Introduction
In recent years, the demand for reliable and secure operating systems has driven the development of Linux distributions adapted to specific market needs. NeoKylin emerged as a Chinese response to that demand, focusing on providing a robust platform for companies and government entities.
What is NeoKylin?
NeoKylin is a Linux distribution based on the Linux kernel and free software packages developed by NeoKylin Software Co., Ltd. It is designed to be compatible with Chinese business applications and to meet strict safety standards.
Main characteristics
- Support for x86 _ 64 and ARM architectures.
- KDE or GNOME-based customizable desktop environment.
- Plot management tools and automatic updates.
- Integration with LDAP and Active Directory authentication systems.
- Security approach through SELinux and log audit.
- Compatibility with office applications like WPS Office and Kingsoft.
- Support for Docker containers and KVM virtual machines.
System architecture
NeoKylin uses a long-lasting Linux kernel (LTS) that receives backloaded security patches from more recent versions. The user layer includes RPM packages managed by the YUM package manager, which facilitates the installation and updating of software.
Cases of use
- Data infrastructures of banks and financial institutions.
- Internal networks of public administrations.
- Manufacturing environments that require real-time control.
- Development and testing of Chinese business applications.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
- High level of security and policy compliance.
- Good local technical support and documentation in Chinese.
- Compatibility with national hardware.
- Regular updates and long life cycle.
Disadvantages
- Less international community compared to distributions such as Ubuntu or CentOS.
- Some Western software packages may require adaptation.
- Learning curve for managers used to other disters.
Comparison with other Linux distributions
By comparing NeoKylin with distributions such as Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) or SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES), it is noted that NeoKylin offers a significant advantage in terms of adaptation to the Chinese market, while RHEL and SLES have more global ecosystem of certifications and hardware provider support.
Future and community
The NeoKylin project continues to receive investments from the Chinese government and local technology companies. It is expected that in the coming years they will incorporate improvements in integrated artificial intelligence and native support for RISC-V architectures.
Conclusion
NeoKylin represents a solid option for organizations that need a secure Linux operating system, compatible with the Chinese business environment and supported by a long-term committed supplier. Its focus on security, updates and local support positions it as a competitive alternative to other well-known distributions.
History and evolution
NeoKylin originated in 2002 as a project of NeoKylin Software to meet the Chinese government's security needs. Based initially on Red Hat Linux, it has evolved by incorporating the LTS kernel, centralized management tools and support for national hardware. With funding from the National Science and Technology Plan, it has expanded to sectors such as telecommunications, energy and defence. The current 10.x version uses the 5.10 LTS kernel and receives quarterly security updates. This continuous development positions NeoKylin as a long-term option for companies that require stability and regulatory compliance.
Installation process and initial configuration
The NeoKylin installation is made from an ISO that is recorded on USB or DVD. The Anaconda installer allows you to partition, select packages and configure the network. You can choose KDE, GNOME or a minimum server installation. After completion, language, time zone and user admin are set up. It is recommended to run yum update before putting the system into production.
- Download ISO and create boot medium.
- Start and follow the installation assistant.
- Configure partitions, network, credentials and update.
Application and compatibility ecosystem
NeoKylin includes an RPM repository with office software such as WPS Office and LibreOffice, databases such as Dameng and PostgreSQL, and development tools such as Eclipse and Qt Creator. It supports third-party repositories such as EPEL and allows Docker containers and KVM virtual machines to run. The ARM architectural support facilitates its use on low-consumption servers and IoT devices.
- Office: WPS Office, LibreOffice.
- Database: Dameng, PostgreSQL.
- Development: Eclipse, Qt Creator.
- Virtualization: Docker, KVM.
Professional support and services
NeoKylin Software offers three levels of support: basic (forums and documentation), standard (response in 8 hours) and premium (response in 2 hours with on-site visits). In addition, it provides management and security training, legal system migration consulting and a CSIRT team that monitors vulnerabilities and publishes security notices.
- Basic support: forums and documentation.
- Standard support: response within 8 working hours.
- Premium support: response in 2 hours, on-site visits.
Major cases of study
Some use cases illustrate how NeoKylin improves efficiency and safety in critical environments. These examples demonstrate the versatility of distribution in sectors such as finance, transport and education.
- Bank of China: migration of 12,000 posts to NeoKylin to reduce costs and increase security.
- China Railway Network: deployment in signalling systems, reaching 99.9% availability.
- University of Tsinghua: IA laboratory that uses NeoKylin on edge computing for experiments.
