Linux, a free kernel and a free operating system

We're hearing more and more about Linux, even well beyond the circle of computer specialists. Linux is really just the kernel of the operating system (the part that interacts with the hardware), but its success has made it a model for all open-source software. This is why the term "Linux system" is often used to designate any computer running this kernel, even though it represents only a tiny fraction of the software installed on it.

Each of these open-source software products has its own community. So, if you compare several software products in parallel, you'll discover different development cycles and tools, as well as different levels of maturity. Linux distributions were born in response to this diversity: their role is to support the user. They generally provide an installer (for setting up the operating system on a blank computer), a collection of ready-to-use software, security updates and support services. Numerous distributions exist, each with its own objectives.

This article gives an overview of the Linux ecosystem, from the kernel to the distributions and the main software. In particular, it describes the Debian GNU/Linux distribution. The generic basics should enable you to feel at ease with the concepts that will be found in any Linux system. The more detailed explanations of Debian allow you to install a working system and test various software packages.