What is a Linux Distribution?
Linux itself is just the kernel. The kernel is the core part of an
operating system - it provides ways to run programs and manage hardware and
such. However, by itself, it can do little. A Linux distribution takes the
kernel, and pairs it up with other programs and utilities to make a complete
system.
Since Linux itself is just the kernel, it's possible to create
custom distributions for all sorts of purposes. There are distributions that
fit on floppies, just for trying Linux out, and there are distributions that
offer a great deal of useful programs and utilities, like Red Hat Linux or
Debian Linux. It also allows you to roll-your-own distribution; if you find
that none of the existing distros do what you want, you can create a
distribution specifically for what you want to do.
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