What is a Linux distribution?
Linux is the core of the system (the kernel). A distribution, or distro, bundles that kernel with a desktop, apps and an installer into something you can use.
Why so many?
Different groups build for different goals: simplicity, stability, speed, gaming, security or tiny hardware. You pick the one that matches your needs.
Families
- Debian family: Debian, Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Zorin OS.
- Red Hat family: Fedora.
- Independent systems such as Arch and Gentoo.
Desktop environments
The look and feel comes from the desktop: GNOME, KDE Plasma, Cinnamon, Xfce and others. Many distributions offer several. Compare in choosing a Linux distribution.