Linux Basics Glossary

Key terms to help you understand the world of Linux distributions.

Distribution (Distro)

A complete operating system built around the Linux kernel. A distro bundles the kernel with other software like system tools, utilities, and a graphical user interface to provide a ready-to-use OS.

Desktop Environment (DE)

The graphical user interface (GUI) on a Linux system. It provides the desktop, icons, windows, panels, and widgets. Popular examples include GNOME, KDE Plasma, XFCE, and Cinnamon, each offering a different look, feel, and workflow.

Base

The core foundation upon which a distribution is built. For example, Ubuntu is built on the 'Debian' base, inheriting its package management system (APT) and core philosophies. Other major bases include Arch and Fedora.

Package Manager

A tool that automates the process of installing, updating, configuring, and removing software packages. Each distro base has its own primary package manager, like APT for Debian/Ubuntu, Pacman for Arch, and DNF for Fedora.

Rolling vs. Point Release

A 'Point Release' model (like Ubuntu) has scheduled major versions (e.g., 22.04, 24.04). A 'Rolling Release' model (like Arch Linux) has no versions; instead, it is continuously updated. This provides the latest software but can sometimes be less stable.

Kernel

The core of the operating system. The Linux kernel manages the system's resources, acting as the central communicator between the hardware (CPU, memory, devices) and the software running on the computer.