Getting Started With Linux
The linux operating system (OS) is one of the most popular and widely used systems in the world. It was created by Linus Torvalds in 1991 and has since become a stable, secure, and efficient platform that is utilized in a variety of different things, from laptops and tablets to big supercomputers. It is also known for being flexible and customizable, allowing users to tailor it to fit their unique needs.
A linux OS is made up of a kernel and various software packages, or “distributions,” that contain applications for a specific purpose. Unlike proprietary OSes such as Windows and macOS, a Linux distribution is typically free to use, although some suppliers charge for commercial support and tools that facilitate higher-volume deployments. Regardless of cost, many linux providers offer extensive community support that provides help and assistance to users.
Linux is an open-source OS, meaning that its source code is freely available to all users and developers. This encourages a large, global ecosystem of contributors to continue improving the Linux experience and making it a valuable tool for the modern world. Its stability and security have made it a favorite for server environments, and it is increasingly being utilized as the preferred OS for embedded devices such as routers and IoT machines.
As such, it is important for new users to understand basic Linux commands. These can be used to perform a wide range of tasks, from managing files and folders to retrieving system information. Learning these basics can help beginners get started with the OS more efficiently and build a foundation for exploring additional features in the future.
The first step in using a Linux-based operating system is choosing a distribution and installing it. Once the installation is complete, you can begin using it by logging in and selecting a desktop environment. Desktop environments are graphical user interfaces that control how a Linux computer is used by users. They include software for managing files and folders, text editing, and running a command-line session.
Most Linux operating systems come with a set of programs that can be used for both servers and desktop computers, but more programs can be added after installation. Many of these are graphical, requiring a GUI rather than a command line, and they can be installed through a package manager that pulls from a set of open-source software libraries.
Once you are comfortable with these basic tasks, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the linux filesystem and learn how to navigate directories and files like a Linux spider monkey. Then, you can begin experimenting with more advanced Linux commands that are used for more complex tasks. For example, you can learn about cron jobs, schedulers, and other advanced Linux commands that will be useful for automating repetitive or time-consuming tasks. You can also find tutorials and videos that provide step-by-step instructions for learning specific Linux commands. With the right knowledge, you can be well on your way to becoming a Linux master!
