StartOS is a Server OS. It is a Linux distro that is optimized for administering servers. Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and other Linux distros, such as Debian and Ubuntu, are optimized for administering clients, such as phones or laptops. Using these operating systems to administer a server requires "popping the hood" and using the command line. Server administration involves compiling software, permissioning file systems, editing configuration files, managing dependencies, configuring network interfaces, generating certificates, monitoring health, creating backups, etc etc. It is a serious undertaking that requires significant time and expertise. For developers and system administrators, StartOS provides huge time savings over traditional Linux workflows. For everyone else, it makes administering a server possible.

The StartOS graphical interface is a private website, accessible from a local monitor or remote web browser. Through it, users can discover, download, install, configure, monitor, back up, and generally manage any variety of self-hosted, open-source software.