The Basics of Linux
The Linux operating system (OS) is one of the most stable, reliable systems on the planet. It is known for being rock solid and highly efficient, which makes it popular in servers and other critical systems where downtime can be costly. It is also known for its flexibility, allowing users to choose from a wide range of desktop environments, software packages and system configurations. This means that each user can tailor the OS to meet their specific needs.
Unlike the proprietary OSes that come with most computers, Linux is completely free to use. This allows anyone to install it on as many computers as they like without having to worry about paying licensing fees. It also comes with thousands of high quality applications that are easy to find and install, including the latest versions of popular programs. These apps are available for desktop environments and other Linux-based systems, such as NASes, VMs, and even the Raspberry Pi.
The kernel is the heart of a Linux system. It manages all system input and output, handles memory, and controls processes. It is the basis for all other components of the OS, including graphical workstations, network servers, office productivity applications, and even home entertainment PCs. The kernel can be compiled with a wide variety of options to customize it for different purposes, and it can include device or file system drivers that are not available for standard distributions.
To make the most of a Linux system, it must be configured with a desktop environment and other software applications. A desktop environment is a set of applications and tools that provide the graphical user interface for users to interact with the system. It typically includes a windowing system, such as the X Window System used by other graphical operating systems, and allows the system to be controlled through the keyboard, mouse, and other devices attached to the computer.
Other types of applications can be loaded onto a Linux system through a package manager, which is similar to an app store. Most modern distributions of Linux offer this type of tool, which simplifies application installation and maintenance by allowing users to search for and find what they need from a single centralized location.
While the Linux operating system is complex, it is easy to learn and can be adapted to fit almost any computer system. If you are interested in learning more about it, start with a newbie-friendly distribution such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Elementary OS. If you are a power user, however, you may prefer to go with a more advanced distribution such as Debian or Fedora. Regardless of what you decide, you should always back up your data before installing any OS. If you do not, you could be putting your entire computer at risk for ransomware and other malware attacks. To avoid this, you can install a separate backup program that will keep your files safe. This will not only protect your personal information, but it can save you money as well.
