Linux distribution is a huge and complex operating system, based on the above things and some tools and software. Although the kernel is the same, the added parts are different, which constitute different distribution versions.
Linux itself refers to an operating system kernel, and only the kernel cannot be used directly. The operating system we need and can use is a collection of kernel and a number of useful programs, which is the Linux distribution.
Ubuntu is one of them. RedHat is another distribution of Linux.
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Main characteristics of Linux system
1, basic idea
The basic idea of Linux has two points: first, everything is a file; Second, every software has a clear purpose. The first is that everything in the system boils down to one file, including commands, hardware and software devices, operating systems, processes and so on. For the operating system kernel, they are all regarded as files with their own characteristics or types. As for saying that Linux is based on Unix, it is largely because their basic ideas are very similar.
Linux is a free operating system, users can get it through the network or other channels for free, and can modify its source code at will. This is beyond the reach of other operating systems. Because of this, countless programmers from all over the world have participated in the modification and writing of Linux, and programmers can modify it according to their own interests and inspiration, which makes Linux absorb the essence of countless programmers and grow continuously.
3. Fully compatible with POSIX 1.0 standard.
This makes it possible to run common DOS and Windows programs under Linux through corresponding simulators. This laid the foundation for users to switch from Windows to Linux. When many users consider using Linux, they are thinking about whether the common programs under Windows can run normally, which dispels their doubts. ?
4, multi-user, multi-task
Linux supports multi-users, and each user has his own special rights to his own file device, which ensures that each user does not affect each other. Multi-tasking is one of the most important features of computers. Linux allows multiple programs to run independently at the same time.
5. Good interface
Linux has both a character interface and a graphical interface. In the character interface, users can input corresponding instructions through the keyboard to operate. At the same time, it also provides an X-Window system similar to Windows graphical interface, which users can operate with the mouse. In the X-Window environment, similar to Windows, it can be said that it is a Linux version of Windows.
6. Support multiple platforms
Linux can run on a variety of hardware platforms, such as platforms with x86, 680x0, SPARC, Alpha and other processors. In addition, Linux is an embedded operating system, which can run on PDA, set-top box or game machine. The Linux kernel released in June 20065438+0 has been able to fully support Intel? 64-bit chip architecture. Linux also supports multiprocessor technology. Multiple processors work at the same time, which greatly improves the system performance.
References:
Baidu Encyclopedia -linux Edition