As someone who has only touched BSD in the form of opnsense and pfsense:
My understanding is that FreeBSD is the BSD that runs on the widest array of hardware and has the largest user base, is that correct?
OpenBSD is another BSD that has been focused on security since day one, how does that compare to HardenedBSD? Why should I choose one over the other?
I imagine that HBSD gains from being a FreeBSD fork in the same way Linux Mint gains from being a fork of Ubuntu, that is with a larger repository of apps?
Seems NetBSD is the most portable BSD, at least according to the site I quote below. They unfortunately doesn’t mention HardenedBSD at all:
Ease of Use and Practical Applications
When it comes to ease of use, FreeBSD provides the most user-friendly experience, thanks to its straightforward installer and large ports collection. It suits beginners as well as advanced users who want both performance and convenience.
OpenBSD requires a bit more expertise, especially because it demands careful configuration to maintain its strong security. Users who are not familiar with Unix-like systems may find the learning curve steep, but for those who prioritize security, the extra effort is worthwhile.
NetBSD sits in the middle, offering moderate ease of use. Its installation process is straightforward for desktops and servers, but for embedded systems or cross-platform projects, additional technical knowledge may be necessary. In practical terms, Choosing Between FreeBSD, OpenBSD, and NetBSD often depends on whether you prioritize performance, security, or portability.
FreeBSD do seem to be the right choice if you want the most packages available:
FreeBSD is not limited to server environments. It also works well as a desktop operating system for developers who need a stable, open-source platform for programming or testing applications. Its ports system and vast package availability further enhance its appeal for users who want flexibility combined with rock-solid stability.
As someone who has only touched BSD in the form of opnsense and pfsense:
My understanding is that FreeBSD is the BSD that runs on the widest array of hardware and has the largest user base, is that correct?
OpenBSD is another BSD that has been focused on security since day one, how does that compare to HardenedBSD? Why should I choose one over the other?
I imagine that HBSD gains from being a FreeBSD fork in the same way Linux Mint gains from being a fork of Ubuntu, that is with a larger repository of apps?
https://hardenedbsd.org/content/easy-feature-comparison
Seems NetBSD is the most portable BSD, at least according to the site I quote below. They unfortunately doesn’t mention HardenedBSD at all:
FreeBSD do seem to be the right choice if you want the most packages available: