Terms/Dictionary
Linux Dictionary
This page will list some terms commonly used into the Linux world and their meaning to the average user.
Distro = Distribution. This is the version or type of Linux you are using. In general it is safe to say that all version of Linux are "Linux". In that, most of the various distros will have similiar program (package) selections and are compatible with eachother.
Packages = Programs. Programs in Linux are referred to as "packages". These packages can be a single purpose program or a set of program to provide a certain set of functions.
Package Manger = The program organizer. A package manager is perhaps the most important feature that determines wether or not that distro is right for you. Package managers can pull from multiple program resources or from a single resource. This greatly affects the flexibility and the complexity of package installation, updating, and maintaince.
Repositories (Repos) = Program Libraries. Repostories are sites, usually found on the internet, where packages are storied for comsumption by the Linux users. These repositories will vary from distro to distro. Some distros will use multiple repositories, which may be maintained by various groups or companies, while other distros may pull from a few (or one) repositories to help simplify the package management for the end user.


