Introduction to Linux
Have you ever seen that cute penguin? If yes, you have seen Linux.
“But wait, is even Linux really? The hardware? OS? Brand? The guy’s name?”
Let me explain!
What is Linux?
Linux was originally a kernel made by Linus Torvalds in 1991. A kernel is the core program of an Operating System. If an OS is a car, think of the Linux kernel like a car engine.
Linux is released under the Free Software license of GNU GPL2. Users are given the freedom to run, study, modify, and redistribute the source code. This means that anyone can use the “engine” to create a “car” thus, Linux family was born.
As for the individual Linux OS, they are called, “Linux distributions” or Linux distro in short. Linux alone can be used to talk about Linux individually, however.
Each Linux variants are configured with various apps to suit different users needs. In other words, they are aimed at different users niche.
- Are you an aspiring “hacker”? Wanna “hack” like Eliot from Mr.Robot? Kali Linux is for you!
- Do you miss Windows and wish for a Linux that look like one? Try Linux Mint!
- “No, I’ll use whatever popular that works out of box.” Well, Ubuntu it is.
There are many more distros out there that would be too long to list here. If you are curious, go check Distro Watch.
So, Linux can refer to a kernel, an individual operating system, even an entire family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use Linux?
Linux lets you to personalize your computer however you want. It is also resource efficient and you can get involved in the development. Read More