What is Linux

What is Linux Operating System? Introduction to Linux OS

LINUX refers to both an operating system and its kernel, both of which are distributed with open-source licences. The functionality list is very similar to that of UNIX. The kernel is a programme that sits at the centre of the Linux operating system and is responsible for managing essential aspects of the system, such as facilitating communication between software and hardware.

Why do you need an OS?

When you turn on your computer, you are presented with a screen that allows you to engage in a variety of activities, such as writing, surfing the internet, or watching a video. What exactly is it that causes the computer hardware to function in such a manner? How does the CPU on your computer recognise that you want it to play an MP3 file when you ask it to do so?

In any case, the operating system or the kernel is the component responsible for carrying out these tasks. Therefore, in order to use your computer, you will need to install an operating system (OS). You are, in point of fact, utilising one right now as you read this on your computer. Now, you may have worked with well-known operating systems such as Windows or Apple OS X; nevertheless, in this lesson, we will learn an introduction to the Linux operating system, a general overview of Linux, and the advantages that Linux has over other OS options.

Who created Linux?

Linus Torvalds, while a student of computer science, is credited with having the idea that would later become Linux, an operating system or kernel. Torvalds was an exceptionally intelligent young man. He had experience working on the UNIX operating system (a form of proprietary software) and believed that it could require some enhancements.

However, the developers of UNIX did not take his proposals into consideration, so he began to consider developing an operating system that would be open to adjustments and alterations that were made by its users.

History of Linux

Therefore, in 1991, Linus developed a Kernel that he dubbed Linux. However, in order for it to run, he would want apps such as a file manager, document editor, and audio and video programmes. Something as though you were holding a cone but there was no ice cream on top of it.

As time went on, he worked together with a number of other programmers at institutions such as MIT, and eventually, applications for Linux began to emerge. It wasn’t until about 1991 that the first version of the Linux operating system, complete with a few programmes, was made available to the public. This marked the beginning of what has become one of the most popular and open-source operating system options available today.

Because the early versions of the Linux operating system were designed for use by computer programmers, they were not very friendly to end users. Linus Torvalds never intended for his product to be sold commercially.

This resulted in a significant decline in Linux’s popularity during the same time that another, more commercially focused operating system, Windows, rose to prominence. Despite this, the fact that the Linux operating system is open-source contributed to its increased durability.

Linux gets its due attention

The fact that programmers were able to develop their own unique operating systems using the Linux Kernel was the primary benefit of Linux. Over the course of time, a wide variety of operating systems that are pleasant to users emerged on the market. Linux is currently one of the most popular and frequently used Kernels, and it serves as the foundation for a number of well-known operating systems, including Debian, Knoppix, Ubuntu, and Fedora. However, this is not the end of the list because there are thousands of different versions of the Linux operating system that are based on the Linux Kernel and each one provides a different set of capabilities to the users.

The GNU project, which was founded by Dr. Richard Stallman, is typically utilised in conjunction with the Linux Kernel. There is no such thing as a modern Linux distribution that isn’t really a Linux/GNU distribution.

Benefits of Linux

The Linux operating system (OS) is currently at the height of its popularity, and it is well-known not only among computer programmers but also among average computer users all over the world. Its primary advantages are as follows:

It provides a free operating system for anybody to utilise. You won’t have to spend a small fortune on the operating system like you would with Windows!

Operating System Based on Linux
Because it is open-source, anyone who knows how to programme can make modifications to it.
Linux may be learned quickly and easily by novices.
There are now millions of programs/applications and Linux softwares available for use with Linux operating systems, the vast majority of which are offered at no cost.
After you have installed Linux, you will no longer require an antivirus programme. Linux is a platform that offers exceptional safety. In addition to this, there is a global development community that is consistently searching for new ways to improve its safety. The operating system gets more reliable and secure with each new update.
Because of its dependability and consistency, the operating system of choice for server environments is the open-source Linux (Mega-companies like Amazon, Facebook, and Google use Linux for their Servers). A server that runs Linux could operate continuously for years on end without requiring a restart.

Is it for me?

Users who are new to Linux typically avoid using it because they have the mistaken impression that it is a difficult and technical operating system to operate. However, to tell you the truth, Linux operating systems have become a lot more user-friendly in recent years than their counterparts like Windows, so trying them out is the best way to determine whether or not Linux is right for you.

There are thousands of Best Linux Operating Systems and Linux softwares accessible, all of which are based on the Linux Kernel. The majority of these systems provide cutting-edge protection and applications, and they do it completely free of charge.

This is what Linux is all about, and now we will proceed to discussing how to install Linux and which distribution would be best for you to use.

Then Why Linux?

UNIX is often referred to as the “mother” of operating systems because it provided Linux with its basis. Unix is a popular operating system that is used mostly on mainframes in businesses, as well as in academic institutions. Although Linux is quickly becoming a familiar brand in the world of computer consumers, software developers, and server environments. It’s possible that you’ll have to pay for a Unix kernel, but Linux kernels are always free.

However, the commands that are utilised on each of these operating systems are, for the most part, identical. The differences between UNIX and Linux are not significant at all. Although at first glance they might appear to be two distinct things, they are, in fact, rather similar. Given that Linux is an exact replica of UNIX. Learning one is therefore equivalent to learning another.

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