Frequently Asked Questions

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, or RakuOS Software, our software center — 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 our the /usr overlay

You can install Native and Flatpak apps using the Software Center included with RakuOS:

The store connects to Flathub and upstream repos, 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:latestdistrobox-enter dev

This is the recommended way to install:

• Compilers
• Language runtimes
• Development toolchains
• CLI utilities

• Keeps the base system clean
• Avoids dependency conflicts
• Easy to remove or recreate environments
• Works well for development workflows

Yes, using RakuOS's persistent overlay.

Example:

sudo rakupkg install {package-name}

After installation, you should see it in your application menu

Yes:

sudo rakupkg remove {package-name}

No. our overlay system protects the base /usr from file shadowing while allowing you to install anything you want

Yes:

• Read-only base system
• Atomic updates
• Flatpak sandboxing
• Easy rollback if needed

• Official website
• Gitlab project page
• Community channels (coming soon)