What is Linux From Scratch?

Linux From Scratch (LFS) is a project that provides you with step-by-step instructions for building your own customized Linux system entirely from source.

Why would I want an LFS system?

Many wonder why they should go through the hassle of building a Linux system from scratch when they could just download an existing Linux distribution. However, there are several benefits of building LFS. Consider the following:

LFS teaches people how a Linux system works internally
Building LFS teaches you about all that makes Linux tick, how things work together and depend on each other. And most importantly, how to customize it to your own tastes and needs.

Building LFS produces a very compact Linux system
When you install a regular distribution, you often end up installing a lot of programs that you would probably never use. They’re just sitting there taking up (precious) disk space. It’s not hard to get an LFS system installed under 100 MB. Does that still sound like a lot? A few of us have been working on creating a very small embedded LFS system. We installed a system that was just enough to run the Apache web server; total disk space usage was approximately 8 MB. With further stripping, that can be brought down to 5 MB or less. Try that with a regular distribution.

LFS is extremely flexible
Building LFS could be compared to a finished house. LFS will give you the skeleton of a house, but it’s up to you to install plumbing, electrical outlets, kitchen, bath, wallpaper, etc. You have the ability to turn it into whatever type of system you need it to be, customized completely for you.

LFS offers you added security
You will compile the entire system from source, thus allowing you to audit everything, if you wish to do so, and apply all the security patches you want or need to apply. You don’t have to wait for someone else to provide a new binary package that (hopefully) fixes a security hole. Often, you never truly know whether a security hole is fixed or not unless you do it yourself.

What can I do with my LFS system?

A by-the-book LFS system is fairly minimal, but is designed to provide a strong base on which you can add any packages you want. See the BLFS project for a selection of commonly used packages.

Who’s who:

Project Leader: Gerard Beekmans
Project Co-leader: Matthew Burgess
Editor: Jeremy Huntwork
Editor: Ken Moffat
Editor: Dan Nicholson
Editor: Bryan Kadzban
Editor: Alexander Patrakov
XML/XSL Editor: Manuel Canales Esparcia
Plus numerous people who contribute to the book and its side projects.

From: http://www.linuxfromscratch.org/lfs/

Linux From Scratch gets my attention because of its detailed explanation on how to create your own optimized Linux. It is like looking on Linux on its cellular level. I was amazed by the limitless possibilities that you will learn by taking the journey of creating your own LFS. This page will be my unofficial documentation as I will start my journey hoping to encourage other Linux enthusiast for exploration. Definitely, posted here are all the problems and errors that I will encounter and its solution for reference to others who aspire to try and create their own LFS.

Author Profile

lordfrancs3

Lordfrancis3 is a member of PinoyLinux since its establishment in 2011. With a wealth of experience spanning numerous years, he possesses a profound understanding of managing and deploying intricate infrastructure. His contributions have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in shaping the community's growth and success. His expertise and dedication reflect in every aspect of the journey, as PinoyLinux continues to champion the ideals of Linux and open-source technology. LordFrancis3's extensive experience remains an invaluable asset, and his commitment inspires fellow members to reach new heights. His enduring dedication to PinoyLinux's evolution is truly commendable.