Distribution

Definition - What does Distribution mean?

Distribution (distro) is a process of delivering software from a developer to the end user. Software distribution ranges from OS server distribution to interpreter distribution.

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Techopedia explains Distribution

Software is distributed in bundles containing required files, instructions, configuration settings and management settings used to deploy a system application.

There are four types of bundles, as follows:

Directive bundle: Performs multiple system actions.
File bundle: Copies or installs system files.
Imaging bundle: Performs actions prior to an OS boot.
Windows bundle: Created for distributing Microsoft Windows software patch (MSP) packages, Microsoft Windows Installer (MSI) packages or other Windows based applications to Windows systems.

A bundle is assigned to a system or users. When a bundle is assigned to a user, it is available for access by all users, regardless of user system. When a bundle is assigned to a system, it is accessible to all users that log into the assigned system.

The distribution phase is followed by unpacking and installation, and package management tools are available for software package installation.