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What is a GNU/Linux Distribution?
A GNU/Linux Distribution is an operating system built using the Linux kernel. These Linux Distributions are also simply known as Distros. The GNU/Linux Distributions are made up of Linux Kernel, set of libraries and utilities from the GNU Project System, and tons of softwares applications. While these distributions all have Linux kernel present in their heart but the differences lie in the application softwares they come with, the desktop they use, the installation routines, shells, commands, and administrative tasks.
Since there is no single Linux corporation that can bundle and distribute the Linux kernel along side other operating system essentials, many companies, universities, user groups, communities, and even private individuals take the burden to step up and distribute a completely working Linux operating system called distribution or distro (I find the later one more cool). All these distros have at least one similarity in them and that is the Linux Kernel: which may be considered as an installation platform for simplicity that installs and bundle operating system components like the X-Window system, word processors, games, multimedia softwares, etc.
There are a lot of Linux distros available for use. Some of them target a specific audience, such as businesses, educators, gamers, students, programmers, system administrators, and specific language users. The main difference between these distributions is the softwares that come along side the Linux Kernel, the GUI (Graphical User Interface), and the installer. Some major distributions try to target home users, providing ease of installation, easier GUI, and application softwares that a home user may want to use.
Linux Distributions are free, just like the Linux kernel. They are available for download for from the website of the distributor (like Ubuntu can be download from the Ubuntu website). Once downloaded you will have to burn the downloaded ISO on a CD or DVD. Once properly burning the CD you can now install the distribution from the CD or try it directly (if the Live CD option is available.
As mentioned earlier, most of the distributions provide an option called Live CD. The Live CD allows the user to run the whole operating system right from the CD without altering or disturbing the system. The Live CD can be used to try and test the system and is a great option for the new users to see if they can get a hang of Linux and test various distros to see which one suits them the best.
The availability of so many distros may some time overwhelm a new user. But, this is the beauty of Linux, Freedom and Choice. Linux is like ice-cream, so many flavors to pick from, and the best thing is they are all free to try and use.
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