Why Linux Is a Powerful Option For Developers and DevOps Professionals

The linux operating system is a free and open source software platform that is available for desktop computers, laptops, tablets, IoT devices, and servers. It is also the primary OS used in supercomputers. As technology evolves, linux adapts and remains a powerful option for developers and DevOps professionals.

Several different companies and organizations produce linux distributions that cater to specific needs. Some of the larger ones include Red Hat (RHEL/CentOS/Fedora), Canonical (Ubuntu), and SuSE. Additionally, there are thousands of other smaller and niche linux options that can be found on websites such as distrowatch. It is important to research these choices and determine which one best suits your unique requirements.

Linux provides a user interface that can be accessed through command line applications and/or graphical user interfaces (GUI). It is an extremely flexible platform that allows users to customize their computing experience. Additionally, it is highly compatible with hardware. Taking the time to verify hardware compatibility before installing Linux can reduce potential issues. The linux platform is very efficient and can handle numerous processes simultaneously.

Most linux platforms provide a range of applications for users to install and use. This includes a wide variety of productivity, development, and personal software programs. In addition, most linux platforms feature tools that simplify and centralize application installation. These tools are similar to those used on macOS and Windows.

Many linux platforms are customizable to match the user’s preferred look and feel, and their underlying code is open source. This allows developers to understand how the OS operates and make changes to meet their specific needs. This flexibility is a key reason why so many individuals and businesses choose linux for their computer and server environments.

The Linux kernel is the core of the operating system. It performs basic tasks like managing memory, executing instructions, and controlling the hardware. It can also be modified and extended to support a wide range of uses.

For example, the linux community has created kernel modules to support new hardware and features like wireless networking and graphics. The kernel is a critical component of most modern systems because it determines how data is stored and retrieved.

Regardless of your experience level, you can learn to operate linux with a few simple steps. The easiest way to do so is to download a linux distribution and use an application like Etcher or Rufus to create a bootable USB drive. Once you have your distribution, you can follow the on-screen instructions to partition the hard drive and install the system.

Once you have a stable version of linux installed, you can start exploring the possibilities for your machine. Most users find that linux is very easy to learn and use once they familiarize themselves with the basics. It is recommended that newcomers begin with Ubuntu or Linux Mint, which are frequently cited as being easy to use and provide an intuitive interface.

As with any operating system, there are some disadvantages to using linux. One is that it often requires more command-line skills for system administration duties. This can be intimidating for those accustomed to graphical user interfaces. Additionally, Linux has a steeper learning curve than other operating systems like macOS and Windows. Nevertheless, taking the time to learn these skills will allow you to configure and control your system as needed.