Some of the Most Popular Distributions
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Linux is an operating system platform based around the linux kernel. Despite distributions sharing many similarities between them, there are distinct versions of Linux that have different core components and take different approaches to creating a more usable operating system. These different versions of Linux are known as "distributions" and are maintained by different groups that manage and distribute core components of the operating system. Which distribution someone may choose can vary widely for reasons of core functionality, trust in the project maintainers, or licensing structures.
There are many linux distributions but most distributions tend to be based off of an upstream distribution. For example, Ubuntu is one of the most popular distributions of Linux and it is based on and builds upon the Debian distribution. There are many distributions that, likewise, are based on Ubuntu. Distributions make changes to core functionality of the operating system such as package management software, default repository servers, security policies, init systems, and more. Although the changes may seem subtle for many use cases, choosing a distribution for key distinguishing features may have drastic impacts on software build availability and how system administration is carried out.
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