Gentoo is a versatile and customizable Linux distribution known for its performance and flexibility. It allows users to build their operating system from the ground up, compiling software specifically for their hardware. This makes it a popular choice among advanced users and developers who want complete control over their system. The installation process of Gentoo can be complex, as it requires users to configure various settings and compile packages manually. However, this level of customization enables users to optimize their systems for specific tasks, making Gentoo suitable for servers, desktops, and embedded systems alike.