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When it comes to what you can build on Linux, there are endless possibilities. But it is not exclusive to developers—a beginner can make use of it and still have the same experience as any other operating system. In fact, Linux will significantly help in learning any field of computer science because of how versatile the operating system is.

There are quite a few open source collaborative projects on Linux, such as Hyperledger, a blockchain framework that gives you tools to build applications. Most recently, the quantum-resistant blockchain platform, QANplatform, joined the Linux Foundation and its Post-Quantum Cryptography Alliance (PQCA) project for the development of quantum-safe solutions.

So if you are wondering, will quantum computing break bitcoin? You have nothing to worry about because this is not the first, as there are several other initiatives underway focused on creating quantum-proof solutions. Also known as post-quantum cryptography, this new technology will secure your systems and cryptocurrency from powerful quantum computers of the future. In no time Linux will get an array of quantum-safe wallets and security programs.

If a Linux-based device is your daily driver, then everything from media and content creation to software development and general computing use, each use case will require a stable app that can get the job done efficiently. With that and software developers in mind, we have compiled this list of open-source projects and apps for Linux.

General Tools

pkg-config

pkg-config is a tool that simplifies the process of finding the correct paths for compiling and linking libraries in software projects. The tool provides you with the necessary details to pass to the compiler and can also be used by build automation software like CMake.

GCC (GNU Compiler Collections)

GCC stands for GNU Compiler Collections and is one of the largest free programs out there, consisting of over 15 million lines of code. It is an open-source collection of compilers and libraries with support for various programming languages.

Specific Frameworks

Hyperledger

Hyperledger is an open-source blockchain project that offers frameworks and tools to build blockchain applications for various industries. It is an umbrella term for 12 other projects each offering unique tools and solutions.

Mono

Mono is an open source implementation of Microsoft’s .NET Framework designed for Linux and operating systems other than Windows. After the release of .NET Core (now called .NET.), mono has very specific use cases.

OpenJDK

OpenJDK is an open source version of the Java Development Kit which is made of a set of tools and software components that aid in building and running Java applications. It is used for creating scalable and secure applications

Graphics

GIMP

GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) is a free alternative to commercial programs like Adobe Photoshop. This powerful photo editor is packed with extensive features that let you bring your creative ideas to life. For free software it does everything that a paid program of its kind does and in some cases even better.

Blender

Blender is your go-to software for crafting any 3D models, you even create entire animations with it. With Python scripts, you can easily import and export in Blender. Also, other functionalities, such as rendering and automation of repetitive tasks can be scripted.

Inkscape

Inkscape is a vector graphics editor mainly used for creating icons and pixel perfect logos. The program is tailor made for unix-like systems for designing graphs, illustrations, web graphics.

IDEs (Integrated Development Environment)

Kdevelop

KDevelop is a fully-featured C and C++ IDE but also supports other languages. It is the best code completion and project support program for Unix-like operating systems. Apart from being an intelligent code editor, it supports different build systems, such as CMake.

PyCharm

PyCharm is a Python IDE, and much like other programs of its kind, it provides code analysis, syntax and error highlighting, navigation, and debugging features. It also supports web development with Django.

Frameworks For Other Use Cases

Qiskit

Qiskit is an open-source software development kit (SDK) for working on quantum algorithms and quantum systems. It is developed by IBM and is the highest performing quantum SDK as of this writing. You can install it on your Linux computer via Python.

Cirq

Cirq is a Python framework developed by Google for writing and manipulating quantum programs on quantum simulators and quantum processors. These frameworks (Cirq and Qiskit) allow you to work on quantum algorithms even without a detailed knowledge of quantum mechanics.

General Use

Thunderbird

Mozilla Thunderbird is a powerful email client with a large library of extensions and plugins that enhance its functionality and appearance.

Brave Browser

Brave Browser is easily the best and most secure web browser on Linux, with features that automatically block most ads and annoying pop-ups. Its designed philosophy revolves around privacy, and it makes sure that your data is not tracked. It also has a built-in crypto wallet.