VxWorks is mostly regarded as a real-time operating system, specifically made for embedded applications. Applications that use VxWorks will be able to process data as it comes without any delay. It is a proprietary operating system that can only be gotten by paying for it. The reason for this is because it is designed and distributed by a single company.
On the other hand, Linux is also an operating system that is very similar in design when you compare it with UNIX. Unlike VxWorks, Linux is a free and open-source operating system. Unlike VxWorks, Linux can be modified and redistributed.
For this reason, the distribution of Linux is not limited to a company as there are thousands of companies and so many individuals that are distributing it. Unlike VxWorks that is used mainly for embedded applications, Linux is available in different formats so it can easily work on desktops as well as on servers.