Does GitHub Actions Support Other Distributions Besides Ubuntu?

Question:

Can I use distributions other than ubuntu in my GitHub actions workflow, such as Alpine or Debian Linux?

Answer:

No, currently only specific runners are supported by GitHub for their hosted CI/CD systems. As of now (2024), the official choices include Ubuntu and platform-specific options like macOS (osx) and Windows (windows). These can be verified via GitHub’s documentation.

For those seeking alternatives, there are third-party services that offer runners with other operating systems such as Alpine or Debian for additional flexibility:

1. Alpine Linux - Runner options can be explored through community contributions and repositories like Github’s alpine runner image page.

2. Debian GNU/Linux Distribution (often referred to as Debian) – Similar alternatives exist, where one might find third party images or self hosted setups utilizing the community maintained runners available on platforms like GitHub Marketplace.

3. Custom Runners: If you need a specific setup with Alpine Linux for example and are willing to host your own runner, then using third-party services or setting up self-hosted runners might be the way forward as these allow customization of operating systems beyond what GitHub’s official offerings provide.

For further understanding on how it all works inside a CI/CD pipeline:
Explore Github Actions workflow or learn more about setting up your own runner here.

Please note that while GitHub provides this selection, they are continually assessing the landscape for possible expansion of supported runners based on feedback and demand from their developer community. Stay tuned to official communications or reach out directly with your suggestions!