I'm trying to understand how software updates function differently between fixed release distributions like Fedora and rolling release ones like Arch. Specifically, if I install Steam from the Fedora repository (not via Flatpak), will I receive updates for Steam immediately when they're released, or will those updates be put on hold until the next official Fedora release? And if it's the former scenario, what types of software remain unchanged in fixed release distributions compared to rolling releases, aside from the desktop environment and kernel?
5 Answers
Steam updates itself regardless of the distro. LTS distros mainly get security updates for software; honestly, constant app updates can be a bit overrated—most users don’t want something new every week.
Honestly, it can vary a lot. If the distro is curated well, like Fedora, you might see updates weekly for critical issues, but if it’s a rolling release like Arch, you could get multiple updates a day. Fedora is kind of in the middle; it gives you stability without being completely static.
It really depends on the package and its source. Fixed release distros typically don’t update packages outside of a new release, unless it's a critical security fix. If you want to keep certain user applications up to date, you usually need to enable additional repositories. For Fedora, for instance, you'll want to enable RPMFusion for Steam, which is a separate repo that gets updated more frequently than the main Fedora repositories. Fixed releases will generally have stable repositories for core system packages and separate ones for additional, less stable software that isn't bound by the main release cycle.
Actually, packages in Fedora can stay updated; the system is designed to track upstream releases and request updates when needed. Using third-party repos isn't the only way to keep software up-to-date.
In fixed release distros, packages freeze at a certain point with updates only for bugs or security. Major updates or new software usually wait for the next release. However, distros like Fedora keep essential packages like the kernel and browsers updated more regularly. Rolling releases, on the other hand, allow you to get new software as soon as it’s available.
It's all about the distro’s policy. Fixed release versions don’t change their core components like the kernel and libraries frequently. However, they might update user applications like web browsers or certain tools fairly regularly. It varies based on how active the maintainers are.
Thanks a lot, this cleared up my confusion.