Software Alternatives & Startups

Qubes OS VS Devuan GNU+Linux

Compare Qubes OS VS Devuan GNU+Linux and see what are their differences

Qubes OS logo Qubes OS

Qubes is a security-oriented, free and open-source operating system for personal computers that allows you to securely compartmentalize your digital life.‎Download Mirrors · ‎Qubes R4.

Devuan GNU+Linux logo Devuan GNU+Linux

Debian without Systemd
  • Qubes OS Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-13
  • Devuan GNU+Linux Landing page
    Landing page //
    2020-01-19

Qubes OS features and specs

  • Security
    Qubes OS is designed with security in mind, implementing strong isolation mechanisms based on Xen-based virtualization to compartmentalize various tasks and applications.
  • Compartmentalization
    By isolating different activities into separate virtual machines (VMs), Qubes OS minimizes the damage that can be done by compromised applications or malware.
  • Privacy
    The compartmentalization, combined with features like Whonix integration for anonymous internet use, offers strong privacy protections for users.
  • Advanced Networking
    Qubes OS includes advanced networking capabilities, allowing users to create secure and separated network environments within isolated VMs.
  • Flexibility
    Users can run different operating systems within Qubes OS, as it supports various Linux distributions and Windows VMs, making it versatile for various needs.

Possible disadvantages of Qubes OS

  • Resource-Intensive
    Qubes OS requires substantial hardware resources, including a large amount of RAM and storage, which can be a barrier for users with older or less powerful hardware.
  • Learning Curve
    The advanced security features and unique architecture require a steep learning curve, potentially making it challenging for less technically proficient users.
  • Compatibility Issues
    Not all hardware is fully compatible with Qubes OS, particularly some specific GPUs and wireless chips, which can limit the usability on various devices.
  • Performance Overhead
    Running multiple VMs simultaneously can introduce performance overhead, impacting the speed and responsiveness of the system.
  • Limited Application Support
    Some applications may not be fully compatible or available in a suitable version for the isolated VMs in Qubes OS, potentially limiting functionality.

Devuan GNU+Linux features and specs

  • Systemd-Free
    Devuan does not use systemd as its init system, which appeals to users who prefer alternative init systems like sysvinit due to systemd's complexity and perceived centralized control.
  • Stability
    Devuan aims to provide a stable and consistent operating environment by forking from Debian without using systemd, suitable for users who value stability over the latest features.
  • Compatibility
    Devuan maintains a high level of compatibility with Debian, allowing users to access a wide range of software packages available in the Debian repositories, minus those requiring systemd.
  • Privacy and Control
    By avoiding systemd, some users feel they have greater control over their system's processes, enhancing privacy and reducing potential data collection.

Possible disadvantages of Devuan GNU+Linux

  • Limited Software Support
    Some modern software packages that depend on systemd may not be available or function optimally on Devuan, potentially limiting choices for users requiring such software.
  • Smaller Community
    As a relatively niche distribution compared to Debian, Devuan has a smaller community, which may result in less community support and fewer resources or tutorials.
  • Delayed Updates
    Updates on Devuan may lag behind other distributions, as it takes time to ensure compatibility without systemd, which might affect users seeking the latest software features or security fixes.
  • Complex Migration
    Users migrating from systemd-based systems may face complexities or a steeper learning curve as they adapt to different init systems used in Devuan.

Analysis of Qubes OS

Overall verdict

  • Qubes OS is generally regarded as a highly secure operating system, especially suitable for users who need strong protection against cyber threats. Although it offers advanced security features, its complexity and resource requirements may not make it the ideal choice for everyone.

Why this product is good

  • Qubes OS is considered a good operating system because it focuses on security through compartmentalization. By utilizing virtualization, Qubes OS isolates different tasks and applications in separate virtual machines, reducing the risk of malware or other malicious activities affecting the entire system. This architecture enhances privacy and security, making it an attractive choice for users who prioritize these aspects.

Recommended for

    Qubes OS is recommended for security-conscious individuals, privacy advocates, journalists, researchers, and IT professionals who manage sensitive data or perform at-risk operations. It is also suitable for technical users who are comfortable navigating and managing a Linux-based environment and who value security over ease of use.

Qubes OS videos

Qubes OS Review | Windows Integration

More videos:

  • Review - Qubes OS Part 1: Overview and Features
  • Tutorial - Qubes OS Tutorial | Install, Config, and Introduction

Devuan GNU+Linux videos

Devuan GNU+Linux 3.0.0 overview | software freedom, your way

More videos:

  • Review - Devuan GNU+Linux presented at FSCONS 2016

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Qubes OS and Devuan GNU+Linux)
Operating Systems
77 77%
23% 23
Linux Distribution
67 67%
33% 33
Linux
78 78%
22% 22
Open Source
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Qubes OS and Devuan GNU+Linux

Qubes OS Reviews

The 10 Best Immutable Linux Distributions in 2024
Given the nature of immutable distributions, a strong emphasis on security is essential. Distributions that implement robust security measures, whether through sandboxing applications, using secure package management systems, or providing advanced isolation techniques (like in Qubes OS), were given priority.
Best Linux distro for privacy and security of 2024
Thanks to its radically different approach, Qubes does have a learning curve. However it isn’t abrupt enough to prevent you from using the distro like a normal Linux installation. Qubes is based on Fedora and uses the Xfce desktop environment. But instead of a list of apps, its application menu lists several qubes such as work, personal, untrusted, each of which rolls the...
Top 5 Secure Operating Systems for Privacy and Anonymity
In short, Qubes is an operating system that separates tasks and applications into distinct VMs and further isolates them using containers. By leveraging these technologies, Qubes OS can deliver enhanced performance and security.
The 5 Best Privacy-Focused Operating Systems
Qubes OS is a unique privacy-focused Linux distribution that prioritizes security through virtualization. It allows you to create isolated virtual machines (VMs) for different tasks, enhancing privacy and security. Each VM runs separately, reducing the risk of data leaks and malware infections.
Avoid The Hack: 11 Best Privacy Friendly Operating Systems (Desktops)
Qubes is unique in that it uses Xen-based virtualization, which enables strong isolation of different pieces of software - which can include operating systems. Multiple operating systems can run at the same time through Qubes - and they won't even "know" other operating systems exist.

Devuan GNU+Linux Reviews

We have no reviews of Devuan GNU+Linux yet.
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Qubes OS seems to be a lot more popular than Devuan GNU+Linux. While we know about 81 links to Qubes OS, we've tracked only 7 mentions of Devuan GNU+Linux. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Qubes OS mentions (81)

  • Everything I Own, Owned
    > > Operating systems aren’t really equipped to work with the user to ensure that a microphone stays a microphone, and doesn’t spontaneously turn into a keyboard that hits Win+R Some operating systems can protect you from that. See: https://qubes-os.org. - Source: Hacker News / 15 days ago
  • Ask HN: How to deal with security implications of running/installing projects?
    Have you considered Qubes OS, https://qubes-os.org? It is more secure than Xen, which it relies on, https://www.qubes-os.org/security/xsa/#statistics. - Source: Hacker News / about 1 month ago
  • Jolla Phone, Over 13 500 units sold
    > Our desktop OSes are just incompatible with running untrusted software You should have a look at https://qubes-os.org. - Source: Hacker News / 2 months ago
  • Curl will not accept vulnerability reports during July 2026
    I think you're right, and the solution is security through compartmentalization. See: https://qubes-os.org. - Source: Hacker News / 3 months ago
  • The foundations of a provably secure operating system (PSOS) (1979) [pdf]
    It looks like you you may be interested in Qubes OS, security oriented operating system relying on strong, hardware-assisted virtualization: https://qubes-os.org. My daily driver, can't recommend it enough. - Source: Hacker News / 4 months ago
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Devuan GNU+Linux mentions (7)

  • Store birth date in systemd for age verification
    Hello, as always: imho. (!) idk the exact procedure which will apply to enter the birth-date on such a system, but if other comments are correct: just enter what you want! There will be no real possibility to tie this to anything "legal" / to "enforce" any "official" check of lets say your passport or other governmental id. And if in my personal opinion (!) the pretty crazy guy behind the systemd-project tries to... - Source: Hacker News / 6 months ago
  • User and Admin Documentation?
    I'm a new user with first install. Are there any user guides / admin guides available? I'm not seeing much documentation available at devuan.org -- maybe my eyes glaze over(?). Source: over 3 years ago
  • I removed Gnome and snapd from Ubuntu and it turns out the system underneath is reasonably lightweight with 130M ram and 2.8G disk usage.
    If Canonical spin a variant without systemd, possibly choosing Devuan as the base, it'll be great. Possibly, less resource hungry. Source: over 4 years ago
  • Trisquel GNU/Linux
    Trisquel's FAQ says: > Why should I use Trisquel instead of one of the better-known distributions? > There are literally hundreds of GNU/Linux distributions designed to fill every conceivable niche. Only a handful of them are entirely free software; Trisquel is one such distribution. ... But I disagree. Trisquel is based on ubuntu, and uses systemd. Not just as some optional init system you can remove -... - Source: Hacker News / over 4 years ago
  • Move from Ubuntu?
    If you're experienced, look at Devuan Chimaera. BTW, I always felt Gnome is the most productive work environment with that UI. I think Cinnamon may come close. Source: almost 5 years ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Qubes OS and Devuan GNU+Linux, you can also consider the following products

Tails - Tails is a Debian based live CD/USB with the goal of providing complete Internet anonymity for the...

Gentoo - The website of Gentoo, a flexible Linux or BSD distribution.

Whonix - Whonix aims at preserving your privacy and anonymity by helping you use your applications...

Debian - Debian is a free distribution of the GNU/Linux operating system.

Linux Mint - Linux Mint is one of the most popular desktop Linux distributions and used by millions of people.

Void Linux - Void is a general purpose operating system, based on the monolithic Linux kernel.