9.1. Distribution considerations

The fact that there are several distributions gives you options. The distributions include Open Source packages; it is possible to modify, exchange one distribution for another, and upgrade at your own pace.

How do you choose a distribution? You may already have criteria for selection. In this section, we present some criteria that may be of use. We have found that companies tend to consider the amount of modification they need to make in order for a distribution to fit their needs. The amount of modification needed depends on how well the base distribution fills your needs, what device drivers it comes with, and so forth.

The Linux distributions for the mainframe all come with the unique extra functions for mainframe ...

Get Linux® on the Mainframe now with the O’Reilly learning platform.

O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.