The Basics of Linux

What is Linux?

  1. Kernel, Not OS: Linux is actually a kernel, which is the core part of an operating system. It manages the hardware, memory, and processes. The term "Linux" is often used to refer to the whole operating system, but technically, the Linux kernel itself is not a full OS.
  2. Not a Unix Derivative: Unlike many other operating systems that evolved from Unix, Linux was written from scratch by Linus Torvalds in 1991. It was inspired by Unix principles but developed independently.
  3. Linux Distributions: A Linux distribution (distro) is a combination of the Linux kernel and a collection of software that together create a full operating system. This includes system tools, libraries, and applications. The GNU Project provides many of these additional tools, making the complete system often referred to as GNU/Linux.

Features and Advantages of Linux

Open Source

  1. Open Source: Linux is open source, which means its source code is freely available to anyone. People can inspect, modify, and enhance it. This transparency fosters a large community of developers who continually improve the software.

Security

  1. Very Secure: Linux is known for its robust security. Viruses and malware are less common on Linux than on other operating systems like Windows. Even if a virus gets into a Linux system, it typically can only affect the user's local files and not the entire system, thanks to Linux's strong permission and user management system.

Updates and Efficiency

  1. Simplified Updates: Updating Linux and all installed software can be done with a single click or command. This streamlined process keeps the system secure and up-to-date without much hassle.
  2. Lightweight: Linux can run on older hardware with minimal resources, making it a great choice for extending the life of older computers or using lightweight distributions for specific purposes.

Multi-user and Multitasking

  1. Multi-user and Multitasking: Linux can handle multiple users and tasks simultaneously, which is why it is widely used on servers. Each user can have their own account and workspace, all while the system runs multiple tasks in the background efficiently.

Interfaces and Customization

  1. CLI Interface: Linux offers a powerful Command Line Interface (CLI) that allows users to perform tasks by typing commands. This can be more efficient and powerful than graphical interfaces for many users.
  2. Multiple Distributions: There are many Linux distributions available, each tailored to different needs. Whether you need a user-friendly desktop environment, a lightweight system for an old computer, or a powerful server, there's a Linux distro for you.

Space and Resource Management