You must have heard of only two operating systems used on PCs, namely - Windows and macOS. These both are used by most people, with Windows securing the first place for many years. Linux may occupy the third spot right now but its market share in desktop OSs is growing rapidly. It has numerous applications - from running on your smartphone to powering huge supercomputers. So what's in it for you to get to know about Linux? Read more to find out why.
What is Linux really?
Linux isn't really an operating system. Many people who have heard about Linux don't know this. Its a kernel - the core component of any OS that acts like a backbone and provides an interface for the hardware. Have you heard of Ubuntu? If you have heard of Linux, you have most likely heard about Ubuntu. Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux based distros (distributions). Every operating system based on the Linux kernel is called a distro.
Linux also has a mascot, a penguin, called Tux! (above)
A little history...
Finnish-American Linus Torvalds is the creator. He is the maintainer of the Linux kernel that gets released every few years. He was working on Linux as a personal hobby and also because he couldn't afford a new system while studying computer science at the Finnish University.
He released the Linux kernel, written in C, on 17 Sep 1991.
Why makes Linux unique?
- The most striking feature about Linux is that it is a FOSS (Free and Open-Source Software). This means anyone can access the source code, make changes to it and redistribute it. You have the freedom to do anything with it. Because of this, there are hundreds of Linux based distros out there with specific features so that users can choose the one that fits their needs.
- Linux is almost safe and secure when compared to other OSs. You don't need to install any antivirus software. This is because of its system architecture. Plus, since Windows is the most popular OS, most malware is targeted for it and not Linux.
- Computer programmers adore Linux. It has support for many programming languages, a wide range of applications and is packed with exciting features. There isn't any reason for them to not love Linux.
- Linux is lightweight, hence it is fast and occupies less storage. Some distros are even aimed at old computers to make them run faster and smoother. It is very easy to install. You can even install the OS in a pendrive and take it anywhere with you. How cool is that?
Where is it used?
As mentioned above, it is used almost everywhere.- PCs
- Android (Yep, its based on the Linux kernel)
- NASA
- Smartwatches
- Servers, mainframes and supercomputers
- Raspberry Pi - The cute and tiny SCB (Single Board Computer)
- Public governments and schools etc.
Now you know how awesome Linux is and why it is important to know about it.
If you're convinced about trying out Linux, go ahead and give it a try. Check out best beginner friendly distros.
Hope you found this information guide helpful. Feel free to comment below.
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