# Slax

> Linux distribution

**Wikidata**: [Q337503](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q337503)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slax)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/slax

## Summary
Slax is a lightweight Linux distribution based on Slackware, designed for low-resource environments. It is known for its portability, running from USB drives or CD-ROMs, and includes tools for system recovery, penetration testing, and general computing.

## Key Facts
- **Based on Slackware**: Slax is derived from the Slackware Linux distribution.
- **Lightweight**: Designed for low-resource systems, making it suitable for older hardware.
- **Portable**: Can be run from USB drives or CD-ROMs, enabling bootable live sessions.
- **Multiple Versions**: Released versions include 7.0.8 (2013), 9.6.4 (2018), 11.2.1 (2022), and 15.0.4 (2023).
- **GNU GPL License**: Distributed under the GNU General Public License.
- **Aliases**: Also known as Slackware-Live-CD, FanX, and SLAX.
- **Derivative Work**: Includes Wifislax, a specialized version for Wi-Fi penetration testing.
- **GUI Framework**: Uses Fluxbox as its default window manager.
- **Website**: Official site is [slax.org](https://www.slax.org/).

## FAQs
### Q: What makes Slax different from other Linux distributions?
A: Slax is optimized for lightweight performance and portability, allowing it to run from USB drives or CD-ROMs. It is based on Slackware and includes tools for system recovery and penetration testing.

### Q: Can Slax be used for penetration testing?
A: Yes, its derivative Wifislax is specifically designed for Wi-Fi penetration testing, making it useful for security professionals.

### Q: How do I install Slax?
A: Slax can be installed by burning an ISO to a USB drive or CD-ROM and booting from it. It does not require traditional installation on a hard drive.

### Q: What is the latest stable version of Slax?
A: The latest stable version is 15.0.4, released in October 2023.

### Q: Is Slax suitable for older computers?
A: Yes, Slax is designed to run on low-resource systems, making it ideal for older hardware.

## Why It Matters
Slax plays a crucial role in the Linux ecosystem by providing a lightweight, portable alternative for users with limited hardware resources. Its ability to run from removable media makes it invaluable for system recovery, live demos, and security testing. By being based on Slackware, it offers a stable and customizable environment for users who prefer a more traditional Linux experience. Slax also serves as a foundation for specialized distributions like Wifislax, expanding its utility in security and networking applications.

## Notable For
- **Portability**: One of the few Linux distributions that can run entirely from USB or CD-ROM.
- **Lightweight Design**: Optimized for older hardware, making it accessible to a broader audience.
- **Security Tools**: Includes Wifislax, a specialized version for Wi-Fi penetration testing.
- **Slackware Foundation**: Built on Slackware, providing a stable and traditional Linux experience.
- **Active Development**: Regular updates and multiple stable releases, ensuring long-term support.

## Body
### Origins and Development
Slax was developed as a lightweight, portable Linux distribution based on Slackware. Its first versions were released in 2006, with significant updates in 2013 (7.0.8) and 2018 (9.6.4). The distribution gained popularity for its ability to run from USB drives or CD-ROMs, making it useful for system recovery and live computing.

### Key Features
- **Live Environment**: Slax can be booted directly from removable media without installation.
- **Fluxbox GUI**: Uses Fluxbox as its default window manager, providing a lightweight desktop experience.
- **Wifislax**: A specialized derivative focused on Wi-Fi penetration testing, enhancing its security applications.

### Versions and Updates
Slax has released multiple versions, including 7.0.8 (2013), 9.6.4 (2018), 11.2.1 (2022), and 15.0.4 (2023). Each update includes improvements in stability, compatibility, and feature sets.

### Licensing and Community
Slax is distributed under the GNU General Public License, ensuring open-source accessibility. The project maintains an active community and regular updates, making it a reliable choice for users seeking a lightweight Linux solution.

## References

1. [Slax 9.6.4 - Slax Linux](https://www.slax.org/blog/25343-Slax-9.6.4.html)
2. [Source](https://www.slax.org/changelog.php)
3. [2022](https://www.slax.org/blog.php)
4. [2022](https://www.slax.org/blog/27433-Releasing-Slax-15.0-based-on-Slackware-again-after-9-years-and-11.4-based-on-Debian-.html)
5. [New Slax based on Slackware released. 2023](https://www.slax.org/blog/27718-New-Slax-released.html)
6. [Slax's Recent Release: A Tale of Challenges. 2023](https://www.slax.org/blog/27960-Slax-s-Recent-Release-A-Tale-of-Challenges.html)
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
8. Quora
9. [Source](https://golden.com/wiki/Slax-WMXVK)