How is a Distrobution Created?

[Arcelios]

I was just wondering how Linux distributions are created. They all look different, so much so that is you didn't know better, you'd say that none of them are Linux based-they become so much of their own operating system. I want to create my own Linux distribution, and I was wondering how. Not just picking what packages to install, but also how to create your own look and feel. Take Ubuntu Linux for example. Ubuntu is not comprised entirely of other people's packages, it has it's own graphics, and general setup (navigation bars on top and bottom, etc.). I was just wondering how someone would go about creating an operating system with their own artwork. Not a templated system, like "insert your artwork here". I want to be able to completely customize the look. Basically, I want to control every single aspect of the operating system.

Looking back at what I've just written, I realize that I'm really asking for quite a lot of information. Just so I don't seem like a complete idiot, I'm going to say this: I know that I am not capable of creating my own distribution yet, but once I get an idea on how to do it, I will know what I need to learn in order to do it. I'm already pretty experienced in C++ and Java, as well as a fairly good amount of general technology knowledge.

It comes down to this: how can I make my own custom Linux Distribution?

Thanks,
Arcelios

[oz]

Welcome to the forums!

You'll really need to have a good understanding of how Linux works to put your own distro together. I'd suggest setting up a spare machine and completing Linux From Scratch so that you can build your Linux skills and eventually turn out your own distro.

[Arcelios]

Thanks-I'd heard of Linux From Scratch-I'll check it out. Thanks!

-Arcelios

[i92guboj]

It's been long ago since I notice that Gentoo gives you all the power of LFS, without all the hassle. You'll get the same degree of flexibility in an easier way. In case you want to learn, it's fine, otherwise, there's no point in using LFS because you end up investing all the time in the distro mainteinance. It can be useful if all you want is to make a livecd that will need no mainteinance, though.

[oz]

Another "build your own" distro that you might want to look at is Rock Linux.

Another good "learn a lot from it" distro would be CRUX.

Hope you have fun with it.