Introduction to Linux

Linux is an open source open source operating system/kernel. It is a Unix-like computer operating system because it is based on the source code of Unix operating system. It was developed by Linus Benedict Torvaldos in October 5, 1991 and is a free operating system designed for servers and other big iron systems such as mainframes and supercomputers due to high security, multi-user, multi-tasking and multi-processing capabilities along with free source code. Linux also runs on embedded systems like mobile phones, tablet computers, network routers, building automatic controls, televisions and video game consoles. To understand let us take an example - Android operating system - which is also based on Linux kernel.

 

Linus Benedict Torvaldos

Let us learn more about Linux like features, most common Linux distributions, commands used etc. Just beginning of the joyride!

Features of Linux:

The following are the features of Linux:

1. Multi-user.

2. Multitasking.

3. Multiprocessing.

4. Secured.

5. Freely available. 

Distributions of Linux:

Linux is available in over 600 different Linux distributions out of which following are most commonly used:

1. Fedora:

A Linux distribution developed by the community-supported Fedora Project and sponsored by Red Hat. 

2. openSUSE:

openSUSE, formerly SUSE Linux and SuSE Linux Professional, is a Linux distribution sponsored by SUSE Linux GmbH and other companies. It is widely used throughout the world.

3. Ubuntu:

Ubuntu is a free and open-source Linux distribution based on Debian. Ubuntu is officially released in three editions: Desktop, Server, and Core. All the editions can run on the computer alone, or e.g. in Windows. Ubuntu is a popular operating system for cloud computing, with support for OpenStack.

4. Mandriva Linux:

Mandriva Linux was a Linux distribution by Mandriva. The last release of Mandriva Linux was in August 2011.

5. Debian:

Debian is a Unix-like operating system consisting entirely of free software. Ian Murdock founded the Debian Project on August 16, 1993. It uses the Linux kernel and other program components obtained from the GNU project. Debian is developed by over 500 contributing programmers who collectively form the Debian Project. 

6. Slackware: 

Slackware is a Linux distribution created by Patrick Volkerding in 1993. Originally based on Softlanding Linux System, Slackware has been the basis for many other Linux distributions, most notably the first versions of SUSE Linux distributions, and is the oldest distribution that is still maintained. 

7. Gentoo Linux:

Gentoo Linux is a Linux distribution based on either Linux or FreeBSD built using the Portage package management system. Unlike a binary software distribution, the source code is compiled locally according to the user's preferences and is often optimized for the specific type of computer. It is a free operating system that can be automatically optimized and customized for just about any application or need. Extreme configurability, performance, and a top-notch user and developer community are all hallmarks of the Gentoo experience. 

8. Puppy Linux:   

Puppy Linux is an operating system and family of lightweight Linux distributions that focus on ease of use and minimal memory footprint. The entire system can be run from RAM with current versions generally taking up about 210 MB, allowing the boot medium to be removed after the operating system has started. It was originally created by Barry Kauler in 2003 and currently developed and maintained by Larry Short, Mick Amadio and Puppy community.