INTRODUCTION
In the realm of computing, one operating system has stood the test of time, fostering innovation, customization, and security like no other – Linux. Born in the heart of open-source collaboration, Linux has not only transformed the landscape of server environments but has also become a popular choice for personal computing. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through the basics of Linux, shedding light on its history, features, and why it's more than just an operating system.
HISTORY OF LINUX
The story of Linux dates back to 1991 when a Finnish computer science student named Linus Torvalds embarked on a mission to create a free and open-source Unix-like operating system kernel. This kernel, known as "Linux," combined with the GNU software and various other components, culminated in what we now know as a "Linux distribution" or "Linux distro." This collaboration and open ethos set the stage for an operating system that empowers users to control their computing experience.
FEATURES OF LINUX
Open Source Nature: At its core, Linux is open source, which means its source code is freely available for anyone to view, modify, and distribute. This fosters a sense of community-driven development and innovation.
Diverse Distributions: There are countless Linux distributions tailored to different needs and preferences. Each distribution comes with its own package management system and user interface, offering users a wide range of choices. Some popular distributions include UBUNTU, DEBIAN, RHEL, KALI LINUX, GENTOO, LINUX MINT, ARCH LINUX, CENT OS, and FEDORA.
Customization: Linux provides users with unparalleled customization options. From the desktop environment (such as GNOME, KDE, or XFCE) to software packages, users can mould their Linux environment to suit their workflow and aesthetic preferences.
Stability and Security: Linux is renowned for its stability and security. Due to its Unix-like architecture, it benefits from stringent permission controls, making it less susceptible to malware and viruses. Frequent updates from the open-source community also contribute to enhanced security.
Command Line Interface (CLI): While modern Linux distributions come with user-friendly graphical interfaces, the CLI remains a powerful tool for advanced users. The terminal provides direct access to the system, enabling efficient system administration and automation.
Server and Embedded Systems: Linux dominates the server market, powering a significant portion of the internet's infrastructure. Its scalability, reliability, and ability to run on various hardware architectures make it a top choice for server environments. Additionally, Linux is used extensively in embedded systems, from smartphones to IoT devices.
EXPLORING LINUX
Choosing a Distribution: Before diving in, you'll need to choose a Linux distribution. Consider your familiarity with Linux, your intended use (personal, server, development), and your preferences for user interface and software management.
Installation: Once a distribution is selected, follow the installation instructions provided by the distribution's official website. You can also choose to install Linux alongside your existing operating system (dual-boot) or on a separate machine.
Basic Commands: Familiarize yourself with essential Linux commands like "ls" (list files), "cd" (change directory), "mkdir" (create directory), and "sudo" (execute commands with superuser privileges). These commands form the foundation of your Linux journey.
Package Management: Learn how to use your distribution's package manager to install, update, and remove software. Commands like "apt" (Debian-based), "dnf" (Fedora), and "pacman" (Arch Linux) are crucial for managing software.
ARCHITECTURE OF LINUX
A computer’s operating system interface to the hardware is referred to as a software application. A number of software applications are run on operating systems to manage hardware resources on a computer.
The diagram below illustrates the structure of the Linux system, according to the layers concept.
The Linux architecture is largely composed of elements such as the Kernel, System Library, Hardware layer, System, and Shell functions.
a) System Libraries: A set of library functions may be specified as these functions. These functions are implemented by the operating system and do not require code access rights on the kernel modules.
b) System Utility Programs: A system utility program performs specific and individual jobs.
c) Hardware layer: The hardware layer of Linux is made up of several peripheral devices such as a CPU, HDD, and RAM.
d) Shell: Different operating systems are classified as graphical shells and command-line shells. A graphical shell is an interface between the kernel and the user. It provides kernel services, and it runs kernel operations. There are two types of graphical shells, which differ in appearance. These operating systems are divided into two categories, which are the graphical shells and command-line shells.
The graphical line shells allow for graphical user interfaces, while the command line shells enable for command line interfaces. As a result, both of these shells operate. However, graphical user interfaces performed using the graphical line shells are faster than those using the command line shells.
LINUX FILE HIERARCHY
The Linux File Hierarchy System (FHS) is a standard directory structure used in Linux and other Unix-like operating systems. It defines the organization of various files and directories on a Linux system and ensures consistency and compatibility between different distributions. The FHS provides a clear separation of system files, user files, and application files, making it easier for users and developers to understand the system layout.
Here is an overview of the main directories in the Linux File Hierarchy System:
/: The root directory and the starting point of the filesystem hierarchy./bin: Contains essential binary executable files that are required for the system to function in single-user mode./boot: Contains files related to the system's boot process, including the kernel, initial ramdisk, and boot configuration files./dev: Houses device files representing physical and virtual devices. These files allow interaction with hardware devices./etc: Contains system-wide configuration files for various programs and services. Administrators can modify these files to customize system behavior./home: Home directories for regular users. Each user typically has a subdirectory here, where they can store personal files and configurations./liband/lib64: These directories hold libraries required by binaries in/binand/sbinas well as essential libraries for the system./media: Mount point for removable media such as USB drives, CDs, and DVDs./mnt: Temporary mount point for mounting filesystems./opt: Used for installing optional software packages. It typically contains self-contained applications or software not managed by the system's package manager./proc: A virtual filesystem that provides information about running processes and system configuration in real-time. It is not a storage location for regular files./root: The home directory of the system's root user./run: A temporary filesystem that holds runtime data related to system processes since the last boot./sbin: Contains essential system binaries that are generally used for system administration tasks./srv: A directory for data that the system serves, such as web server content or user-shared data./tmp: A temporary directory where users and programs can store temporary files./usr: Contains user-specific and read-only data, including application files, libraries, documentation, etc. It has subdirectories like/usr/bin,/usr/lib,/usr/share, etc./var: Contains variable data files like logs, databases, emails, print queues, and other files that may change frequently during the system operation.
ADVANTAGES OF LINUX
Linux is an open-source operating system that has several advantages over other operating systems. Because the code is freely available and anyone may modify it and distribute it, Linux is popular for contributions and modifications.
As far as security is concerned, Linux is much more secure than any other operating system. It does not mean that Linux is entirely secure, however. It is far less vulnerable to infections than any other operating system. There is no need for anti-virus software on Linux.
The Linux software updates are straightforward and frequent.
You can use a Linux distribution of your choice in accordance with your preferences or your needs.
Freely available Linux software is used on the Internet.
Linux has plenty of community support.
The CPU and memory of a computer generally stay stable and do not slow down or freeze. A computer can be rebooted after a short time if it stops or freezes.
The purpose of the application is to preserve the privacy of the user.
Although other operating systems can deliver high performance, Linux excels because it allows a large number of people to work at the same time, and because it manages them efficiently.
The popularity of Linux makes it network friendly.
You do not need to purchase a Linux operating system suit to get the flexibility you want; you may install only the components you need.
Linux is capable of handling a wide range of file formats.
The installation process is quick and easy to use. It also works on old computer systems, making it easy to install.
Even if the hard disk is full, the computer performs properly because it has enough room.
DISADVANTAGES OF LINUX
Some hardware drivers are not available for Linux, which is one of the challenges faced by Linux users. Windows or Mac drivers are preferred by hardware manufacturers because they have more users as opposed to Linux.
Beginners to windows are not difficult to start with, however, learning Linux is a bit challenging. Command-lines and locating new software are also a bit challenging.
🙌CONCLUSION
Linux is more than just an operating system; it's a philosophy, a community, and a testament to the power of open-source collaboration. Its rich history, diverse distributions, customization options, and security features make it a compelling choice for both personal and professional computing needs. As you embark on your Linux journey, remember that the path to mastery might be challenging at times, but the rewards in terms of control, knowledge, and innovation are well worth it. So, whether you're a curious beginner or an experienced user, Linux has something to offer for everyone.
✉ENDCARD
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