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Introduction to Linux

What is Linux?

Linux is a free and open-source operating system kernel that serves as the foundation for numerous Linux distributions (commonly referred to as "distros"). It was developed by Linus Torvalds in 1991 and has since become one of the most significant and widely used operating systems worldwide. Initially started as a hobby project, Linux today powers critical IT infrastructures, including web servers, supercomputers, mobile devices, and embedded systems.

What is a Kernel?

The kernel is the core component of an operating system. It manages hardware resources and facilitates communication between software and hardware.1

Key Features of Linux

Linux stands out from other operating systems due to several key characteristics:

    Open-Source and Free
  The source code of Linux is publicly available, allowing anyone to view, modify, and distribute it. This fosters innovation and ensures a transparent development process.2

    Multi-User & Multi-Tasking
  Multiple users can work on a Linux system simultaneously while efficiently handling numerous processes.

    Security and Stability
  With strict user permissions, built-in firewall systems, and regular updates, Linux is considered one of the most secure operating systems.3

    Customizability & Flexibility
  Users can configure their system according to their needs, whether by choosing a specific desktop environment or modifying configuration files.4

    Strong Community Support
  A global community of developers and enthusiasts continuously improves Linux, offers support, and creates new software solutions.5

Did You Know?

Many supercomputers and cloud platforms run on Linux due to its high performance and scalability.

The History of Linux

Linux was created as an alternative to proprietary Unix systems and was heavily influenced by Unix philosophy. Some key milestones in Linux’s development include:

    Unix as an Inspiration
  Unix, developed in the 1970s, provided the conceptual foundation for Linux.6

    The GNU Project & Free Software
  The GNU Project, launched by Richard Stallman in 1983, laid the groundwork for free software.7

    Release of the Linux Kernel (1991)
  Linus Torvalds released the first version of the Linux kernel as open-source software in 1991.

Linus Torvalds' Original Usenet Post (1991)

Hello everybody out there using Minix –

I’m doing a (free) operating system (just a hobby, won’t be big and professional like gnu) for 386(486) AT clones. This has been brewing since april, and is starting to get ready. I’d like any feedback on things people like/dislike in minix, as my OS resembles it somewhat (same physical layout of the file-system (due to practical reasons) among other things).

I’ve currently ported bash(1.08) and gcc(1.40), and things seem to work. This implies that I’ll get something practical within a few months, and I’d like to know what features most people would want. Any suggestions are welcome, but I won’t promise I’ll implement them 🙂 Linus

PS. Yes – it’s free of any minix code, and it has a multi-threaded fs. It is NOT portable (uses 386 task switching etc), and it probably never will support anything other than AT-harddisks, as that’s all I have :-(.

Linus Torvalds

Why Use Linux?

Linux is the preferred choice in many fields, particularly in professional IT environments. The key areas where Linux excels include:

    Servers
  The majority of web servers run on Linux due to its high stability and security.8

    Development & Programming
  Linux provides a powerful command line, a flexible file system, and a wide range of development tools.9

    Networking & Cybersecurity
  Many penetration testing and network monitoring tools are specifically designed for Linux.10

    Embedded Systems & IoT
  Linux is widely used in smart home devices, routers, automotive software, and more.11

Conclusion

Linux is a highly versatile operating system that offers numerous advantages for both beginners and experts. Whether for server management, software development, network security, or embedded devices, Linux has virtually unlimited applications.

  1. The kernel is the core of an operating system and manages processes, memory, and hardware. ↩

  2. Open-source principles promote transparency and security, as anyone can review the code. Learn more at the Open Source Initiative. ↩

  3. Linux provides built-in security mechanisms such as SELinux, AppArmor, and strict user permissions. ↩

  4. Desktop environments like GNOME, KDE, and XFCE allow for different user experiences. ↩

  5. Linux communities such as the Arch Linux Forum and Ubuntu Forums offer support. ↩

  6. Unix is a precursor to Linux and is still used in enterprise environments today. ↩

  7. The GNU General Public License (GPL) is one of the most important licenses for open-source software. ↩

  8. Linux-based web servers dominate the internet due to their scalability and security. ↩

  9. Package managers like APT (Debian) and Pacman (Arch Linux) simplify software management. ↩

  10. Kali Linux and Parrot Security OS are specialized distributions for security professionals. ↩

  11. Linux is used in devices such as Raspberry Pi, routers, and smart TVs. ↩