What do you call a copy of the operating system binaries and configuration files necessary to boot a Linux system?

The term used to describe a copy of the operating system binaries and configuration files necessary to boot a Linux system is a system image. This is essentially a collection of all the files that are required to run the operating system, including the core binaries, libraries, and necessary configurations. A system image allows you to replicate the operating system environment onto another system or restore it in case of failure, ensuring a consistent recovery process.

While the other terms such as boot image, backup image, and clone image may seem related, they have distinct meanings. A boot image typically refers to the minimal set of files necessary to initiate the boot process but might not encompass all system configurations and binaries. A backup image encompasses a wider scope, often including user data and application files, rather than specifically focusing on the system binaries and configurations. A clone image usually refers to an exact, bit-for-bit copy of a system, which can include the operating system and data but is not exclusively focused on the essential files needed for booting. Thus, referring to the complete set necessary to boot a Linux system is best described as a system image.