3.2 How compatible is Debian with other distributions of Linux?

Debian developers communicate with other Linux distribution creators in an effort to maintain binary compatibility across Linux distributions. Most commercial Linux products run as well under Debian as they do on the system upon which they were built.

Debian GNU/Linux adheres to the Linux Filesystem Hierarchy Standard. However, there is room for interpretation in some of the rules within this standard, so there may be slight differences between a Debian system and other Linux systems.

Debian GNU/Linux supports software developed for the Linux Standard Base. The LSB is a specification for allowing the same binary package to be used on multiple distributions. Packages for the Debian Etch release must not conflict with requirements of the LSB, v1.3. As of this writing, Debian GNU/Linux is not formally LSB-certified. However, some Debian derived distributions are. Discussion and coordination of efforts towards ensuring Debian meets the requirements of the Linux Standard Base is taking place on the debian-lsb mailing list.