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What Is a Rolling Release?
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- Name
- hwahyeon
A rolling release is a software release model where the system is kept continuously up to date without requiring major version upgrades.
Instead of jumping from "22.04 to 24.04", the system is updated gradually and stays current at all times.
In the Linux world, this model is used by distributions like Arch Linux and Manjaro.
Comparison with Fixed Release
| Category | Rolling Release | Fixed Release |
|---|---|---|
| Update Style | Continuously updated with new packages | Upgraded in large version jumps |
| Example Distros | Manjaro, Arch Linux | Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, CentOS |
| Pros | Always up to date with the latest software | Stable and well-tested package sets |
| Cons | Occasional update conflicts or breakage | Uses older software, needs manual upgrades |
To put it simply
A rolling release is like an online game that receives frequent patches, keeping everything fresh without needing a full reinstall.
In contrast, a fixed release is like a single-player game that stays on one version until a major expansion or sequel is released.