source](https://get.refracta.org/)