The Benefits of Running Linux on Your Computer

A free and open source operating system, linux is used on desktop computers, servers, mobile devices and embedded systems around the world. It powers most of the Internet and many of its top 500 fastest supercomputers. It’s also used in Android phones and tablets, Chromebooks, Roku streaming media players and refrigerators, and on some smart TVs.

As one of the oldest and most mature of all operating systems, linux offers the stability and reliability that power users demand from their computer software. It’s a very secure platform that can be configured to meet the needs of almost any user from home users to large enterprises and governments.

Linux’s popularity is largely due to the fact that it is incredibly versatile and customizable. A wide range of applications are available for the platform, including word processors, spreadsheet programs, photo and video editors, music composition and editing tools, and even games. Many of these software titles are offered by their creators in a Linux version, and with the rise of file formats like Snap, Flatpak, and AppImage, more proprietary apps are making their way onto Linux as well.

There are many different distributions of linux, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, if you’re a newbie or have very limited computing knowledge, you might want to try an easy-to-use option like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Deepin. For those with more advanced technical skills, it’s possible to customize your linux setup by building and compiling your own operating system from scratch.

Another important aspect of linux is its hardware layer, which includes the physical components of a computer system like the RAM (random access memory), hard disk drive, and Central Processing Unit (CPU). This layer enables the kernel and other components to communicate with the hardware, and ensures that all software is functioning properly. The underlying Linux kernel and system libraries are often modified to support the latest hardware, allowing for better performance.

Linux is also known for its high security and dependability. Unlike Windows and macOS, which are both susceptible to ransomware and malware, and need regular updates, Linux is far less vulnerable to these attacks. It’s not uncommon for a Linux server to remain operational for years without the need for an update.

Despite being free to use, there are some costs associated with running Linux. For one, there are licensing fees for commercial software, and many Linux distributors offer system support for a fee. However, many IT organizations have found that by switching from a commercial OS to Linux, they can save money over time.

The easiest and most straightforward way to test out linux is by using a live distribution. Many distributions can be run from a DVD or USB drive, and this method allows you to try the operating system without installing it on your computer. Once you’ve determined that you like it, most distributions will guide you through the simple process of installation.

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