Ubuntu® Linux® Secrets

Chapter 1. What is Ubuntu?

Secrets in This Chapter

• The Linux Kernel

• The GNU Utilities

• The Linux Desktop Environments

• Linux Distributions

• Ubuntu Linux

One of the most confusing features of Linux is the concept of a distribution. Many novice Linux users get confused about what a distribution is and why there are so many of them.

Before diving into the world of Ubuntu, it often helps to have an understanding of what Linux is and how it relates to Ubuntu. This will help you understand where Ubuntu came from, and you'll have a better idea of which flavor of Ubuntu is right for you. With that in mind, this chapter explains what Linux and Linux distributions are, then it explains the pieces that specifically make up the Ubuntu Linux distribution. It finishes by walking through different Ubuntu distributions and discussing what each provides.

What Is Linux?

If Ubuntu is your first experience with Linux, you may be confused about why there are so many different versions of it. I'm sure you have heard various terms such as "distribution," "LiveCD," and "GNU" when looking at Linux packages—and have been confused.

Trying to wade through the world of Linux for the first time can be a tricky experience. Even for experienced Linux users, trying to figure out the features that distinguish different distributions can be tricky. This section walks through exactly what Linux is and describes each of its components.

For starters, there are four main parts of a Linux system:

• The Linux kernel

• The GNU utilities

• Windows ...