👉 Overview
What ?
Linux is an open-source operating system modeled on the UNIX system. To understand Linux, one must first understand the concept of an operating system (OS). An OS is a software that manages all of a computer's hardware resources, such as its processor, memory, disk space, and peripherals, and provides services for other software. Linux, as an OS, provides a platform for applications to run on, and manages hardware resources for these applications. Its open-source nature means that its source code is freely available to the public, allowing anyone to view, modify, and distribute it.
Why ?
The importance of Linux lies in its open-source nature, versatility, and robustness. Because it's open-source, Linux is highly customizable, allowing users to modify it to suit their specific needs. It's used in a wide range of applications, from servers and supercomputers to embedded systems in devices like smartphones and TVs. Linux also has a reputation for being highly stable and secure, making it a popular choice for servers and other critical applications. Understanding Linux can be beneficial for anyone working in IT or who has an interest in open-source software.
How ?
To start using Linux, one would typically download a distribution (or 'distro') of Linux, which is a version of Linux packaged with additional software. Some popular distros include Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora. After downloading a distro, it can be installed on a computer, either as the primary OS or alongside another OS in a dual-boot setup. Once installed, Linux can be used much like any other OS, with a graphical user interface for everyday tasks and a command-line interface for more advanced operations. Many resources are available online for learning how to use Linux, including tutorials, forums, and documentation.
When ?
The development of Linux began in 1991 when Linus Torvalds, a Finnish student, started working on his own operating system kernel. This kernel, combined with the GNU system's software, resulted in the fully functional OS now known as Linux. Linux has been in use since its early development stages, with the first official release (Linux 1.0) coming out in 1994. Since then, it has been adopted by individuals, organizations, and companies worldwide, and has grown into one of the most popular operating systems in use today.