What is the Difference?

[rktompsett]

What is the difference between Linux, SuSE, Ubuntu (never heard of Ubuntu until just recently), and Sun's Microsystem Solaris? I have both SuSE 10.1, and Solaris 10. I installed SuSE 10.1 (Gnome). Are they all compatable with each other? I have a lot to learn about Linux, as I installed it to my 2nd hard drive, so as to still have access to my system with Microsoft XP. I will eventually dump Windows when I feel comfortable with Linux.

[techieMoe]

What is the difference between Linux, SuSE, Ubuntu (never heard of Ubuntu until just recently), and Sun's Microsystem Solaris?

Ever heard that Sesame Street song, "One of these things is not like the other?" The OS in your list that is very different is Sun's Solaris. Solaris is a version of UNIX that is directly-descended from System V UNIX. Programs written for Solaris are completely incompatible with any other OS including Linux, to the best of my knowledge.

The others you mentioned (Ubuntu, SuSE) are just different flavors of the Linux operating system. Linux is a kernel that's usually shipped along with a collection of software (called a distribution).

You can think of it like cars: they're all "cars," but a Honda is slightly different than a Ford or a Chevrolet. In that metaphor, Solaris would be a steam locomotive. Completely different line of thinking.

I have both SuSE 10.1, and Solaris 10. I installed SuSE 10.1 (Gnome). Are they all compatable with each other?

Most programs will run in either SuSE or Ubuntu if they are written for Linux, but not Solaris.

[smolloy]

You can think of it like cars: they're all "cars," but a Honda is slightly different than a Ford or a Chevrolet. In that metaphor, Solaris would be a steam locomotive. Completely different line of thinking.

SuSE is a Hummer (big, bulky, and comes with absolutely everything)
Fedora is a Ford Excursion (big, and bulky, but not quite as obnoxious as a Hummer)
Ubuntu is a Honda Accord (works well, pretty smooth, conservative, but not wonderfully exciting)
Slackware is a Dodge Charger (not for the weak of heart, customisable, and fast as all hell)
Debian is a Model T (famous, but old and creaky)
Gentoo is..... A train wreck?

(Don't take this list too seriously -- just having a bit of fun)

[scrarfussi]

nice one love that analogy

[rktompsett]

I certainly enjoy that analogy myself. That does let me see the difference. I'm glad I went with the SuSE install, as apposed to Solaris.

Thanks for your help

[scrarfussi]

You are really lucky i've been trying to install solaris for months without any luck