What is Linux?
The name linux may be unfamiliar to some, but it is an operating system that powers many computers and devices in the world. It runs the majority of the Internet servers, most smartphone apps and devices, most cellular networks and Roku systems, and is also used for home desktops and enterprise networks. It has a reputation for reliability and cost efficiency, which makes it an ideal choice for network servers.
While Linux was initially used only for scientific research and by people who had extensive computer programming knowledge, it gained popularity quickly. It has since evolved into a robust, full-fledged operating system that can do just about anything. The open source nature of linux means that anyone can contribute to its development and improvement, contributing to its longevity as an operating system.
Linux is a multi-tasking operating system that allows multiple programs to run simultaneously and in parallel on the same machine. It has a kernel, which is the lowest level of an operating system, which controls the CPU, memory and peripheral devices. It also has an init system, which bootstraps the user space and is charged with starting daemons (system services).
There are many different versions of Linux, each tailored for specific needs. These different flavors are known as distributions, and they can be downloaded for free and burned onto a disk or USB stick to install on an entire computer, or on individual machines. The different distributions offer a wide variety of graphical interfaces and software packages for use on a desktop. Some of these packages include word processing, photo and video editing applications, and similar software.
Some distributions of Linux are designed for businesses, with features such as a database server or support tools for larger numbers of installations. These specialized business versions are known as Enterprise Linux, and they differ from the mainline version in that they require a license for use.
The different versions of Linux are supported by a large community, and also by companies such as Canonical and SUSE, which provide commercial support. They are also compatible with the free software licenses that the kernel itself is written under, and they are usually compatible with one another.
As the number of Linux users grows, it will likely continue to grow as a popular operating system. It is flexible, reliable and highly customizable, making it an ideal choice for server operations and for people who want to control their own computers. It is also relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to other server operating systems, making it an affordable option for most consumers. This is likely to keep it in favor as a platform for personal computing, as well. It is the OS behind your smartphone, Roku devices and thermostats, and it is the operating system that runs the Internet’s most powerful supercomputers. It’s a solid, worry-free system that will be around for a long time to come. The wikipedia article on linux has more information about this fascinating operating system.
