In the vast majority of cases, Linux applications are compatible with all distributions of Linux, which accounts for the aphorism "Linux is Linux is Linux." When a new Linux kernel is released, it is put up on the main Linux kernel site, www.kernel.org. The distribution companies then package it and provide it as an update on their Web sites. Distribution vendors take the kernel as is, with all changes and fixes that are contributed by members of the development community. Each distribution company releases new distributions about twice a year.

The Open Source development model discourages distribution vendors from forking the Linux code base into incompatible code streams. The GPL specifies that additions, modifications, and extensions to Linux are distributed in source code form whenever executables are made available. If a distribution company were to acquire development expertise and attempt to build unique features into Linux, its innovations would be released back to the development community. Truly valuable changes would then be included in the next release of Linux and/or freely adopted by other distribution vendors, eliminating any competitive advantage.

Currently, the vast majority of fixes, patches, and additions to Linux are contributed by independent developers. Each one of these modifications improves the stability and functionality of Linux. Competitive pressures mean that Linux distribution vendors really have no choice as to which patches and fixes are included in their upcoming versions. Rather, the decision is made for them by the Linux project maintainers, who have final say over what goes into a new Linux release. Therefore, improvements and bug fixes developed and submitted by companies such as Linuxcare are included in Linux releases based on technical merit alone.