Linux is a prevalent Unix-like operating system, created by Linus Torvalds that was initially designed to run on Intel-powered PCs. It is free, open-source software distributed under the terms of the GNU General Public License (GPL). The fundamental component of any operating system is the kernel. Various individuals, groups, and companies create their versions of the operating system (called distributions) by adding utilities and other programs to the kernel. Linux is now available for Apple computers, Alpha workstations, and additional platforms. The development of GUI desktop environments for Linux, such as GNOME and KDE, led some to predict rising use in the end-user market. See BSD, Free Software Foundation (FSF), General Public License (GPL), GNOME, KDE, Samba, Unix.
Technipages Explains Linux
Linux is a group of software that operates like Unix operating software. Linux serves as an intermediary between programs in a computer and transmitting it to the required hardware. Linux is an open-source operating system, Linux’s source code can be viewed and edited by anybody by anyone covered by the GNU General Public License. It is also suitable for contributors who would like to develop the source code, can also be redistributed commercially or non-commercially. Tux, the penguin, is the official mascot of Linux. Linux is a freely available alternative to Microsoft’s Windows.
Linux programs come in packages called “distro” short form for distribution, and the package is CD-ROM and DVDs, they contain the basic operating system kernel and a collection of application software. Linux is believed to execute commands faster than Microsoft Windows. Most applications built on Linux are usually almost free (given away at a small price) or free. Operating systems are not immune to viruses and malware, but due to the small number of Linux Operating system users, no company has developed a virus for Linux operating system.
Linus Torvalds began developing Linux in 1991, and then he was a student at the University of Helsinki in Finland. Minix is a precursor to Linux, which was a UNIX like operating system but was designed for educational purposes. Minix stands for mini UNIX, and it was developed by Andrew Tanenbaum.
Common Uses of Linux
- The coinage of “Linux” was done without the knowledge of Linus, but Linus obliged to it anyways even though he thought “Freex” would have been a better idea.
- Linux’s distro CD-ROMs and DVDs contain the basic operating Linux system kernel alongside other basic programs which can replace basic software being used in the Microsoft.
- The source code for Linux can be viewed and edited by anyone who falls under the GNU General public license’s umbrella
Common Misuses of Linux
- Tux, the penguin, is not Linux’s official mascot, it is Jerry the Rat