Also known as: distro · Linux distro
A Linux distribution is a complete operating system built around the Linux kernel, bundling it with system libraries, a package manager, default utilities, and a curated set of software, along with policies for how all of it is maintained and updated.
Distributions differ mainly in release philosophy and packaging. Fixed-release distributions freeze versions and backport security fixes for a defined lifecycle; rolling-release distributions ship updates continuously, trading predictability for currency.
The choice is largely an operational one about how change is managed. Server environments typically favour long-term-support fixed releases for stability, while developer workstations often favour rolling releases for current tooling.
Package Manager
A package manager is the tool that installs, updates, configures, and removes software on a Linux system, resolving dependencies automatically and verifying package integrity through cryptographic signatures.
Long-Term Support
Long-term support (LTS) designates a software release that will receive security patches and critical bug fixes for an extended period — typically several years — without introducing new features or breaking changes.
Kernel
The kernel is the core of an operating system, responsible for managing memory, scheduling processes, and mediating all access between software and hardware. The Linux kernel is the component that makes a system 'Linux'.
Init System
The init system is the first user-space process started by the kernel at boot, running as PID 1, responsible for starting and supervising all other system services and handling shutdown.
Open Source
Open source software is software distributed under a licence that grants anyone the right to use, inspect, modify, and redistribute the source code, subject to conditions defined by that licence.