What’s at Work Underneath the Hood?
Whether you’re using a smartphone, PC, mini computer or tablet, chances are that linux is at work underneath the hood. And that’s a good thing, because Linux powers just about everything that you use today, including social media platforms, websites and your favorite online services.
Unlike Windows or macOS, which are proprietary software packages, most of the components that comprise the Linux operating system are free and open source. This means that you can download, modify and redistribute Linux to suit your needs – and even run it on multiple computers without making any changes to the installed OS. This is one of the main tenets of the Linux community, which is based on the philosophies behind the GNU General Public License (GPL).
In addition to the freely-available kernel and kernel drivers, a number of freely-available software titles have been built to run on the Linux platform. These include a wide range of applications, such as web browsers, office suites and productivity tools, and even games and video-editing programs. Most modern Linux distributions include what most would call an app store, or a set of tools that centralize and simplify application installation. Ubuntu Linux uses the GNOME Software tool, Elementary OS uses its Pantheon, Deepin Linux includes its own centralized software center and openSUSE has its AppCenter.
The Linux kernel is the heart of the Linux operating system. It handles all input and output and manages resources. It also supports various hardware device drivers and can be compiled to include or exclude features to match the needs of specific systems. For example, a custom Linux kernel can be compiled to support a particular type of wireless network card.
Another important aspect of the Linux operating system is its ability to handle real-time tasks. For example, the Linux kernel can be configured to prioritize CPU cycles for tasks that must be completed within a certain time frame. This makes Linux a suitable operating system for embedded devices like automobiles, medical implants and other hardware that must respond to external events or conditions.
A common misconception is that the Linux operating system is difficult to install and use. In reality, it’s easy to get started with Linux. Many Linux distributions offer what is known as a live disk, or a bootable disk that can be used to try the system out without making any changes to your existing hard drive.
In addition, most modern laptops and desktops ship with Linux pre-installed – a great way to try it out and see if you like it. And if you do, you can easily remove the Microsoft Windows installation and replace it with your new Linux operating system of choice. Alternatively, you can purchase Linux computers from companies such as Lenovo and System76 that are designed with the operating system in mind. Or, you can build your own Linux PC. The choices are endless!
