AlpineBSD: A New Operating System Based on NetBSD Kernel and Alpine Linux Userspace

Introduction to AlpineBSD

AlpineBSD is a new operating system project that integrates the NetBSD kernel with a userspace drawing inspiration from Alpine Linux. The project's core objective is to avoid the inclusion of AI-generated software within its base system and main package repository.

Currently, AlpineBSD is under active development and does not yet offer a formal installer. An installation guide is available for users interested in trying the system.

Relationship with NetBSD

AlpineBSD utilizes the NetBSD kernel, its libc, and essential platform-specific utilities such as mount. Users should be aware that the NetBSD kernel has limited hardware support compared to Linux, meaning AlpineBSD may not function on all hardware. Compatibility information is available via the NetBSD supported hardware list.

Relationship with Alpine Linux

AlpineBSD incorporates the apk-tools package manager and busybox, similar to Alpine Linux. It features a userspace with a preference for GNU tools, such as GNU make, over BSD alternatives. AlpineBSD is not a fork of Alpine Linux; it maintains its own package collection, though many packages derive from aports. While Alpine Linux uses OpenRC, AlpineBSD currently employs s6, with plans to offer OpenRC as an alternative in the future.

Project Philosophy

A key principle of AlpineBSD is its strict policy against AI-generated software. The project explicitly states that no Large Language Model (LLM) output is included in its base system or primary package repository, aiming to provide a system built without such contributions.