Learn About Linux Operating Systems Free Guide

What Is Linux and Why It Matters

Linux is a free operating system that runs on computers, servers, and many other devices. An operating system is the basic software that makes a computer work—it manages all the other programs and controls how hardware like your keyboard, mouse, and screen function together. Linux was created in 1991 by Linus Torvalds, a Finnish programmer, and has since grown into one of the most important pieces of technology in the world.

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Unlike Windows or macOS, which are owned by Microsoft and Apple respectively, Linux is open-source. This means the code that runs Linux is publicly available for anyone to look at, modify, or improve. Thousands of programmers around the world contribute to making Linux better. This openness has made Linux incredibly reliable and secure. Many of the websites you visit every day run on Linux servers. Banks, hospitals, universities, and government agencies depend on Linux to keep their systems running.

You may already be using Linux without knowing it. Android phones run on Linux. Smart televisions often use Linux. Internet routers, traffic lights, and even spacecraft use Linux-based systems. This widespread use shows how trusted and capable Linux has become over three decades.

The main reasons Linux has become so popular include its stability, security, and cost. Because it is free, organizations save money that would otherwise go to licensing fees. Linux systems can run for years without needing to be restarted. Security vulnerabilities are typically fixed quickly because so many programmers review the code. These qualities make Linux attractive to both individuals and large organizations.

Practical Takeaway: Linux powers much of the internet and countless devices you encounter daily. Understanding what Linux is and why it is widely used provides context for exploring how it might be relevant to your personal or professional interests.

Different Versions of Linux (Distributions)

While Linux itself is the core operating system, it comes in many different versions called distributions or "distros." A distribution includes the Linux kernel (the core engine) plus additional software that makes the system easier to use. Think of it like a recipe: the basic ingredients are the same, but different chefs add their own seasonings and preparation methods to create different final products.

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Ubuntu is one of the most popular distributions for beginners and general users. It was first released in 2004 and is designed to be user-friendly while remaining powerful. Ubuntu is sponsored by Canonical, a company that provides support and updates. The name Ubuntu comes from an African word meaning "humanity toward others." Ubuntu comes in desktop versions for personal computers and server versions for businesses. Updates are released every six months, with some versions receiving support for five years.

Fedora is another widely used distribution, known for including cutting-edge software and features. It is sponsored by Red Hat, a major Linux company. Fedora appeals to users who want the latest technology and do not mind updating their system more frequently. Each Fedora version receives support for about thirteen months. Fedora serves as a testing ground for software that may eventually be included in Red Hat Enterprise Linux, which is used in business and government settings.

Debian is known for stability and a large repository of software packages. It has been around since 1993 and emphasizes free and open-source principles. Debian releases new versions approximately every two years. Many other distributions, including Ubuntu, are based on Debian. Linux Mint is another user-friendly option built on Ubuntu that focuses on simplicity and includes multimedia support out of the box.

For those interested in advanced features and customization, Arch Linux and Gentoo offer more control but require more technical knowledge. CentOS and AlmaLinux are based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux and are commonly used on servers. Raspberry Pi OS is specifically designed for the Raspberry Pi, a small, affordable computer used in educational projects and hobbyist applications.

Practical Takeaway: Different Linux distributions serve different purposes. Identifying which distribution suits your needs—whether you prioritize ease of use, cutting-edge features, stability, or customization—helps guide your exploration of Linux.

How Linux Compares to Other Operating Systems

Linux operates differently from Windows and macOS in several important ways. Understanding these differences helps explain why Linux is popular in certain environments and among certain users. Windows, owned by Microsoft, runs on most personal computers globally. macOS, owned by Apple, runs on Apple computers. Together, Windows and macOS account for the vast majority of desktop computers in homes and offices. However, when looking at servers that power the internet and large organizations, Linux dominates with over 90 percent market share.

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Cost is a major difference. Windows and macOS require users to purchase a license to use the software legally. Linux is free to obtain and use. For individuals, the free cost of Linux is appealing. For organizations managing thousands of computers or servers, the cost savings are substantial. A company operating ten thousand servers saves millions of dollars annually by using Linux instead of a commercial operating system.

Customization and flexibility differ significantly. Linux source code is open and can be modified by anyone. If you know how to program, you can change Linux to work exactly how you want. Windows and macOS are closed-source, meaning their underlying code is proprietary and only employees of those companies can modify it. This openness makes Linux extremely flexible but also means it may require more technical knowledge to customize properly.

Software availability is another consideration. Windows has the largest catalog of consumer software, including games and specialized business programs. Many commercial software developers prioritize Windows. However, Linux has substantial software available, and much of it is free and open-source. For everyday tasks like web browsing, email, word processing, and spreadsheets, Linux offers plenty of options. If you use specialized software that only runs on Windows or macOS, Linux may not work for you.

Security approaches also vary. Linux benefits from having many security-conscious eyes reviewing its code constantly. Threats to Linux exist but are generally less common than threats to Windows, which is targeted more frequently because of its larger user base. However, no operating system is perfectly secure, and all require regular updates and user caution. macOS sits somewhere in the middle, with fewer threats than Windows but more proprietary protection than Linux.

User interface design differs too. Modern Windows and macOS are designed primarily for mouse and keyboard use with graphical interfaces. Linux offers many graphical interfaces but also includes command-line interfaces where users type text commands. Some find the command-line approach more powerful but less intuitive than graphical interfaces.

Practical Takeaway: Linux offers distinct advantages in cost, customization, and server reliability compared to Windows and macOS, though trade-offs exist regarding commercial software availability and user interface design expectations.

Getting Started With Linux: Desktop Installation and Use

Installing Linux on your personal computer is more straightforward than many people think. Most distributions provide installation media—either a USB drive or DVD—that you can create from freely available files. The installation process typically involves booting your computer from this media, following on-screen prompts, and allowing the installer to set up Linux on your hard drive. Many distributions offer detailed guides with screenshots and videos walking you through each step.

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Before installing Linux on your only computer, consider trying it without installation first. Most distributions let you run Linux directly from a USB drive in "live" mode. This approach lets you explore the interface, test applications, and confirm hardware compatibility without modifying your computer. You can restart your computer back to your original operating system whenever you want. This zero-risk method helps you become familiar with Linux.

Ubuntu is frequently recommended for newcomers because its installation process is particularly straightforward. When you boot the Ubuntu installation media, it shows a clear menu with simple options. The installer walks you through selecting your language, keyboard layout, disk partition preferences, and timezone. You create a user account with a username and password, and the system handles the rest. The entire process typically takes fifteen to thirty minutes.

Once installed, the desktop environment is where you interact with Linux. Ubuntu uses GNOME, a graphical interface with a taskbar, application menu, and familiar windows. Other distributions use different desktop environments like KDE Plasma, which resembles Windows more closely, or lightweight environments designed for older computers. Exploring different desktop environments is part of discovering which Linux experience suits you best.

Finding and installing programs in Linux typically involves using a software manager rather than searching the internet for downloads. Ubuntu's Software application displays thousands of programs organized by category. You can read descriptions, see user reviews, and install programs with a single click. Popular applications include Firefox for web browsing, LibreOffice for word processing and spreadsheets, GIMP for image editing, and VLC for video play