Introduction to Linux

 Introduction to Linux

What is Operating System? 

As per Wikipedia :

An operating system is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and provides common services for computer programs

In simple words :

An operating system (OS) is software that acts as a middleman or a bridge between computer hardware and the computer user. It provides a user interface and controls the computer hardware so that software can function 

 Types of Operating Systems:

1. Desktop Operating Systems, e.g., Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux such as Ubuntu.
2. Server Operating Systems, e.g., Windows Server, Linux distributions like CentOS, Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
3. Mobile Operating Systems, e.g., Android, iOS, Windows Mobile.
4. Embedded Operating Systems used in devices like routers, smart TVs, automobiles, home appliances etc.
5. Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) used in critical systems like medical equipment, car ECUs, aerospace, defense, network firewalls, home security system etc.

What is Linux?

• Linux, in simple terms, is a free and open-source operating system
• It’s similar to Windows and macOS, but it's different in several ways
• Linux is very popular for its stability, security, and flexibility. It can be modified and distributed by anyone, which has led to many different versions, known as "distributions," and each distribution is tailored for different uses
• Its open-source nature means that a community of developers and users contribute to its development

Why Learn Linux or its importance?

• Widely used in servers and cloud computing
• Free software philosophy
• Strong command line interface
• Faster processing
• Enhanced security
• Customization because of open-source nature
• Community support
• Understanding of other operating systems
• Career opportunities.

Linux vs. Unix : 

• Origins and Development:

            ⦾  Unix: Originated in the 1970s at AT&T's Bell Labs. It was developed by Ken Thompson, Dennis Ritchie, and others 

            ⦾  Linux: Created in the early 1990s by Linus Torvalds. It's free and open-source, meaning its source code can be used, modified, and distributed by anyone

• OS Distribution:

            ⦾  Unix: Solaris, HP-UX, AIX. BSD etc.

            ⦾  Linux: Red Hat, CentOS, Fedora, Ubuntu, SUSE, Kali etc.

• Licensing and Cost:

            ⦾  Unix: Generally requires a paid license, especially for commercial use

            ⦾  Linux: Free to use, modify, and distribute

• Community and Development:

            ⦾  Unix: Development and updates are controlled by the owning organization

            ⦾  Linux: Maintained and developed by a global community of developers

• Hardware Support:

            ⦾  Unix: Traditionally supports less hardware variety compared to Linux

            ⦾  Linux: Known for its broad hardware support, including both traditional PCs and servers as well as embedded devices.

 Linux Flavors : 

"Linux flavors" = "Linux distributions" = or "distros" for short

Linux Users :

Linux is used by a wide range of users and organizations due to its versatility,  stability, and open-source nature. 

• Developers
• Educational institutions
• Government agencies
• Enterprise and businesses
• Tech companies
• Cloud and web servers
• Supercomputers and research facilities
• Telecommunications and networking
• Media and entertainment

Linux Vs. Windows