In this tutorial by Analog Devices, you can learn more about the impact voltage references provide, the types of voltage references available, and how to seek the right kind of voltage reference for your design approach.
Voltage references and linear regulators have much in common. In fact, the latter could be functionally described as a reference circuit, but with greater current (or power) output. Accordingly, almost all of the specifications of the two circuit types have great commonality (even though the performance of references is usually tighter with regard to drift, accuracy, etc.) In many cases today, the support circuitry is included in the converter package. This is advantageous to the designer since it simplifies the design process and guarantees performance of the system.