Why You Should Install Linux on Your Computer
Linux is one of the most popular operating systems in use today, used for everything from your home desktop to the largest supercomputers. Developed in 1991 by Linus Torvalds, it is an open source operating system that runs on a variety of hardware platforms and is available in several different distributions.
It’s a free, open-source software platform with zero cost of entry and is built to be incredibly reliable and secure. It’s also incredibly easy to use.
Why should you run a Linux OS?
A Linux operating system is made up of a kernel (the core that controls the device management and memory management for all of your devices) and a software manager that includes hundreds of applications to run on a networked server or on your personal computer. These software managers are not like an “app store” where you can download free apps from the internet; instead, they host their own repositories of compiled software that is tested and provided by your distribution.
Kernel
The core of a Linux operating system is the kernel, which runs all of your devices, handles the memory management and manages how data is shared between processes. This is what makes Linux so powerful and stable compared to other operating systems.
Many Linux distributions also come with a graphical user interface, which is similar to what you’d find on Windows or macOS. This is called a desktop environment, and it usually includes a set of default programs for managing files, editing text and running command-line sessions.
There are several well-known desktop environments, including KDE and GNOME. Both of these have their pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right one for you.
Linux can be installed on almost any type of computing device, including PCs and laptops, as well as servers. It is an ideal platform for a wide range of applications, from basic office and multimedia software to enterprise-level applications.
It’s also an excellent platform for specialized hardware and networking equipment, from wireless routers to virtualization solutions and firewalls. In fact, some Linux distros are designed specifically for these types of hardware, making them an ideal choice for enterprises looking to cut costs on expensive, specialized gear.
The Linux operating system is free and open source, which means that anyone can download the code from the official websites and use it as they see fit. This freedom to study and alter the operating system allows Linux users to customize the platform to their exact needs.
Another benefit of using a Linux operating system is the low cost of support. Although Linux is available for free, most distributors charge a minimal fee for support contracts.
If you have an old Pentium II computer lying around, or even a newer model that’s just gathering dust in your closet, consider installing Linux on it to see how much fun it can be. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can learn to use it and how much it can help you.
