A. Linux Distributions (Distros)

A Linux distribution is a collection of software components that are put together by one or more people, a company, or an
organization. Anyone can do it - it’s open source software! These Linux software components are put together from various sources and made to work together. They are then “distributed” to the public (via download, CD or DVD) as a “distribution” - distro for short.

Popular Linux distros include Red Hat, Fedora, SUSE, Ubuntu, Mandriva (formerly Mandrake) and Puppy (yes - puppy - woof!). There are over 130 Linux distros - even a Pizza Box distro and one made by NASA that runs in the Space Shuttle!

B. Linux Distro Components

There are several software components that are common to all major Linux distros.

The common software components included in a Linux distro are: the Linux kernel, the X Window System, the Linux desktops, the GNU commands, many types of servers, and many “other” programs that allow you to lots of things, like: send email, create
graphics, play songs and movies, create CDs, and “chat” with other people online.

The Linux kernel - is the “core” or foundation of the operating system. It allows the operating system its functionality, such as
running programs, retrieving and saving data, managing files, and the capability of working with various types of hardware.

The Linux kernel is always part of a Linux system and it’s the thing that makes a system a “Linux system”. “Linux” is really
just the Linux kernel (software component). However, all the common software components in a Linux distribution are usually
referred to as “Linux”.

The X Window System - is another Linux software component and it provides Linux with the capability of having a “point-and-click” desktop environment.

The Linux desktops - are very similar to the Windows desktop and they all have the same functionality as Windows. They let you use menus and icons to easily run Linux programs. There are several different desktops that can be used with Linux.

People tend to choose one Linux desktop over another mainly as a matter of personal preference. The two most common and popular Linux desktops are named GNOME and KDE.

The GNU commands - are the Linux commands that are the real power behind administering a Linux system. They are common to all Linux distros and so the skills you learn by working with commands can be applied to all distros!

Written by Clyde Boom.