the great software blog

Pavs reminds us and correctly defines Linux as a kernel, but suggests we need the flexibility to use the word to describe a general distribution of Linux also. I agree, and with that, starting in 2009, let’s decree that “Linux” connotes the larger OS; that is, distribution (or distro), and that when one is talking only about the Linux kernel, one simply says Linux kernel.

To be more specific, The Free Software Foundation use the more proper term, GNU/Linux, to describe a general distribution that uses Linux. That’s even better.

So let’s be clear, from general to specific:

1. Linux. Effectively the operating system you would use on your computer, which includes a distribution, and used in the same general way that one describes Windows and Mac;
2. GNU/Linux. The preferred and more accurate term for the Linux OS and all the tools that surround it, including a distribution. You won’t go wrong using this to designate an unnamed distro;
3. Linux kernel. From now on, if you’re going to refer specifically to the kernel, then let’s specify it.

There are far more people using “Linux” than there are kernel developers. So let’s make it easy on ourselves.
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*This post was carried over from the old blog, from which most of its content was archived.