A Linux distribution or Linux distro consists of “a collection of open-source software based on the Linux kernel and a package management system.” Each includes the Linux kernel as the operating system foundation, GNU shell utilities for terminal access, and a desktop environment distinguishing one from another.
The first official Linux version launched on October 5, 1991, by Linus Torvalds. Since then, it has grown into “one of the most widely used operating systems in the world,” with its community becoming “one of the greatest forces to the free and open-source software movement.”
What are the advantages of using Linux?
Multiple reasons justify choosing Linux over proprietary systems like Windows and macOS. The open-source community made it “the best servers operating system,” while communities continuously improve the user experience.
Open-source software
The primary benefit is that the software remains free, since “anybody can contribute to the project.” Users avoid complex licensing models from proprietary vendors.
System Security
The “security focus of the Linux system reduces the vulnerabilities.” Every program requires administrator authorization, reducing malware installation risks. Additionally, the publicly available source code allows “security experts to analyze and update any security vulnerabilities,” making the ethical hacker community integral to improving security.
Compatible with Older Computers
Open-source communities design software “with older devices in mind,” enabling low-resource systems to benefit from this free software.
Popular Linux Distributions
Hundreds of community-maintained distributions exist globally. Debian stands among “the longest-standing free and open-source distributions with over 50,000 software packages.” Debian-based distributions include Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Kali.
Commercially-backed distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, and OpenSUSE invest in development by “building a business around it” through services and support.
Popular Linux Distros:
- MX Linux
- Manjaro
- Linux Mint
- Ubuntu
- Pop!_OS
- Debian
- Elementary
- Solus
- Fedora
- Arch Linux
So, Who Can Use Linux?
Linux distributions suit “any user willing to learn a new operating system.” Businesses run servers without graphical interfaces, reducing hardware requirements and boosting performance. The open-source license permits anyone to use, modify, or create custom distributions from source code.
Users can test distributions using VirtualBox virtualization software, taking approximately 15 minutes to try their first distro.
The Bottom Line
Linux represents “a powerful, secure, and fully customizable operating system” with extensive community support. Many companies depend commercially on these open-source alternatives, creating “incentives for the success of the project.”