Getting a Computer That Runs Linux
If you’re tired of paying for the latest version of Windows or Mac OS, or you need a powerful computer for data science, consider getting one that runs linux. Linux is an open source operating system that can run on a variety of computer hardware, including desktops, laptops and servers. A popular choice for business and home users alike, linux is reliable, safe and flexible.
Originally constructed in 1991 by Linus Torvalds, Linux is a free and open-source operating system that manages hardware resources, launches applications and provides a graphical interface. It’s used in a wide range of devices, from cell phones to supercomputers and mainframes. Its flexibility and scalable architecture make it a great choice for enterprises, as well as individuals looking to customize their desktops and mobile devices.
In addition to the core operating system, a Linux installation includes a collection of programs and utilities that provide a rich feature set. These include software development tools such as git for distributed source control and vim and emacs for text editing; compilers and interpreters for many programming languages; and the kernel, which manages hardware and other resources. Linux’s open-source nature also means that it can be modified and freely redistributed.
Most Linux distributions (also called “distros”) offer what’s known as a live distribution, which allows you to test the software without making any permanent changes to your machine. This is a handy way to try out an operating system before committing to it, and some distros let you install the software directly from a USB or CD drive.
Using the command line interface, a Linux user can perform basic tasks with commands like ls to list directories, cd to change directory paths and pwd to display current username. More advanced features allow you to manage file activities with cp, mv and rm, and the system can be monitored using commands such as df to assess disk space usage and top for system processes.
A number of Linux-based software products are available, including word processors, photo and video editors, email clients and more. Often, software creators have created versions of their programs for both Linux and other platforms. This flexibility makes linux a good choice for those who need to use specific programs on multiple systems.
While linux offers an impressive array of benefits, there are some drawbacks. Proprietary software is sometimes incompatible with a Linux desktop, and there may be limited peripheral hardware support for the operating system. In addition, Linux’s underlying architecture can be difficult to navigate for newcomers. Despite these challenges, the operating system remains a major player in computing and is poised for continued evolution. For a more secure experience, consider purchasing a PC that is professionally-upgraded and preloaded with a stable Linux distro. ME2, a computer reseller from Oregon, offers a Dell OptiPlex 3090 Desktop that is compatible with many different Linux distributions and comes with a one-year warranty. The company also offers a number of other customizable computers, from business desktops to gaming machines.
