GNULinux

GNULinux is a term used to describe systems that combine the Linux kernel with the GNU project’s userland and tools. It reflects debates about attribution in free software, and many writers advocate separating the kernel from the userland. The phrase is less common than GNU/Linux, but some communities use GNULinux to emphasize GNU components.

Origin and naming: The GNU Project, launched in 1983 by Richard Stallman, aimed to create a complete free software operating system. The Linux kernel, released in 1991 by Linus Torvalds, provides the kernel. Together they form what many refer to as GNU/Linux. Some writers and advocates prefer GNULinux as an alternative name to highlight GNU’s contribution, while others use Linux or GNU/Linux interchangeably.

Composition: A GNULinux system combines the Linux kernel with GNU userland tools such as the C library, core utilities, shells, and programming environments. Distributions package these components with a broad array of additional software, desktop environments, and system services, creating a full operating system suitable for servers, desktops, and embedded devices.

Licensing and philosophy: The GNU project emphasizes software freedom and copyleft licensing. The Linux kernel is released under the GNU General Public License version 2, while much of the userland uses GPL and other free licenses. The combined system is widely associated with the free software and open source movements.

Distributions: Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch Linux, and many others deploy GNULinux-style systems. While distribution names vary and may adopt different package managers and defaults, they share the same core model: a Linux kernel with GNU userland and additional free or open source software.

Naming and usage debates: Advocates of GNULinux stress giving credit to the GNU Project; others argue that Linux is sufficient shorthand. The practical effect is that most users depend on a single kernel with GNU tools, regardless of terminology.