Linux Distributions
Hi,
[I may be replying to a troll posting - but...]
Linux-based operating systems are known as 'distributions' (or 'distros'). They consist of the core operating system kernel ('Linux'), one or more desktop environments (eg 'GNOME', 'KDE'), development tools, games etc. The common theme running across all distros is that they all run atop the Linux kernel (although many other components would be common as well).
*Anyone*, including yourself can legally roll-out such a distribution. As a result there are several commercial as well as non-commercial distros available - each having its own fan following. Which distro is best for you depends upon what you want to do with it - there is no 'one size fits all' distro - though some vendors aim for that too...
As far as the frequency of releases is concerned, Linux (and free software in general) follows a philosphy of 'release early and release often'). However, just because a new version of your distribution is available does not mean you have to rush out and install it. Unless there's a compelling reason - security fixes, incredible new features - you may choose to stick to an older version. This is similar to people using Windows 98, even though XP is available...
Hope this helps,
Yogesh
