The Advantages of Installing Linux on Your Computer
The Linux kernel manages the hardware resources of your computer. It is a fundamental component of a Linux system and without it the rest of the OS can’t function properly. Linux evolved from UNIX but it has grown to include features that make it a unique operating system in its own right. It runs on computers ranging from mobile phones to supercomputers.
The open-source philosophy that drives linux creates a community of developers that contributes to the development and maintenance of the entire operating system. This results in a highly flexible and robust operating system that is used on millions of devices worldwide. Almost all web servers are powered by linux, and it is used in a wide variety of applications from desktops to embedded systems.
Linux offers an incredibly large selection of software that can be customized to meet your specific needs. This includes graphical user interfaces and applications, file management tools, configuration utilities, media players, and so on. Many of these programs are developed in a free software environment and are distributed under the GNU General Public License, which allows you to modify and distribute them. Some of the most popular Linux-based programs are Apache, Firefox, LibreOffice, and GIMP.
One of the key advantages of Linux is its stability, which makes it perfect for mission-critical applications. This is because Linux uses a unified memory model, enabling the kernel and the user space to isolate each other from errors. Additionally, the kernel is preemptive, which means that it can control multiple processes at once.
It also supports symmetrical multiprocessor (SMP) architectures. This feature allows it to run more efficiently on multiprocessor machines. Another benefit is its scalability, which allows it to grow with your needs. The Linux kernel is able to dynamically load and unload kernel code on demand, which allows it to adapt quickly to changing conditions.
In addition, Linux has excellent security features. Its strong permissions system makes it harder for malicious software to make big changes to your system. In addition, it has an incremental system restore feature that can roll back the system to a previous working state.
Installing Linux is a simple process that requires only basic computer skills. First, select a distribution that suits your needs. If you have no experience with Linux, consider a newbie-friendly distribution like Linux Mint, Ubuntu (Figure 3), or Elementary OS. If you have above-average computer skills, try a more advanced distribution such as Debian or Fedora. And if you’re truly adventurous, try a distribution that lets you build your own custom Linux installation, such as Gentoo or Linux from Scratch.
