What is Fedora, exactly? Fedora is a Linux-based operating system, a suite of software that makes your computer run. You can use the Fedora operating system to replace or to run alongside of other operating systems such as Microsoft Windows™ or Mac OS X™. The Fedora operating system is 100% free of cost for you to enjoy and share. Learn more about what Fedora is, the community that creates it, and why they make it at the About Fedora page.