What Is Linux and Why Should You Use It?
linux is a computer operating system. It facilitates communication between the user and the computer hardware by interpreting instructions from the user and sending them to the operating system. It also allows users to install software and applications on their computers. Linux is open source, meaning that it is free to use and can be used for any purpose.
Unlike Microsoft Windows, which is proprietary software that requires expensive licenses and is often vulnerable to malware, Linux is free and open source. It is incredibly secure and stable, making it ideal for businesses. In addition, it integrates well with various automation tools, allowing developers and system administrators to streamline their workflows. This is especially important in the DevOps model, where automation is key to increasing efficiency and reducing the scope for error.
Linux is widely used in both consumer and business devices, from Android phones and tablets to digital storage and video cameras. In fact, it runs on most of the world’s computers – including all major cloud computing solutions and home routers. It’s also found in cars and TVs, as well as many IoT devices and servers – and even on some Mac and Windows computers thanks to the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL).
There are thousands of Linux distributions, or “distro,” which differ from each other in the ways they look and act. For example, some are designed to be newbie-friendly and come with a graphical installer, while others have a command line only interface. Some are more stable, while others are more dynamic and feature-filled. Choosing the right distro for your needs is important, and it’s not uncommon to try a few different ones before finding one that fits your preferences.
Having an understanding of how the Linux filesystem works is crucial to troubleshooting problems. The /boot, /dev, /etc, and /var directories contain important information about your system. For instance, /boot contains the kernel, and /dev stores files for every device connected to your computer. The /etc directory contains startup scripts, login files, and configuration settings for various system services. The /var directory stores log files, cache data, and other dynamic data generated during system operation.
Linux supports a wide range of hardware and peripherals, including printers, scanners, and cameras. It’s also compatible with the vast majority of popular programming languages, including Java, C, Python, Perl, and Ruby. This makes it easy for programmers to create and test software for Linux systems and devices.
One of the primary reasons for its popularity is its versatility. Unlike other operating systems, Linux can be run on almost any computer – from mobile devices to mainframes and supercomputers. Its modularity and scalability also make it an ideal choice for enterprise deployments. In addition, it’s highly customizable and provides many features that are not available on other operating systems. For example, Linux includes a security model called SELinux, which allows for visibility into and granular control of application and user access.
