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# Slackware-Based Distro Absolute Linux Discontinued by Developer
- URL: https://itsfoss.com/news/absolute-linux-discontinued/
- Published: 2025-01-07T10:08:43.000Z
- Updated: 2025-01-07T10:08:43.000Z
- Description: This Slackware-based distro is no more.
- Author: Sourav Rudra
- Tags: Development Updates, News, #Import 2025-11-08 21:15

Being one of the oldest Linux distributions, [Slackware](http://www.slackware.com/?ref=itsfoss.com) is known for its simplicity and stability, offering a no-nonsense experience that many people trust. It is an excellent distro for those who want to learn Linux from the ground up, as there is significant user involvement when setting it up.

As is the case with many other major distributions, Slackware too has many derivatives. Sadly, **many of those are not actively maintained**, and a recent announcement just added another one to the list.

**What's Happening:** A brief write-up by the lead developer of [Absolute Linux](https://www.absolutelinux.org/?ref=itsfoss.com), Paul Sherman, has revealed that **he won't be working on the distro anymore**. He has stated that rising expenses, age, and, more importantly, a lack of time are the reasons behind this move.

![a screenshot of absolute linux with some apps open](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2025/01/Absolute_Linux.jpg)

A screenshot of Absolute Linux for reference. (**Source: Absolute Linux*)

Back in 2014, Paul had returned from [a break](https://www.linux.org/threads/absolute-linux-and-paul-sherman.9736/?ref=itsfoss.com) after enduring a long period of illness, but now, after years of contribution, it looks like he is ready to retire.

**What's Next:** Paul has mentioned that **he is open to anyone taking over the distro**, so there's still hope that someone could revive Absolute Linux, but it is not a surety.

However, if you are an existing user, and want to get the latest packages, then I suggest you switch to Slackware, as **the last major Absolute Linux release was back in June 2024**.

As for the original announcement, it is as follows:

> Age, expense, but mostly LACK OF TIME leave me no choice but to give it up. I won't bore you with the crybaby details, but I gotta make ends meet. If someone wants to take the distro over, I would be happy to freely pass it on. I enjoyed tinkering all those years!

**Via:** [Linuxiac](https://linuxiac.com/slackware-based-absolute-linux-has-been-discontinued/?ref=itsfoss.com)

**Suggested Read** 📖

[7 Best Gentoo-Based Linux DistributionsWant to experience Gentoo but better and easier? These Gentoo-based distributions got your back.![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/size/w256h256/2022/12/android-chrome-192x192.png)It's FOSSAnkush Das![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/02/gentoo-based-distros.png)](https://itsfoss.com/gentoo-based-distros/)