Linux Distributions
Steve Pitts
Linux Distribution History
First, a little history and the answer to the question ‘What the heck is a Linux Distribution?’. When the Linux operating system was young, it was just the Linux kernel. Programmers had fun but the Linux kernel doesn’t interact with people. The kernel is the supervisor managing resources and getting bits and bytes to where they need to go. For Linux to do useful things we have to add programs. It’s the programs that talk to people, do what you ask and finally make you say “Gee, that’s cool”. The kernel, plus all the programs make up the Linux Distribution or distro in geek speak.
There are hundreds of Linux distros out there, many that will do a great job. We focus on three distros that are solid and well maintained. The average person can “just use” these out of the box they are: Debian, Ubuntu and Mint. These three distros are available in a format that allows you to try before you install as well as media that are intended for installation only.
Debian Home Page
Linux Mint Home Page
