Linux is the universal OS (Operating System), the El Dorado of the gold seekers, and the biggest surprise is that it is FREE. Not just in costs such as software package price, licensing and updates, but is even FREE in access to, and manipulation of, the main Source Code. A vast majority of communication device Users the world over use some form of Linux or another. What started in the mid-90’s as a platform for the underprivileged has now become the center of focus, leaving Closed OS like iOS well behind for popularity and usage. In fact, more and more apps are being developed for Linux. Everything from games to adult apps. Click Here to see an adult dating site that is Linux based. With all that being said the question, “What is Linux?” — is therefore worth investigating.
At The Heart
Linux lies behind the most popular OS on the Planet, the Android, which powers the vast majority of the smart phones on earth. Linux OS manages the hardware resources associated with almost all the PC’s, except Mac (which belongs to the Apple Group). The OS has several components, as follows:
- Bootloader “boots” the PC, a major task, though all that the User sees is a splash screen that eventually fads away.
- Kernel manages the CPU, Memory and Peripheral Devices of the PC.
- Graphical Server is often called the X Server, and manages the graphics on the screen.
- Daemons manage printing, scheduling , sound etc. (background services)
- Init System controls the Daemons and bootstraps the User Space, after the initial booting by the Bootloader.
- Desktop Environment interfaces with the actual User, and contains built-in applications such as web browsers, file managers, configuration tools etc. Examples are GNOME, Enlightenment, KDE etc.
- Applications number many thousands or even more in Linux, as complete battalions of Users use the FREE OS to develop their own Apps. There are even Apps to search and locate needed Apps, like Ubuntu Linux.
OSS
Linux is an OSS, which means it has ZERO entry cost. Not just the software package, but also the cost of Client Access licensing. Linux is also far less vulnerable to attacks from malware, ransom-ware and common virus. The absolute freedom to run the Linux system for any purpose comes with the OS. Modifications can be freely done to the original OS, and copies of Modified Programs sold freely.
Distribution
Versions of Linux distributions, or “distros”, are generally free also, and match every requirement. Some distros commonly used are UBUNTU, ANTERGOS, DEBIAN, SOLUS, FEDORA, and so on. The Server is also focused on, and distros for this purpose are the commonly used Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Centos, Ubuntu Server and so on.
Installation
Installation of Linux systems are also user dependent. Beginners are welcome to try UBUNTU, to sharpen their claws. Linux Mint is also fairly basic. Debian or Fedora is for the mid range skilled User. For advanced server distros, CentOS provides all the necessary commands.
Linux Universal
What is Linux? — is no longer the common question asked of the Fans. Linux is now well and truly universal. Resources are being multiplied almost daily by enthusiastic fans, many of whom are dedicated to the unique and inexorable advance of Linux.…