What is BOSS Linux? Features, Is it the first Indian operating system?

BOSS Linux, also referred to as Bharat Operating System Solutions, is an Indian Linux distribution developed by Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) for Free and Open Source Software (NRCFOSS). It is made specifically for the Indian environment, intended for use in the government. BOSS is also seen as a homegrown alternative to Microsoft's Windows. Latest version is 10.0, code name Pragya released on 15 March 2024.

The main goal of BOSS Linux is to localize it for more Indian regional languages.

What is BOSS Linux based on?

BOSS is an Indian Linux distribution based on Debian. There are 10 versions and before version 7.0, BOSS OS used GNOME as the default desktop environment. They switched to Cinnamon from version 8.0 (Codename: Unnati).

What are BOSS Editions/Variants?

There are four variants:

1. BOSS Desktop – Designed for personal computers, office and home use
2. BOSS Server – It comes pre-installed with various server applications such as Web Server, Proxy Server, Network server, File server, SMS server and other applications.
3. EduBOSS – This is made specially for Indian students and teachers, it comes with Educational games, Scientific tools, Typing Tutor, Learning tools and various education apps.
4. BOSS MOOL stands for Minimalistic Object Oriented Linux. This means it revamps the standard Linux kernel to use object-oriented programming (OOP) concepts.

History of BOSS Linux

BOSS Linux, also known as Bharat Operating System Solutions, has been around since the early 2000s. Developed by C-DAC, a government research organization in India, its aim was to promote open-source software and fulfill the country's digital needs.

Version History:

• Version 1.0 (codename Tarang): Released in January 2006.
• Version 2.0 (codename Anant): Released in September 2007.
• Version 3.0 (codename Tejas): Released in September 2008.
• Version 4.0 (codename Savir): Released in April 2011.
• Version 5.0 (codename Anokha): Released in September 2013.
• Version 6.0 (codename Anoop): Released in August 2015.
• Version 7.0 (codename Drishti): Released in August 2018.
• Version 8.0 (codename Unnati): Released on July 11, 2019.
• Version 9.0 (codename Urja): Released on February 19, 2021.
• Version 10.0 (codename Pragya): Released on March 15, 2024.

What is the kernel version of BOSS 10 Desktop edition?

Kernel version is: 6.1.0-10-amd64

Architecture: x86-64

Features of BOSS Linux:

• Available in four variants: Desktop GUI, Server, Education, and MOOL.
• Graphic installer: We tried the graphic installer, and it is so easy to install BOSS Linux.
• Secure and stable.
• Pre-installed Chromium and Firefox ESR web browsers. Firefox ESR does not require frequent updates.
• Supports printers, scanners, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, touchpads, etc.
• Comes with a CD/DVD writer program and sound recorder.
• Supports 19 Indian languages.

Is BOSS Linux the first Indian operating system?

We cannot definitively say that BOSS Linux is the first Indian operating system. While it is one of the most notable and widely recognized Indian operating systems, there have been other attempts, such as IndusOS and BharOS for mobile devices.

How can I update/upgrade BOSS Linux?

Upgrading/Updating BOSS Linux is easy. Just follow these steps

• Open the terminal by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T on your computer or search for Terminal in the application menu.
• Type the following command: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

After the update completes, reboot your operating system if necessary.

How to Change Password on BOSS Linux?

Follow the below steps to change your BOSS Linux password.

• Open terminal by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T on your computer or search for Terminal in the application menu.
• Type sudo passwd Username
• Replace Username with the actual username you wish to change the password for.
• Enter your password and if asked for verification, then type it again and press enter.

Your password will be changed, and you can log in with the new password.

Conclusion

BOSS Linux is an Indian operating system funded by the government. It's a secure OS used by over 6 million users. Considering its focus on privacy, it can be a good choice for your operating system. BOSS Linux is actively maintained, and as a hosting provider, we recommend it if you prioritize a private, secure, and stable operating system with minimal bloatware. We're happy to have covered most topics about BOSS Linux in this article. Additionally, SSH can be easily enabled on the BOSS Server edition. If you want to host it on our VPS, we're happy to help you set it up.