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Program (for example GRUB) which starts OS. Allows (if configured to do so) to choose OS to boot (as
long as systems are installed in same boot mode - Legacy (BIOS) or UEFI).
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A set of programs selected to provide common graphical user interface (GUI) to help user use their
computer (desktop, file/web browser, media players). Examples:
KDE Plasma
GNOME
XFCE
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Linux started without changing content of hard disk, for example from installation media. Any changes
are typically lost on power loss. Allows users to correct some problems or experiment and check hardware
compatibility before installing specific distribution.
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Release which offers longer period of feature and security updates. Preferable over testing and normal
term support releases.
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Main program which acts as a medium between hardware and user.
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A program compiled for use on specific environment (distributions' maintainers prepare packages ready to
be used on their distribution).