VxWorks is a type of real-time OS that can be used by people when you want to do embedded systems. Linux, on the other hand, is a type of OS that can be used for servers and also for desktops.
Take note that VxWorks again is something that can be used in real-time. Linux is one of the known software types for software collaboration.
Some people say that you will use VxWorks when you would like to do hard time operations that you know that you cannot do with the usual type of software that you may use. There is a type of Linux that can also be used in real-time called RTLinux.
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.