What is Linux and what are the most popular distributions?

When we talk about operating systems today, most users first think of “Windows” or “macOS.” However, behind these commercial giants lies the invisible backbone of the world – Linux. This is the operating system that powers almost all of the world’s supercomputers, a large portion of internet servers, Android phones, and even NASA’s Mars rovers. In 2026, with the increasing need for privacy and the expansion of cloud computing, Linux has become more relevant than ever.

We will further explore what makes up the Linux ecosystem, how it technically differs from its competitors, and which distributions are worth choosing based on your needs.

1. What is Linux really?

First, we need to dispel a common myth: Linux is not a complete operating system by itself. Technically, it is a kernel.

Kernel

The kernel is the lowest level of software that acts as a mediator between the computer‘s hardware and user applications. It manages the CPU time, RAM, and device drivers. In 1991, Finnish student Linus Torvalds created this kernel as a hobby project, but due to its open-source model, it has become the largest collaborative project in human history.

The GNU/Linux Connection

What we refer to as the “Linux” operating system is usually a combination of GNU and Linux. The GNU project provided system tools (compilers, libraries, shells), while Linux provided the kernel. Together, they form a functioning ecosystem.

2. Why choose Linux?

Academic literature (e.g., S. Raymond, 1999, “The Cathedral and the Bazaar”) emphasizes that the success of Linux is due to its flexibility and security.

• Open Source: Anyone can see the code, modify it, and distribute it. This helps ensure that there are no backdoors or hidden tracking in the system.
• Security: Due to a strict user rights management system (root access) and quick community bug fixes, Linux is highly resistant to viruses.
• Customization: You can change everything – from the graphical interface to the kernel parameters themselves.
• Performance: The system does not use resources for unnecessary background processes, so even an old laptop with Linux can run extremely fast.

3. What are distributions (Distros)?

Since Linux is an open-source system, anyone can take the kernel, add a graphical environment, a package manager, and create their own version. These versions are called distributions. Each has its own philosophy, target audience, and update cycle.

Main components of a distribution:

• Package Manager: A tool that manages software installation (e.g., apt, dnf, pacman).
• Desktop Environment (DE): The graphical interface (e.g., GNOME, KDE Plasma, XFCE).
• Display Server: A protocol that manages video rendering (e.g., Wayland or the older X11).

4. Most popular Linux distributions in 2026

Here is an overview of the main players, categorized by user needs:

A. For beginners and everyday use

B. For advanced users and professionals

• Fedora: A project backed by Red Hat that continuously implements the latest technologies. It is a “workhorse” for programmers who want to use the latest kernel and applications.
• Debian: Known as the “universal operating system.” It is famous for its conservatism – only thoroughly tested and stable software is included. Most other distributions (including Ubuntu) are built on Debian.
• Arch Linux: Designed for those who want to build the system themselves from scratch. It uses a Rolling Release model – the system is continuously updated, and there is no need to reinstall new versions. Its motto is KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid).

C. Specialized distributions

• Kali Linux: The standard for cybersecurity professionals. It includes hundreds of tools for penetration testing.
• Tails: An operating system focused on maximum anonymity. All traffic is routed through the Tor network, and no traces are left when the computer is turned off.

5. Technical context: File systems and virtualization

At an academic level, Linux is valued for its ability to manage complex file systems, such as Btrfs or ZFS, which ensure data integrity through a copy-on-write mechanism.

It is also impossible to talk about modern Linux without mentioning containerization. Technologies like Docker and Kubernetes were born thanks to the features of the Linux kernel (e.g., namespaces and cgroups). This allows for the isolation of application processes, ensuring incredible server performance and scalability.

6. How to choose?

The choice depends on your goals:

• If you just want to browse the internet and work: Choose Linux Mint or Ubuntu.
• If you are a programmer: Fedora or Ubuntu LTS (Long Term Support) will provide stability and the necessary tools.
• If you want to learn how operating systems work: Install Arch Linux by following their official Wiki.
• If you are reviving an old computer: Try Lubuntu or antiX.

Sources and recommended literature:

• Torvalds, L., & Diamond, D. (2001). Just for Fun: The Story of an Accidental Revolutionary. HarperCollins.
• Raymond, E. S. (1999). The Cathedral and the Bazaar: Musings on Linux and Open Source by an Accidental Revolutionary. O’Reilly Media. (Scientific treatise on the economic and social benefits of open source).
• Shotts, W. (2019). The Linux Command Line: A Complete Introduction. No Starch Press.
• Love, R. (2010). Linux Kernel Development. Addison-Wesley Professional. (Google Scholar – research on kernel architecture).
• DistroWatch (2026). Distribution Rankings and Trends. (Statistical overview).
• IEEE Xplore / Google Scholar (2025). Comparative analysis of Linux distributions in edge computing and server environments.
• 7. Linux Foundation (2026). Annual Report on Open Source Development.