What is Linux?

The term linux is used to refer to a kernel and a complete operating system that uses this kernel to run other software. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with Unix, which also uses the same kernel and is a full-featured operating system.

Unlike other operating systems, such as Windows or OS X, Linux is free to use. It is supported by a large community that offers forums and resources for troubleshooting and learning new skills. It is also a popular choice for server environments and powers a large percentage of the Internet.

Linus Torvalds developed the Linux kernel in 1991 while a student at the University of Helsinki. It was designed to run on computers using Intel microprocessors. He developed it after becoming frustrated with the limitations of Minix, a cheap Unix-like computer operating system that he was using at the time.

Today, Linux is a mature, reliable, and stable operating system. It runs well on desktop PCs, servers, and embedded devices. It has a wide variety of software programs available, from word processing to video editors and everything in between. It also has a good reputation for security.

The Linux ecosystem is diverse and has been built by thousands of developers and users worldwide. Its flexibility and adaptability make it an ideal platform for developing applications, operating systems, and other services. Linux supports most programming languages, allowing developers to create applications for a variety of different systems and platforms. The kernel supports a wide range of hardware, including memory, disk, and display adapters. It also supports networking protocols, which makes it easy to use with a wide variety of networked devices.

Many major PC manufacturers pre-load Linux on their desktop and laptop computers. This allows them to offer a more comprehensive warranty and support package than is typically offered with an operating system sold by the software vendor. For example, ME2 offers custom Dell OptiPlex 3090 Desktops that are professionally upgraded and shipped with Linux, and they offer a one-year warranty.

Linux works on most PCs that are currently in production. However, some specialized or proprietary hardware may require driver updates to work properly. Also, some older proprietary software may not be available in Linux versions or will require workarounds to run.