Linux

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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Some basic questions about Linux (sh.itjust.works)

submitted 1 week ago by akilou@sh.itjust.works to c/linux@lemmy.ml

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Can someone point me to a helpful beginners resource explaining some Linux basics? Like what is the difference between "distro", which is what, like Ubuntu, fedora, Debian (? Or is that a category of distro?) And desktop environment which is what, KDE, Lubuntu, gnome? Like I don't even know I have these categories right let alone understand why I'd pick one over another and what practical effects it will have- which apps will I/won't I be able to install, etc...

I'm not expecting anyone to answer these questions for me, but if you could point me to something already written, I'd appreciate it.

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[–] cyborganism@lemmy.ca 3 points 1 week ago

Linux is the kernel, the core of the system.

A distribution is a collection of software that is provided with the kernel, usually with it's own software package management system. Distributions are also supported and maintained by organizations which create their own tools for that distribution and also make decisions on what to distribute it with.

For example, Fedora is maintained and supported by the company RedHat which implemented their own tools and packaging system to use Linux. Debian is the same but with a community.

Desktop environments are that it says. You have several available in Linux. The two major ones being KDE and GNOME. They provide a desktop experience with their own paradigms. Just like the MacOS and Windows have their own desktop environments. They're basically graphical shells to allow users to use the system.