RakuOS is a Hybrid Atomic Linux distribution built on Fedora — combining an immutable, read-only base system with the full package flexibility of a traditional distro. The core system updates atomically via bootc and can be instantly rolled back, while a persistent overlay lets you install any native package that survives every update. Stable, unbreakable, and completely flexible.
Unlike traditional Linux systems where packages and updates directly modify the operating system, RakuOS uses a Hybrid Atomic model — the core system is always immutable and read-only, but you still have full package flexibility.
System updates are applied via bootc and can be instantly rolled back if something goes wrong. Your base system can never be broken by a bad update.
For packages, RakuOS uses a persistent overlay system mounted on /usr. This means you can install any native package using dnf, dnf5, KDE Discover, or GNOME Software — and those packages survive every system update automatically. No reinstalling after upgrades, no layering slowness.
Flatpak is available alongside native packages for sandboxed desktop apps, and Distrobox keeps development environments fully isolated from the base system.
The result is the best of both worlds: an indestructible base you can always recover, combined with the full software freedom of a traditional Linux distro.
The preferred method is Flatpak
You can install Flatpak apps using the Software Center included with your desktop environment:
These stores connect to Flathub, which provides a large selection of desktop applications.
Yes:
flatpak install flathub {app-id}
To search:
flatpak search {app}
Flatpak apps are installed system-wide by default and are sandboxed for security. They do not modify the core operating system.
Use Distrobox.
Distrobox lets you run a full Linux environment (such as Fedora, Ubuntu, or Arch) inside a container, integrated with your home directory and terminal.
Example:
distrobox-create --name dev --image fedora:latest
distrobox-enter dev
This is the recommended way to install:
Yes, using RakuOS's persistent overlay, but this should be used only when necessary.
Example:
sudo rakuos install {package-name}
After installation, reboot to apply changes.
Only if:
Examples:
Yes:
sudo rakuos remove {package-name}
Then reboot.
Updates are atomic and safe:
sudo rakuos update
Reboot after the update to switch to the new system version.
If something goes wrong, you can roll back:
sudo rpm-ostree rollback
| Use Case | Recommended Method |
|---|---|
| Desktop apps | Flatpak via Software Center |
| Development tools | Distrobox |
| CLI environments | Distrobox |
| System-level software | rpm-ostree layering (last resort) |
An app isn’t available in the Software Center. What should I do?
flatpak search {app}No. Flatpak and Distrobox isolate applications from the base system. The immutable design of RakuOS prevents most system-level breakage.
Yes: