loksh review
A focused way to run OpenBSD ksh on Linux, with minimal changes from upstream.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
loksh brings the OpenBSD KornShell (ksh) to Linux. It is for people who want this shell on a Linux system and value a port that stays close to upstream rather than introducing a broader feature set. The project is open source and can be used as a self-hosted command-line shell; its stated scope also makes it relevant to resource-constrained systems. Its appeal is focused: loksh is a Linux port, not a cross-platform shell offering.
Installation has two stated routes. Users can install loksh through Linux distribution packages, including Alpine Linux, or build and install it from source using Meson and Ninja. That gives package-based users a distribution-managed path while leaving source builders a documented toolchain route. The source-build option is a practical fit for users comfortable with that build setup; those who prefer not to build software should look for a suitable distribution package. The published positioning emphasizes installation and portability, not a suite of additional shell features.
The main trade-off is its deliberately narrow scope. Maintainers aim to keep changes to OpenBSD ksh minimal rather than adding features, so loksh makes most sense for Linux users specifically seeking that upstream shell behavior. It is less suited to someone choosing a shell for new features or support across non-Linux systems. There are no commercial plans to weigh against the open-source option: the choice is primarily whether a close Linux port matches the shell and platform you need. If it does, loksh offers package and source installation paths; if not, a shell with a different platform range or feature direction is a better fit.
loksh pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Keeps changes to upstream OpenBSD ksh minimal
- Available through Linux distribution packages
- Can be built from source with Meson and Ninja
- Where it doesn't
- Supports Linux, not other platforms
- Intentionally avoids adding features beyond its upstream focus
- Requires source-build users to work with Meson and Ninja
loksh fact sheet, pricing and score →
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