What Is Linux?
linux is an open-source operating system that’s free to download, use and modify. It’s a good choice for beginner computer users who want to learn how to code and build their own programs, but it can also be a powerful tool for IT professionals and businesses looking to reduce costs by avoiding licensing fees associated with commercial operating systems like Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS.
The main component of a Linux operating system is the kernel, which manages input and output. The kernel also allocates memory, processor time and other resources to the system’s processes and devices. This is often done through a combination of kernel version, configuration options and system calls. The kernel is loaded and booted during the initial installation process, after which it can begin to interact with other parts of the operating system.
A kernel can contain a large number of components. For example, some distributions include network, printer and USB device drivers. Others have more specialized support for specific hardware or applications. Some also have a more user-friendly interface, known as a desktop environment.
It is also possible to customize and develop a distribution to meet a particular need. Some examples are Kali Linux, a digital forensics and penetration testing Linux distribution derived from Ubuntu; Backox, a security and network analysis tool for ethical hacking; and OpenELEC, which implements the media center software Kodi for home theatre PCs (HTPC).
One of the most important features of linux is its freedom to use. You can study how the software works, modify it to make it do what you need, and redistribute copies of your modifications to others. These tenets are what make Linux an operating system “by the people, for the people.”
Unlike other operating systems, linux is open source and can be downloaded without paying any licensing fees to companies who provide support for Linux-based products. The system’s source code is released under the GNU General Public License, which means that anyone can redistribute it as long as they follow the licensing terms.
There are dozens of different distributions, or versions of Linux, available for download from a variety of sources. These range from simple graphical Linux systems to highly customized, high-performance server versions for high-speed networks.
The majority of distributions include thousands of applications. These can be used for a wide range of tasks, including file management, networking and text editing. Some distributions even provide app stores that simplify application installation and provide centralized control of the software installed on your Linux machine.
Another feature of Linux is its command-line interface (CLI), which uses text-based commands and user-interface controls. The CLI is used by most low-level Linux components, and is especially suited for automation of repetitive tasks.
Many users use a desktop environment, which provides a more traditional Windows or macOS interface that lets you interact with files and folders. Some distributions include a variety of desktop environments, such as X Window System, KDE and GNOME. These systems are similar to Windows and macOS, but have their own unique look and feel.
